By definition, a bit is a piece of metal or synthetic material that fits in a horse's mouth and aids in the communication between the horse and rider . It's part of the bridle and allows the rider to connect with the horse via the reins.
Do bits hurt a horse?
Most riders agree that bits can cause pain to horses . A too-severe bit in the wrong hands, or even a soft one in rough or inexperienced hands, is a well-known cause of rubs, cuts and soreness in a horse's mouth. Dr. Cook's research suggests the damage may go even deeper — to the bone and beyond.
What is the purpose of a bit for horses?
The purpose of the bit is for communication and control . In order to achieve communication we need relaxed, confident acceptance of the bit by the horse.
Is it cruel to use a bit on a horse?
Dr Cook considers the bit to be cruel and counterproductive , as it controls the horse through the threat of pain- similar to a whip. In response to this discomfort, the horse can easily evade the bit, positioning it between their teeth or under their tongue, you could therefore be taken for an unexpected gallop.
Do you have to use a bit on a horse?
Yes, it is entirely possible to train a horse to be ridden without a bit right from the early days of its training. ... If you ride your horse at home, out on the trail, or at very small shows where there are no rules regarding bits, and you feel safe with your horse in a bitless bridle, you don't need a bit .
What's the kindest bit for a horse?
One of the most common types of snaffle bit is the eggbutt , which is considered to be the gentlest type of snaffle bit because it doesn't pinch the corners of the horse's mouth. It has an egg-shaped connection between the mouthpiece and the bit-ring.
What is the gentlest bit for a horse?
The gentlest type of snaffle bit is the Eggbutt snaffle . The name comes from the somewhat egg-shaped connection between the mouthpiece and the bit-ring. The mouthpiece of an eggbutt can be made of a variety of materials (as can any bit), including copper and synthetic (either solid or covered).
Can a horse eat with a bit in?
Super Moderator. they can eat w/ a bit in their mouths but if you let them graze they get to where they try to yank the reigns out of your hands to graze whenever grass is near and they also get green slimy mouths and make for a dirty bit....
What does a Kimberwick bit do?
The Kimberwick or Kimblewick bit is mostly used for general riding activities . It provides a mild curb action to help to control a horse or pony that pulls or which requires help from a slight curb action to encourage it to lower its head.
How do I stop my horse from chomping on the bit?
Davis is commonly asked what to do if a horse starts chomping or playing around with the bit in its mouth. “The first thing is to get their teeth checked by a veterinarian,” he says. “After that, loosen the headstall to drop the bit down, and teach them how to carry that bit .”
Are Hackamores better than bits?
The hackamore has more weight , which allows for more signal before direct contact. This allows the horse a greater opportunity to prepare. With a snaffle bit, you can do as much as it takes to get the job done, whereas the hackamore helps you can learn how little as it takes to get the job done.
How do you know if your horse doesn't like a bit?
Your horse throws his head up and down or from side to side at a standstill or when you cue him to move forward, backward, or turn. Possible bit problem: The bit could be causing pain or irritation on the bars (the gum or inter-dental area between the front teeth and the molars) or on the corners of your horse's mouth.
What is the kindest bitless bridle?
Sidepull bitless bridles are widely regarded as the kindest option because they can be very forgiving of busy hands. They fit like a headcollar, with reins attached to rings on the noseband on either side of the face, and apply about the same amount of pressure to your horse's head as one, too.
Where should the bit sit in a horses mouth?
The bit goes over the horse's tongue, not under it . There should be about 2-3 wrinkles at the corners of the horse's mouth when the bit is sitting properly. If the horse looks like it's smiling, the bit is too high. Don't let the bit hang too low either.
How do I choose the right bit for my horse?
To start with consider the thickness . The thinner the mouthpiece, the more your horse will feel the effects of rein pressure. Thinner bits should encourage more of a reaction to contact. Thicker bits are often a good option for young or mouth sensitive horses as they can find the pressure of a thin bit to be sharp.
