How to Use a Western Bit on a Horse

Choose an apple flavored snaffle bit for a green horse you are just beginning to train. The taste will help him accept the bit. Look for a jointed snaffle with a wide bar for a sensitive mouth. The wider the bar, the easier the bit is on the horse’s mouth. The general rule is to use the widest bar possible that still allows you to control the horse.

Use a curb bit if you need to amplify the pressure of your movements. The snaffle bits in Step 1 are easier on the horse but the pressure you use is the exact pressure the horse feels. A curb bit features side shanks that act as levers and increase the pressure on the horse. A curb bit is harsh and only professional equestrians who are familiar with the bit should use it, since there is an increased danger of permanent damage to the horse’s mouth.

Fit a Western bit by measuring the distance from each side of your horse’s mouth behind his teeth. The bar should fit comfortably across the mouth and the side rings should fold flat against your horse’s face. If any portion of the rings fits inside the horse’s mouth, the bit is too small. Alternately, if there is a lot of bar extending from the sides of the horse’s mouth and the rings do not fit flat, the bit is too large.

Pay attention to your horse’s movements. Ducking and bobbing his head may indicate the bit is too small. If the bit comes into contact with your horse’s teeth, he may chomp constantly, trying to expel it. In addition, check the tightness of the throat latch. There should be a minimum of three inches of free space in order for the horse to breathe freely.

Take the time to inspect your horse’s bit occasionally and especially if he exhibits unusual head or mouth movements. A bit that is too large may slide back and forth, rubbing the corner of his mouth while a snaffle that is too snug may pinch and make a sore. Run your fingers over every part of the bit, feeling for any rough spots. Old bits with just one rough spot can create a sore in your horse’s mouth.