horse gifts
Horse Gifts: ArticlesSelecting the Right Bit Most people do not realize that horses will not accept some bits because of the taste or feel of the material that the bit is made. Such as black rubber or plastic taste bitter to a horse and are hard in the horse's mouth. Also it dries out the mouth and causes the horse to tighten his jaw. Aluminum bits also takes the moisture out of the horse's mouth and is sometimes too light for the horse to place correctly in its mouth. Bits with very high ports and extra long shanks inflect a lot of pain when the reins are in unforgiving hands. Remember that it's a horses' instinct, pain induces fear and fear induces flight. So if your bit is too harsh you will get the opposite effect of what you were expecting. The more pain you inflect, the more fear. The more fear in your horse, the more flight or the faster he will run. Now let's talk about the kinds of bits to consider. Bits with sweet iron mouthpieces are much more acceptable by horses because of its taste. Also sweet iron keeps a horses' mouth moist. When the horses' mouth is moist then the jaw is relaxed and so is the rest of his body. It makes sense that if the horse is relaxed then he will be more willing to work with you and accept your cues. Next look very closely at how a bit signals your horse. There are several signals that a bit can give: pressure to the corners of the mouth, the tongue, the bars, the pallet, the chin groove, and the poll. If you are an English rider then you will want your horse somewhat on the bit and you will look for some type of snaffle. This actually helps your horse balance when he leans on the bit. For the Western rider who wants their horse to ride on a loose rein or "off the bit" it is important that you select a bit that gives "pre-signals or preparatory commands." These signals will warn your horse, much as a yellow traffic light warns you that a red light is coming. They will give your horse a signal before you take hold of the bit. If you develop light, steady hands you can train your horse to respond to just the pre- signals. This will make the riding experience much more pleasant for you and your horse. When you can move your reins with your little finger and feel your horse respond then he is working as a willing partner and you are building a special relationship. As you can see choosing the right bit for your horse is somewhat of a science and you can never learn too much about them. Study hard before you choose one for your horse. If you have to, get professional advice before you buy a bit. Buy quality bits that are well made and are balanced. Enjoy your horse and remember - Never train with your temper Towel
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