How do you train your horse in a loose ring snaffle?

Question

When I first purchased my horse he was trained to ride in a loose ring snaffle and did very well. Me and my father went and purchased one but it was too big and didn't fit correctly so I just went ahead and started riding my horse in a halter only. I've done this for almost 4 years, and now I'd like to change back to a bit so I have some more control. I don't think I should just tack him up in a bit and try to ride without re-training him. How do you teach a horse in a loose ring snaffle? Also what size should I get sense my last one was to big and it was a 4 inch ring with like a 6 1/2 inch bit piece. I measured from one side of his mouth to the other by going under his chin with a measuring tape and it was 8 inchs. When I went over the top of his nose and to the other side it was 13 inchs, just adding this to see if it helps any.

Also should I get a loose ring snaffle made out of copper? I heard it softens the horse's mouth, but does this have a draw back? Like would the horse be more likely to rear if you pulled back to hard, even on accident?

Answer 1

You can't measure for a bit by measuring the nose or chin. There's one measurement that counts and one only - the actual width of the mouth. A 6.5" bit would fit a draft or very large WB, the average size bit is 5".

Copper encourages salivation. Sweet iron is supposed to do the same thing. A horse that gives easily ("soft" mouth) isn't more likely to rear, but that fact you even asked scares me a bit.

If you're worried about pinching, why not get an eggbutt or D-ring snaffle instead?

Edit: sounds like a combination of too much bit, poor training, and a very rude friend.

Answer 2

I prefer to put it in a creadlesoaker made out of iridium and allow it to run until maximum entrophy and then it may as well cooperate until dawn or twilight comes...mainly in August, September or December 7th.

Answer 3

Contact Myler bits, they have all kinds of rings, mouths shanks hooks rollers etc and custom sizes.  

Answer 4

Most horses use a 5 inch bit. That should be good for him as well. When you get the bit, ask about testing it out. Will you be able to return it if it doesn't fit?

Loose ring bits with copper are very mild bits. Copper is a very good bit material. Most horses really enjoy a copper mouthpiece. No, a snaffle is a very mild bit. It shouldn't affect a horse that severely unless there is serious pull on the reins.

Bit guards are very good. I don't know if you would really need them, though. I haven't seen many people using snaffles use them. I mainly saw them on horses with gag bits. You could use them if you wanted, though. I've seen both rubber and neoprene ones. I really like the neoprene ones (they are less likely to rub). You can pick them up at any tack shop.

Answer 5

When you purchase a loose ring bit you should go 1/4" bigger than usual. I have a 15h Quarab with a little mouth and he gets a 5" loose ring and it fits just perfect. His D-ring bit I used to ride him in was a 4 3/4". My horse enjoys a copper bit. It encourages salivation and many horses like the taste of it much better. I suggest you seek help on finding the size of your horse's mouth, because it sounds like you need some trained eyes. Every horse's mouth is different and if you really aren't sure what to look for you need someone who can physically look at your horse and help you. You only need bit guards with a loose ring bit if you notice that the rings are pinching your horses mouth. Here is a link that might help you.

http://www.ehow.com/how_2169314_fit-hors...

ADD: a loose ring snaffle bit is about as mild as you can get, so unless you really haul back on the reins your horse should be ok. Just remember soft hands! As for retraining him, just put the bridle on him and go ride around a little. He should re-accept it just fine.

Answer 6

One thing that I didn't see mentioned, make sure your horse's teeth have been properly floated recently. Otherwise the bit may cause discomfort.