Bits for Training Young Horses

When it comes to training a young horse, it is important to get off to the right start. The early days of training can set the tone for the horse's entire riding career, and horse owners need to make sure those first experiences under saddle are positive ones. Choosing the right bit is one of the most critical decisions horse owners can make, and one that will affect the horse for the rest of his life.

  1. Loose-Ring Snaffle

    • A loose-ring snaffle is one of the mildest bits available, and that makes it a perfect bit for starting young horses under saddle. The loose-ring snaffle is also a perfect choice for working with horses who are too young to ride. Horse owners can place a bridle on the horse, remove the reins and simply allow the horse to get used to wearing the bit. The horse can learn to pick up the bit and find a comfortable position, even before it is time to saddle up for that first ride.

    D-Ring Snaffle

    • A d-ring snaffle is similar to a loose-ring snaffle, but unlike the loose-ring snaffle, the sides of the d-ring snaffle are fixed. This provides a little more control and flexibility, without compromising the mildness of the bit. The d-ring snaffle makes an excellent colt starting bit, and it is an excellent introduction bit for any young horse.

    The Bosal

    • Although not technically a bit, the bosal is an excellent tool for working with young hoses. Unlike a bit, the bosal works by placing pressure on the horse's nose. This design can provide a greater level of refinement than can be achieved with a snaffle bit alone. The bosal is generally made of rope or braided rawhide, although there are plastic models as well. When the rider pulls back on the reins, the bosal pushes on the front of the horse's nose, providing the pressure and control needed to stop and turn the animal.

    Tom Thumb Bit

    • Western horses will eventually need to get used to wearing a bit with a shank, and a Tom Thumb bit can be a good introduction to the shanked bit. The shanks on the bit provide leverage, unlike the snaffle which does not include a leverage factor. Like the snaffle, however, the mouthpiece on the Tom Thumb bit is jointed, making this bit a good transition from the plain snaffle to a more advanced shanked bit like a curb.

    Roller Bit

    • There are a number of bits designed with rollers in the middle of the mouthpiece. These roller bits can be excellent choices for a young horse, since they give her a chance to play with the bit by moving the roller around. Many horses enjoy moving the roller around, and the act of mouthing the roller can keep the horse's palate moist.