Harsher Snaffle?

Question

My pony is currently using a D-Ring snaffle, but I would like to use a harsher snaffle or bit that would improve her responsiveness in arena work and western gymkhana. What should I get?

Answer 1

Your bit is most likely not the problem. You have to know how to use a snaffle, hold one, pull the other - never both at the same time.  If you are not getting a response go back a few steps in her training and start over.  Harsher bits will just cause you problems further down the road - especially doing gymkhana.

Answer 2

If you have soft enough hands you could try a 3 ring snaffle also known as a Dutch Gag.

Set it on the softest setting to start with and then move it down if you need to.

Good luck!

Answer 3

It's not about the horse responding to the bit, it's about the horse responding to you. Moving to a harsher bit is going to do more damage than good. What do you think will happen once you move to a harsher bit and your horse becomes " less responsive" then? You'll move to an even harsher bit. Find out what you're doing to cause her to be not-so-responsive, and change it. You are only supposed to move to higher-level bits once you and your horse are ready, and an unresponsive horse and a person who thinks they need a bit to fix it is not ready.

Answer 4

D - ring what? The dee describes the part outside her mouth, but what is in her mouth? Is it super mild - like a french link? or is it harsh - like a double twisted wire? I'm sorry, but this is my personal pet peeve. "Snaffle" includes hundreds of different bits, some nice, some not so nice. Please be more specific!

Answer 5

A harsher bit does not solve problems, it sounds like your pony just needs more training,and more respect for you,as a matter of fact sometimes putting a harsher bit to use can make the problems worse, start with more ground work, then get back in the saddle when your pony is more willing and responsive .we have taken in horses that were "problem" horses that people said couldn't be controled or didn't mind the bit and within a few weeks these horses were riding with just halter, all due to ground work and earning the horses trust.

Answer 6

It doesn't sound like the bit is the problem.  She needs training and to be taught to be respectful on the ground as well as under salddle.  Just make sure you are using the snaffe properly - one rein at a time - not two.  Using two reins on a snaffle sends the joint stabbing into the soft palate of the horse and the sides are like a nutcracker on the bars in his mouth.  The bit is fine, you just need to get restarted on some basics to help communicate to your horse what you want him to do.  Have you accomplished lateral and vertical flexion on the ground?  Take some time and help your horse by improving your relationship and letting her know what you want her to do.  The statement that a "problem horse needs a bigger bit" is a falicy.  The horse and rider need an improved level of training.  good luck.