Horseman/woman Question?

Question

Do you believe in using a hackamore on a green horse? I have a gelding that only has 2 months training on him, but I would like to use a hackamore instead of a bit. Do you think I should keep him in a bit longer, until he has the basics down a lot better? I just personally don't care for bits.

Answer 1

Hi. I have been training and working with horses for 20 years. I've come across this dilemma myself and have discussed it with my collegues. It comes down to personal choice, the field you are going to ride him in and if you are going to sell him on later.

Different fields have rules for example in pony club events a horse must have a bit in its mouth with reins attached while in say endurance as  long as the horse is responsive you don't have to wear one. And remember that most people still expect a horse to respond to a bit if you are deciding to sell.

To cut a really long story short, if he turns, stops and goes with the bit now, you can quite happily move him into a hackamore (it does have a mechanical action) or a bosal type (gentle nose pressure think halter with reins) or even one of those newish bitless bridles that are on the market now(works on guiding the head similar to a bit but with flat pressure and can ride english style very easily in it)

Go with your heart and watch your horse, if he looks comfortable go for it if he seems nervous back up a step to what he knows and try again. I personally don't like bits and will ride in a halter/bosal wherever possible unfortunately the fields I like insist on having a horse bitted so I work with mullen mouth snaffles when I go out.

Answer 2

hackamores are not a good tool for green horses untill they have been taught the basics with a snaffle not only for your safety but the safety of the horse.when training one of my horses i wont move on to another progression in training untill they prove they are well versed in the bit they are in and behave properly in hand.