How to Use a Martingale on a Saddlebred

Saddlebreds are distinctly known as the peacocks of the show ring, characterized by their long necks, fine facial features, strong legs and the elegant way in which they hold their tail. A Saddlebred horse that throws their head too much not only looks messy in the ring, it's also likely that they are not being sensitive to the subtle commands that a rider gives with their hands and reins. Used correctly, a martingale can help a Saddlebred horse keep their head down and alert to the rider's cues.

Things You'll Need

  • Martingale
  • Saddle, with girth
  • Bridle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consult with a horse vet and equine dentist to diagnose any health-related motives that are causing your Saddlebred to throw their head. If your horse is tossing her head out of discomfort or pain, a martingale will only camouflage the underlying problem.

    • 2

      Choose a standing (or tie-down) martingale for active sports, like polo or cross-country racing.

    • 3

      Stand in line with your Saddlebred's left shoulder, facing the same direction as he is. Open the loop of the martingale and hold it so that the shorter of the two straps is facing toward the horses head.

    • 4

      Bring the loop of the martingale over the horse's head and slip it down, so that it rests above their withers.

    • 5

      Direct the longer strap between the Saddlebred's front legs, thread the girth through the small loop at the end of the strap and fasten the girth to the saddle as you normally would. Check for any twists in the martingale and make sure it runs directly through the center of the horse's legs.

    • 6

      Take the loop at the end of the smaller martingale strap. Feed the nose band strap of the bridle through the loop and secure the nose band as usual.