How to Measure a Mini Horse for a Bit

Miniature horses are measured for bits just like their larger, full-size counterparts. Minis are used with a harness for driving a cart, and the bit typically used is a snaffle -- a stainless steel bit with a ring in the center of the mouth that works by applying pressure on the tongue and corners of the mouth. The most popular bit for driving is a half-cheek snaffle.



The standard miniature horse measures 34 to 38 inches tall. The head and mouth are proportionately smaller than a pony or horse. Bits for miniature horses come in three sizes: 3 1/2, 3 3/4 and 4-inch mouthpieces.



A bit needs to fit the horse's mouth so it doesn't pinch and the components of the bit work correctly. Never fit your horse with a bit that is too short. A bit should extend one-quarter inch on either side of the horse's mouth.

Things You'll Need

• String
• Marker
• Bridle

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Tie a knot in a piece of string roughly double the size of the horse's mouth. Place the string in the horse's mouth with the knot at one end of the cheek.

   • 2

     Mark the other end of the string with the marker for the measurement end-to-end of the horse's mouth.

   • 3

     Measure the string for the size of the horses' mouth. This may not be the size bit you purchase, however.

   • 4

     Take the string to a store that carries miniature horse tack. Purchase a bit that is roughly one-quarter inch longer on each end than the string.

   • 5

     Fit the bit onto the horse's bridle. Adjust the bridle so there is one wrinkle in the horse's mouth when the bridle is secured. Shorten the bridle a notch if there are no wrinkles, Loosen it If there are more than two wrinkles.

     Check to see that the bit sits comfortably in the middle section of the horse's mouth where there are no teeth.