i just got a horse that the previous owner used a hackamore on. i do not like hackamore's i would prefer to use a bit. i feel i have more control as i think i would need it she is a 10 year old arabian and is some what spookey but she is also very sensitive in the mouth
2007-01-09 16:28:09 · 9 answers · asked by mystic 3 in Pets ➔ Other - Pets
A bit may make you feel you have more control, but it can be a harmful tool for the horse. A bit shouldn't be viewed as a tool for riding but as a reinforcement. If you do get a bit, which is fine, just make sure you don't use your hands too much. Horses naturally pull away from pressure, and a horse who is not used to a bit can be hard-mouthed.
My suggestion is to keep the hackamore on or get a mild snaffle bit. If you find you're constantly out of control or pulling her back, don't blame it on the bit. A stronger bit will make things worse. You'll need to take lessons if you aren't already and hire a professional trainer to help you and your horse strengthen your relationship. Good luck hope all goes well
2007-01-10 08:59:53 · answer #1 · answered by yayme616 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I guess whenever I have bought a horse I always use what it has become accustomed to using whether I like the choice or not. The only exceptions have been when the device has been too harsh or doesn't provide the control needed.
Being this mare is already 10 yrs. old and has a sensitive mouth, if the hackamore controls her and she's comfortable with it, use the hackamore. She's having to adjust to a new home, it may be good to keep her riding techniques/equipment as familiar as possible to help her flow into the change more easily.
If you absolutely insist on what your comfortable with instead, use a simple snaffle like a training snaffle without a curb strap. Don't use anything with long shanks and be VERY gentle on her mouth. She may not take kindly to the change.
2007-01-10 00:52:47 · answer #2 · answered by BossMare 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Just keep it simple. You don't want to use anything too agressive. Nothing with a shank like a pelham or a tom thumb, nothing that's twisted pointed or to narrow, and nothing with a port. I sugest a simple loose ring snaffle, or an egg butt snaffle. My personal bit of choice is an egg butt Dr. bristol, but try a few and see which your new hrose responds best to. Many tack shops allow you to borrow bits to try, start asking around. And remember the most sever bit is not caused by the piece of metal in the horses mouth, but the hands holding the reins (I forget who said this quote). Happy trails, and congrats on your new horse.
2007-01-10 10:21:55 · answer #3 · answered by auequine 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Definately a Dutch pinchless.
It has two rings to change the angle of the reins and harshness on the horses mouth. It will not slide through the mouth and is effective without being anywhere near as harsh as a hackamore.
I used mine on a draught horse with a hard mouth and a mind of his own.
Be sure to start teaching her voice and leg commands as soon as possible, and spend lots of time doing ground work with her and just letting her follow you around the paddock and get to know you.
Good luck!!!
2007-01-10 07:20:09 · answer #4 · answered by Sparky5115 6 · 0⤊ 2⤋
You should start with a snaffle, just a regular snaffle bit, and if she is sensitive as you say, it should work fine. Just be sure not to over correct her with the bit in, even if she spooks and freaks you out. To get her used to the bit, go out and groom her, but then put the bridle and bit on and walk her around, to get her used to the idea. it will probably take a little time, but you'll be grateful later. :)
2007-01-10 00:36:59 · answer #5 · answered by ranchgirl 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
a good bit- we use this one as a training bit and rarely have to get a harsher one. It is an egg butt or ring snaffle with a broken piece in the middle, small and dog bone shaped.
You do not need a harsh bit, esp if she is sensitive and not used to one- introduce it very slowly as well.
2007-01-10 00:41:39 · answer #6 · answered by D 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I use a tom thumb bit, it is a broken bit which gives you some control but does not hurt the horses mouth. Ask at the feed store they may have some good advice about bits since they talk to a lot of horse people.
2007-01-10 00:35:34 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 3⤋
well it really depends on your style of riding. I suggest using a snaffle with a tongue roller. It is gentle on your horse's mouth but at the same time you still have connection on the reins.
2007-01-10 00:55:43 · answer #8 · answered by Kenzi 2 · 1⤊ 2⤋
How about, "Who's on First?"
2007-01-10 00:32:38 · answer #9 · answered by Yahoo! Avatar 2 · 0⤊ 5⤋