#WATERFORD BIT HOW TO#

It’s critical to teach such a horse to soften and yield to all kinds of pressure, whether in their mouth, on their poll, or elsewhere on their body. Take care not to use severe bits on horses that rear, as they may rear in response to a bit that causes pain or confusion. What is the best bit for a horse that rears? Keep looking for answers with your vet and trainer. If the bucking is caused by pain or confusion, the leverage bit may help keep you momentarily safe, but it won’t address the cause of the problem. Ideally, you’ll be able to work through the problem and return to a gentler bit. Note that this solution is best for horses who buck in an effort to intimidate their rider and get out of work.

Try a Pelham, wonder bit, Kimberwick, or grazing bit. A leverage bit can give you some extra lifting power if the horse still manages to yank the reins from your hands and buck. To prevent a horse from bucking, you’ll need to keep your hands strong and high. What is the best bit for a horse that bucks?Ī horse theoretically cannot buck unless their head lowers.

#WATERFORD BIT HOW TO#

Learn how to do an emergency dismount as well. It can be accomplished in any type of bit. Learn to sharply turn the horse into a one-rein stop as soon as he ignores your cues to slow down – even well before a “bolt.” To execute this incredible maneuver swiftly and forcefully in the heat of the moment, practice, practice, practice. You can also use an emergency stop if you’re in danger. What is the best bit for a horse that bolts?Ī bolting horse cannot be brought under control by pulling straight back on the reins – no matter what type of bit is in its mouth. What is the best bit for a horse that leans?Ī Waterford bit with loose rings is uncomfortable for horses to lean on because they can’t easily grab hold of it. If it continues, practice holding on to the front of the saddle so the horse “self corrects” this behavior. Try a very mild bit like a PeeWee or Mullen mouth, or even a bitless bridle, to see if the problem ceases. Try this bit at Amazon Frequently Asked Questions What is the best bit for a horse that pulls?Ī horse may try to pull the reins from the rider’s hands if the bit is causing discomfort.

Both beginner and advanced riders, with reins adjusted accordingly.

Horses who tend to lift their heads to evade the bit.

Use a curb chain when reins are attached to lowest ring.

Reins attached to lowest rings will apply pressure to the poll.

Reins attached to top rings apply direct pressure to mouth.

Can be used with one set of reins or two.

Your horse will appreciate this, especially during those “oops” moments when you accidentally yank his mouth (it happens)! Popular Bits for Added Control Wonder BitĪlso called a gag bit, the Wonder Bit adds poll pressure to the typical action of a loose ring snaffle. Focus on light hands and gentle aids to improve the horse’s response, and then carry those lessons over to a milder bit. The end goal, however, should be to use a stronger bit on a temporary basis.

Horses who lean on the forehand or buck.

Horses with a tendency to get fast in certain situations (outside the arena, toward jumps, etc.).

Beginner or timid riders matched with a strong (but safe) horse.

A little extra “oomph” doesn’t hurt, however, in situations such as: In other words, if you’re facing a difficult problem with your horse, you probably need to go back to basics.

Complicated bits are meant for well-educated horses.

“Big” bits are for pulling less, not more.

The horse ultimately has to learn to control himself.

When choosing a bit for control, keep in mind these three tips from Warwick Schiller: Parting Thoughts How to Choose a Horse Bit Remember to keep your hands soft and to try other attention-getting strategies – like circling – regardless of which bit you use. Horses are just too big to not listen politely, no matter what.Īs a general rule of thumb, a bit with leverage can often tip the scale back in your direction when you need to regain control.

There’s always more you can do in any situation besides change the bit. In the meantime, check in with a trainer about your power struggle. We can’t always anticipate when we’ll feel out of control in the saddle, but if you’re feeling like your horse is constantly, well, “taking the reins” instead of listening to you, a stronger bit could help him to refocus on you and remember that you call the shots. You might disagree about how many strides you’ll take toward that jump, about the life-threatening danger of that plastic bag, or about when and where to turn. Does your horse have control issues? It may be time for a different bit.ĭo you get into arguments with your horse? It happens.