I bought a 9 yr old paint mare not that long ago. Anyways, previous owner was riding her in a bosal. Her bosal didn’t fit correctly, and I don’t know how to ride in one. Anyways, what’s everyone’s suggestions on introducing a bit? Types? Tricks? She supposedly used to run barrels so I’d assume she’s had a bit in her mouth before. I’ve had her in a d ring but I’m worried she’ll pull it right through her mouth. Her teeth are fine and all that etc. This is a question about bits, thanks!
A rope nose sidepull that lets you add a bit.
At first you just guide with the sidepull, then put a rein on the bit and use both reins, then just guide with the bit. That is the closest thing I’ve seen to Bluey’s grass hackamore.
Then switch to a regular bridle.
I find horses are much more accepting of the bit in warm weather. If you must start bitting in the winter, warm the bit.
Could you call the previous owner and ask what type of bit they were using when running barrels? Maybe you’ll get some stories about how she reacted back then and if there is a reason why they switched to a bosal.
Always be really cautious about changing equipment with horses of unknown history. Especially if you saw that the owner isn’t that knowledgeable (ill fitted tack).
Better be safe than sorry. I would check this horse reaction to a simple eggbut or loose ring on the lunge first. I also do Bluey’s technique when I first introduce bits to youngsters.
What do you mean when you say this?
On a horse that I don’t know the history, I’d start by putting a basic O-ring snaffle on them in the round pen and see what they know and what they don’t know. Then build from there. Treat them like a colt, per se, and so through the same steps.
What makes you worried about this?
She’s worried that too much rein pressure on one side will pull the bit through the mouth leaving her with no bit/control.
#1 Horse should be trained to give to pressure so that you use a very light touch on the reins. You will have to do this before you go out and ride in this bit.
#2 In case of emergency you might need to use a one-rein stop. It’s customary to use a leather curb strap with the bit to prevent it sliding through the mouth.
