How to Start a Horse in a Snaffle Bit

Whether you are starting a horse under saddle or teaching a younger colt or filly to accept a bit, a quality snaffle is the best bit to work with. A snaffle is a gentle way to introduce your horse to the bit and an excellent way to get your young horse off to a great start.

Things You'll Need

  • Quality headstall
  • Snaffle
  • Reins
  • Longe line
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start introducing your horse to the snaffle bit long before it is time to ride. Horses as young as a year old can be introduced to the bit, and this early start can make saddle training a lot easier. After your horse has learned to lead calmly and quietly, you can start to incorporate a snaffle bit into your training regimen. Place a quality snaffle bit in a well-fitted bridle, with the mouthpiece a bit lower than it would be on an older horse. Adjust the sides of the bridle so that the bit hangs loosely--this will encourage the young horse to pick up the snaffle bit. As your horse gets used to the bit, the sides of the bridle can be tightened somewhat, but not to the point where the bridle is too tight.

    • 2

      Place the bridle on over top of the horse's halter, then attach a longe line to the ring on the halter. Encourage your horse to move freely on the longe line, starting at a walk and then progressing to the trot and finally the canter. When longeing your horse, change directions often and encourage the horse to move freely. If you have access to a round pen, you can move your horse around in the round pen instead of using the longe line.

    • 3

      Place the bridle with the snaffle bit on your horse and then slowly introduce the saddle. Though it is better to have introduced your horse to the saddle long before he is old enough to start riding, if not, be sure to take your time when saddling for the first time. It is not unusual for a horse to buck a bit the first time he moves with a saddle on his back. Longeing your horse with the saddle will help him get these bucks out of the way before you climb in the saddle.

    • 4

      Mount your horse carefully, starting by putting a bit of pressure in the stirrup and bouncing up and down. After the horse has accepted the weight in the stirrup, swing up into the saddle in one fluid motion and hold the reins in two hands. Always use two hands when riding with a snaffle bit. Pulling back with a single-handed motion will put too much pressure on the horse's delicate mouth. Carefully pull on one rein and then the other, releasing the pressure as soon as your horse gives to it.