Fixing Your Horse’s Bad Behaviour. Is it the Bit?
Addressing a problem often requires some sort of 2 way communication between the parties. Speak the wrong language and problem resolution will be difficult or even impossible. However when it comes to addressing problems between man and beast just ask any Veternarian, communication takes on a different challenge.
Horses have been ridden for many centuries for business and pleasure and getting the most from the horse has always been a challenge. When we consider professionals in industries such as horse racing there are proven systems that counter the most common issues. However for the average horse owner they often don’t have luxury of training a horse from a very young age. A lot of horses are pre-owned and not only are you inheriting the horse you are inheriting the fall out of possible bad habits of the previous owner.
Getting the horse to behave the way you want mayrequire a little behaviour analysis and sometimes the odd bit of bribery to get your way.
One of the most important aspects of riding is choosing horse bits. The communication between the rider and the horse often relies on trial and error to arrive at a satisfactory outcome and there is a big list of horse behaviours that are highlighted as “bad”. Some of these are often attributable to the wrong bit. Shaking their head, refusing to take the bit, clenching their teeth, being unresponsive due to hard mouths often caused by poor bit choice or riding skills of the previous owner. Maybe the horse has teeth problems so a trip to the dentist may be necessary.
Bit based behaviour issues are addressable. Or at least one should strive to address the common issues. If he refuses the bit maybe you need to try a little cunning. There are a few stories of wrapping the bit’s mouth piece in a “fruit roll” or covering it with molasses to get the horse to associate the bit with a joyful experience! On the subject of taste you can of course buy horse bits with sweet iron mouth pieces or copper snaffles that pander to the tastes of the horse. If he just seems to hate the bit then maybe the bit is just plain wrong. Is it the wrong size? Are you guilty of “over bitting” your horse where for example the shanks on a curb bit for example are to long and just generating too much force even if you ride with light hands. Once size fits all does not apply here .
Check that the bit is wide enough, typically around about half inch each side should ensure it is neither too tight or too loose. Ensure the bit isn’t pinching. Look for sores on the sides of the mouth. The bit should sit loosely in the horse’s mouth after letting down the cheek pieces. Bit guards are an option to reduce this chaffing.
Be aware of the effects of broken bits such as the jointed pelham bit where the bit breaks in the centre. You can also get a nutcracker effect by squashing the tongue and also even hiting the roof of the mouth. These bits are ideal for some horses but not all. Remember the horse may not just be a problem when you pull on the reins. Think about it, if you were expecting a painful jolt at any time whilst you were running around wouldn’t you be somewhat distracted.
If you have the luxury of trying different bits out then do so but also be sure to follow the basic rules. Start of simple with basic snaffles and take it from there. If you are dealing with engrained issues in a pre-owned horse then a bit of scientific trial and error can get you on the right track.
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Tags: equestrian bits, horse bit, horse bits, horse riding