Greg’s been in touch about a comment I made on a bitless bridle. And he’s not happy:
“Al,
Your suggestion that people remove bits entirely is a real worry to me. Are you wanting to see people killed? You have obviously never handled seriously difficult young thoroughbreds without bits in their mouths .. I mean just leading them about as they start getting big, strong and overbearing & likely to rear (esp colts).
The much greater degree of control with a bit in their mouth is amazing. To suggest people ride any serious young horse in all situations with a bitless bridle is asking for big trouble, in my opinion. Sure it can work with some well trained quieter breeds, but not with many others. Why tempt fate?
Btw, I generally go to stupid extremes to keep my horses as happy & contented as possible, but I have also learnt a thing or two in 30 yrs of messing about with TBs.
Regards,
Greg”
I do think some horses are better off without bits – and some are better off with them. As with most things, it really does depend on the horse.
Here’s Pauline’s comment from below on bitless bridles:
“I would agree. I have seen stable hands flying around in the air with horses with or without bits, because they had ropes that were just too short.
If you have a long enough rope, you can stay safe and manage any kind of behaviour till the horse settles.
We have had some pretty spirited and difficult youngsters too as well as severely abused, therefore aggressive, stallions, but there are skills you can use even with a long rope to calm them down, like keep making them change direction, for example, so that they start to engage their brain.
We have had horses that were unmanageable and that terrified people, yet in minutes that changed, perhaps not for ever immediately, but with reinforcement, yes.
We ride with rope halters most of the time, but neither do we normally just tack a horse up and get on him. We prepare him on the ground first. Some of the most difficult horses I have seen are those that have been boxed most of the time. If they are allowed to let off steam by spending more time out, even those calm down.
Pauline”
Please do let us all know if you’ve got a bitless bridle story you’d like to share.
And don’t forget, there are hundreds more posts like this on the blog – but the only way you can see them all is through the newsletter.
Best
I think horses should be ridden in bits but not harsh bits, and if you do natural horsemanship then I think riding bitless is risky but if you are knowledgable the. It’s fine plus no bit makes no pain in the horses sensitive mouth 🙂
It will depend on the horse’s background. ANY horse can be trained to be safe without a bit with the proper training. This cannot be accomplished in an hour session once a week.
It’s a matter of gaining the horse’s respect and control.
After moving from shank to snaffle, my mare Tango has been bitless for about 4 years now and doing great. We started a new young palomino gelding a month or so ago, this time with a snaffle first…..tried bitless this weekend for the first time and he clearly wasn’t ready for that; not that he was naughty, just uneducated as of yet and didn’t understand the leg cues and reining requests yet. I plan to alternate between snaffle and bitless in the roundpen until he is supple and ready for bitless on our Texas trails.
Hi folks.
I have 34 horses – from Arabs to Clydesdales and including several OTTB’s. All are bitless. I work young stock, colts, reiners, cutters, mountain horses and even compete in Extreme Cowboy events – all bitless. Control of the horse is not in the mouth – it’s in the brain. I specialize in behavior problems – buckers, biters, kickers, bolters etc. I always work in bitless.
I would agree. I have seen stable hands flying around in the air with horses with or without bits, because they had ropes that were just too short. If you have a long enough rope, you can stay safe and manage any kind of behaviour till the horse settles. We have had some pretty spirited and difficult youngsters too as well as severely abused, therefore aggressive, stallions, but there are skills you can use even with a long rope to calm them down, like keep making them change direction, for example, so that they start to engage their brain. We have had horses that were unmanageable and that terrified people, yet in minutes that changed, perhaps not for ever immediately, but with reinforcement, yes. We ride with rope halters most of the time, but neither do we normally just tack a horse up and get on him. We prepare him on the ground first. Some of the most difficult horses I have seen are those that have been boxed most of the time. If they are allowed to let off steam by spending more time out, even those calm down.
The horse world needs more people like you who realize bits aren’t completely necessary.
Thank you Ross for saying the truth about control of our equine friends. It is in the brain and not the mouth.
I have a young mare who is very headstrong and does not enjoy a bit in her mouth or pressure on the mouth but she respects a pressure halter so I am riding her bit less and we doing fine. I admit that the head is a little high but she softens on corners and with more work I’m sure I will get her to a dressage show in the bit less bridle. She has reared from pressure on the bit when I ask her to halt but with the bit less she halts with less fuss
just want to ask what country are you from, I am Australian and in Australia I know that bitless bridles are not allowed in Dressage in comps in Australia, so just curious to which countries it is allowed in?
I, personally, started my younger mare with a hackamore. We walked, trotted, cantered and trail rode without a bit before I ever put a bit in her mouth. Then again, we also did everything in a halter on the ground first. If you are getting on a young horse (I would never get on a “colt” as they are still under 3) without having done any ground training you are most definitely going to run into trouble without a bit. (And probably some with one.)
I ride my mare in a bit most of the time now because it offers a more refined cue for vertical flexion etc. but we do not rely on it. It just helps to make things prettier.
I had an old trainer tell me the strongest leadrope you have on your horse is the one in his head. I think that pertains to bits too.
love your old trainer’s saying – it is so true!
If your horse cannot be ridden safely without a bit–your horse is probably not ready to be ridden safely. ❗
Well said.
totally agree with you the problem with most horses especially TB is they are far too young
Well said. Did you know the Houston Mounted Police Patrol has approximately 50 horses and they all ride bitless and shoeless!
Only difficult horses are sent to me. Mostly Thoroughbreds. All go bitless within a week. And are a hell of a lot safer than before. It’s how I make my living. Getting horses that Kick Bite Buck Bolt and Napp to “Co-Operate”
Hey. Do you have any tips? My horse is crazy 🙄 she only trusts me, so my dad hates her. Anyways. She will randomly buck and she HATES taking a bit. I’ve thought about going bitless but my dad doesnt approve of it as he thinks you cant truly control a horse from this. Plus, it can hurt the horse more than i bit. Idk. I just want to ride her and not be worried.
By the way- “There is no such thing as a soft bit!!! Feel it with your fingers twit. 🙁
u are a inspiration and I hope one day to see you in action for myself
A horse’s mouth is for food only! If you cannot do dressage at an advanced level without a bit, you just are not ready for that level yet! I have not used a bit on either my warmbloods or thoroughbreds for years and dressage is my passion. Cheers Miriam
In australia you cannot do advanced level dressage comps without a bit, so if you want to compete then a bit must be used, if used correctly then you souldn’t have an issue.
It can be dangerous if the horse has not been properly broke. But a horse that has been well handled and is well broke will responde just as well if not better without a bit. If a person is depending on the bit to keep their horse in check, then they are asking for trouble in my honest opinion. I had a stallion QH that I could grab out of the field, tie two pieces of bailing twine to his haulter and take off thru the field. Never an issue. I had trust in my horse… NOT in equipement!!!
😆 I Have had horses for 32 years. My 32 year old has a split tooth in back from bit. Yes she is a high stung horse with alot of go . Best endurance horse ever. Even @ 32. I put the bittless bridle on her. WONDERFUL YES OH YES. I have got a new horse @ 12 who never has been trained. Never had a bit in her month. I did start her in a bit. She (Rosie) diffenitaly didn’t like it. That’s how I tryed the bitless bridel. Great on her. Also my other horse., dose much better. I am a beliver. It’s what works for you & your horse. Summer
😎
I think it depends on the horse and the trainer and the area where you train. one time I forgot my bridle, I really did and we were going to play horse soccer. A friend offered one of her extra bridles but my horse used a french link bit and I did not want to go back to the regular snaffle bit so I rhode her with only her halter and a rope tied on the halter like reins. I was surprised she did wonderful. So I think it depends on how well trained they are to your seat and aides.
hey what do you all think about bridless rideing?
dear Greg,
i do not agree with you a horse learns habbits from surrondings so if you’re saying that a young horse is uncontrollable it usually has learnt to be that way not pick it up… and yes some horses are strong and excited and all of that i do understand… i have faith in my horse and if i trust him then he will know that! My old friend always told me that if you do not trust your horse on the ground in wide open spaces why should they trust you on their back ! and i believe that !
So in this wide open space, are you riding the horse or leading it?
I don’t have a horse, never had, and am not in my teens. Trying to learn stuff from these newsletters! 😛
So…from the comments and e-mail from Greg, I am gathering that it really just depends on the horse and trainer. Is that correct?
most certainly, also and sometimes just the horse and sometimes just the trainer. You might have an expert with a very unsure horse, that does not mean a bitless will work for the horse even if the trainer is extremely capable, you might also have a beginner with an excellent horse, and the bitless my work just fine.
Okay, thanks!
From these comments, it seems like lots of people like bitless (the more gentler breeds), but some think it’s unsafe. 🙁 I guess it’s just a matter of opinion – kind of.
Something people seem to forget is that the riding skills of the person on the other end of the reins/lead is more important than whether or not the horse has a bit. My horses nose was rubbed raw by a trainer (who I don’t use anymore) who was doing ground work while my horse wore a halter.
I have converted every horse that I have ever owned to a mechanical hack then after they respond well to a Basal. This included my now passed stallion. All responded well, just takes care in the introduction and your initial responses to their actions. Yep, I believe in bit less for sure. Happy Trails.
To Greg, if you backed your young hot breds when they were older and let them mature. Instead try ground work for another year before even getting on their back, it would work wonders. They would be pain free, better mannered. Back at 4/5 years old. They are still growing till 7/8 years old. Reguards Jacque.
🙄 i really think a horse must be trained with a bit, hackmore are ect,..i did trained a stud one tyme and he was crazy anyway,,i trained hm without a bit,.,.and that dude almost got mee, killed on mcfarland rd,.,in the middle of traffic,.,.no way would i ever attempt that ever again.,.so as i went dw the rd,,and i did get back into breeding and training again,.i trained many barrel and cutting horses,.,.got big money as well,,but no anyone trainin needs bits,.,.
Hi I wrote about the bitless before but thought I would address this again. I have an OTTB ran 17 races. The day I test drove him before I bought him I put a bit in his mouth. When I got off him I new that I would not put a bit in his mouth again. I immediately went to a bitless and he is wonderful and he is 17hh we both work well together. I will not ride him with a bit. On the other hand my friend got a new horse and she muscles with her head and I cant see riding her bitless. All I can say is when you bond with your horse you will know what is best. Look at the Olympics last year….did you notice the bitless hunters? Know your horse, bond with your horse, trust each other and you will know what your horse wants and responds too. D
I think bits or bitless depends on many different factors both horse & rider. The variables are too many for my liking. I like the idea of bitless, in reality… like Greg said, would work best for those horses with a more gentle personality- breed aside. I have ridden horses in halters & we had a great time. There are other horses I wouldn’t trust in a halter.
About two years ago I got the opportunity to take over a 3/4 year old wild horse – she was from a small herd of historic wild horses in Kleinmond on our coastline. After a day of patience we finally got her into a box and home where I started her off in a headcollar/halter and as she progressed with her training I was to be very truthful just too lazy to put a bridel with bit on her and kept going with just the headcollar (not even a bittless bridle) and I am still riding her with only the headcollar. She is also very boisterous and loves to buck and race but she has come to understand a slow down whistle from me so yes, young big strong boisterous horses can also go bitless. I always say it also depends on the rider/handler’s personality, not only the horse.
In reference to this comment:
“willa montague February 25, 2013 at 4:12 pm
If your horse cannot be ridden safely without a bit–your horse is probably not ready to be ridden safely.”
That’s one of the most stupidest comments I have ever heard. How dare you suggest that everyone that cannot put a bitless bridle on their horse then must have an unsafe horse. I have 7, a few can go bitless no probs but then I have also others mainly TB’s that could never be ridden without a bit, but that certainly does not mean they can never be ridden safely!!! One being my 11yr old boys 18 yr old TB he competes on at Pony club, he is an extremely safe horse with no nasties at all, but to suggest that he is unsafe just because I won’t allow my son to ride bitless is stupid. My son is 11 and the horse is quite strong, and if something should happen that would cause my horse to bolt leaving an 11yr old to pull him up against the horses strength is dumb(not that he ever has, he usually just sleeps while waiting his turn). I find your comment rude to anyone that rides with a bit. An it certainly does not mean just because we put a bit in our horses mouth that that they are unsafe, if you knew how to use a bit correctly and you had your horses teeth done regularly you should never be hurting your horse using a bit. I have also seen many bitless bridles riders causing huge amounts of damage to their horse because they don’t know how to use it correctly!
Any horse is capable of being TRAINED to where they can be ridden bitless. That doesn’t mean a child can ride it bitless. It all boils down to the combination of horse, rider and training. If a horse is improperly trained, no bit in the world will completely control it.
some horses like having bits in their mouths. i rode a draft cross that hated his hackamore. he was much happier with a bit.
I agree Melissa!If the horse is having a problem with the bit, then the rider is at fault not the bit, either that or the horse needs its teeth done! Bits should never hurt the horse if used correctly.
Sorry Ken, you missed my point, I’m not saying that horses can’t be trained without a bit, I am saying that if we do use a bit that does not mean our horses are unsafe, Willa stated that horses that need if your horse needs a bit then it is unsafe, both my kids have ridden many horses with out bits just in the halters, by daughters horse can be ridden totally tackless with just leg control, that does not mean I would send her off to pony club without her tack, that would be stupid as you never know what type of situation might arise through other riders and horses and just because my kids ride using their tack does not mean my horses are unsafe.
Also just wanted to say thanks to people like Greg for speaking for TB owners and owners of lets just say difficult breeds, thank god some one has the sense to see that not all horses are capable of bitless bridles, and like he said “Why tempt fate?” I am certainly not going to with my son and his horse, my daughter on the other hand has an old QH who works well with or with out a bit! Both r safe horses!
bieng a trainer for almost 20 yrs Ive found that trainning young horses to ride in cowboy halters the first 90days makes for a beter relation ship between horse and trainer,graduating to soft ring snaffles.
What ever works for you 🙂
Here here! I agree Polocrosse, what ever works for you, just don’t like the way some bitless riders run down us that use bits. I can go both with a few of my horses and do ride bitless or bitted on them, others need a bit but I still consider them to be SAFE rides!
Like what Debbie says, glad to see that someone that uses a bitless on one horse can also see the reason not to use it on another. Not all horses have the right nature to go bitless, but that does not mean they are an unsafe horse!
I ride my friends 25 year old Saddlebred bitless. I have hyper active reflexes and a bad hand tremor. Since I am not a good rider if I use a bit I jerk on the mouth. Riding bitless with Susie works for both of us. She loves to trail ride and looks forward to going out with me.
My arabian colt was started in a hackamore after a long time of groundwork. He is now in a bit, just so that he knows how to function with it. I find that most horses are a much better ride in a hackamore, including the hot ones. If they respond to the halter, they respond to a bitless. Otherwise you have a problem.
My kids participate in our local 4h club. In the western classes, they are required to use a shank bit if their horse is over 5 years old. They can use a snaffle in the English classes. It bothers me that they require these young, inexperienced kids to use a shank based on the age of the horse, rather than the experience of the horse and rider. My daughter is a timid rider. She may have to sit out this year as it is not fair to her horse to put a shank in her mouth, especially until my daughter learns to use her other cues.
I know how you feel Cheryl. I am in 4h and NOT happy that I see 9yo kids YANKING on their horses’ mouths with a ported or spade bit with 7 inch shanks. 4h is encouraging kids to use harsh bits and not teaching them that a plain snaffle or no bit will get the job done much better. I can’t stand to watch the other kids in 4h.
Yes the use of a bit and the type of bit should depend on the experience of the rider and the combination of horse and rider. It is a shame that the western classes have those rules.
In my humble opinion, a bit is only as harsh as the hands on the other end. BTW…what do you ‘bitless’ riders do when the unforeseen happens and your horse panics? Not knocking you, just curious, that’s all.
I do exactly what I would do with a bit-one rein stop and flex them over and over until they are thinking again. There isn’t much of a difference between using a bit and not using one when it comes to discipline. Part of riding bitless is the horse being respectful of the rider and the rider using mostly voice, seat, and leg signals.
I would never put an 11year old on a tb. to much horse for a little person. I have 8 grandchildren and 4 horses/ponies.
Well thats your decision, however my 11 yr olds TB is faultless, can’t say that about our other TB’s whom I never let them ride. My 11yr olds TB is 18yrs old, never raced and has done team penning and Pony club his whole life. Perhaps you people chouldn’t judge until you know all the facts.
I agree with you Sally every horse is different, they should not be judged just on their breed.
I use an Indian hackamore on my mare. She loves it and so do I. She knows when I saddle her up and I get out her Indian hack, we’re going for a trail ride. I rarely have to pick up on the reins with her, so it is mostly like riding without anything on her face. I use my seat, legs, and voice 90% of the time. She walks, trots, canters, and stops all by voice command or by leg command-whichever I feel like doing. I always ride with no contact (unless I’m riding dressage). I have even gone so far as to put total trust in my mare and go on a 7 mile Judged Trail ride with my Indian hack on her. I never tightened the reins once. I truely believe that going bitless helps horses, although for safety reasons for the rider it may not be best. Yes I still use bits, but when my mare is done with her show career, she will never see a bit again. Why use a bit when I don’t need to and my horse does best without?
I love riding Paso Finos. My current Paso Finos are trained bitless (one is still in training). The Paso I am currently riding is very sensitive to my feet and body cues – people often comment on his sensitivity. I have had two different Pasos run away with me, one with a bit and one without a bit. The bit made no difference in safety as I stopped both horses the same way, with the emergency stop.
I have to agree’ it depends on the horse’ and also the bond between the two.
I just lost my TB a few months ago (he was a rescue). I was ready to use a bitless on him’ I loved riding him bareback’ so why not bitless. I never knew about bonding before’ But I trusted him 100% on his back and off.I just rescued my 2nd TB.Learned a lot with my first’ Don’t see me putting a bitless on him yet!
I have 2 horses and I ride one bitless and one with a bit. The one that I use a hackamore with is bombproof. I can go hop on her without even a halter and steer her with my legs. The other horse I will put a hack on her (side pull hackamore) and I won’t neck rein her I will “steer” normal and she won’t move she doesn’t get the idea at all. It just depends on the horse to me!
Wow, there sure are some strong opinions out there. I’ve learned to never say never. I ride with bit (snaffle), without bit – halter, or on one horse with nothing. I believe it depends on the horse, the rider and the level of training that both have. If your horse does what you want when you ask and you are not causing them pain or yourself then you have a good match. I hope everyone gets lots of riding in and has fun!! 😀
awesome comment Barb, couldn’t agree more! Using a bit should not be considered cruel or painful, the same with spurs or whatever else you use on your horse along as you use them PROPERLY. However it seems that alot of people seem to think that all use of bits is wrong, when clearly, like what Paddy says a few comments down, that extremely professional trainers still use them and have unmeasured success with very happy horses as and end result. I have several horses and not one of them refuses to put a bit in their mouth, a few try to do it before I am even ready! So what does that say, I think it says they like and “hurry up ma I want to ride!”. I use both bit and bitless, depending on the horse or the riding situation.
Hey Jes,
Just wanted to say that you seem to have an open mind and I appreciate that. These days not enough people try to be in someone else’s shoes–as the old saying goes! It is nice to know that other people (and there have been several on this debate) that realize there is not one answer to horses or anything else for that matter. The day you stop learning or the day that you believe that you know everything should be the day you leave this world. Thanks for responding to my post and have a great day!!!!
I agree with you too Barb. I only have one horse at the moment and I ride him with a bit, I compete in dressage in Australia and the bit is compulsory. Like Jess’s horse mine happily puts his head into the bridle and takes the bit if I just hold the bridle by the headpiece anywhere near his head.
Hi all, interesting debate, think I’ll throw my can of worms in too, would like to know how many “bitless” riders use spurs? From my experience, these in the wrong hands can be just as bad, as can any tack can. I ride both bitless and bitted, have a horse that actually picks up the bit before I am even ready to put his bridle on, and then refuses to give it back at the end of a ride, he seems to love it. Also know that in harsh hands bits can hurt but so can some bitless bridles. It just seems to me there is lots of judgements been thrown around especially against those that use bits, as if they are cruel people, yet I have seen a bitless rider uses spurs until the horse has welts. Remember before you comment, I use both, bit and bitless, but I never use spurs.
To all the people on this debate about going bitless or using bits to ride any horse. I am 40 years old and have been around horses my whole life, like alot of peole on here I have had a lifetime of riding different breeds of horses, training, breaking, what ever you want to call it. Previous to having anything to do with natural horsemanship,when I was a kid this is what we were taught, it was catch the horse by bulging him into a corner where he couldnt get away, put a bridle on him, chuck a saddle on, kick him to go and pull both reins to stop. Now when training/breaking all my young horses that I have be given to break in, be they mine or someone elses. Now these horses range from Arabs, Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, Australian Stock Horses the list goes on. For their very first ride they are ridden in halters. So realisticly for the people who own these horses if they so choose the horse may never have a bit in their mouth. But just because someone rides with a bit, like Pat Parelli, John Lyons, Monty Roberts, Kenny May, Martin Black and all these other world class trainers doesn’t mean they are hurting a horses mouth. I think it just comes down to a personal preference. As for my personal view, I use both!
Bit or no bit, you cannot possibly overpower a 300+kg animal, horse, cow, camel what ever you are training with muscle. You must outsmart him. Training is brain work, like teaching a child to behave. It is repitition and you make the good things comfortable and the bad things uncomfortable. This can be achieved with or without a bit! I understand why some people are so against bits…..just go to your local ponyclub or horse show and watch as some riders nearly rip the bit through to the horses eyes but with gentle kind soft hands, there is no problem with a bit. My sister trains her gelding by tying his reins in a knot on his neck and works him up and down his paces with large and small circles in both directions with just her legs and seat. I personally would ride bitless but in Oz, our competitions are mainly bit based riding.
Hello
I am a journalist student and last year i interviewed a horse whisperer called patrick Kaye_ who currently lives in Midrand, South Africa
“Your horsemanship is judged by your ability to affect the horse’s attitude but before you can change your horse’s attitude you have to adjust your own” says Patrick Kaye
Kaye rides without a bridle- this made me wonder if i could manage it?
i went to interview him- which was really a very pleasant experience.
Until i had to try his method of riding. i struggled to get it right for probably 10 minutes.
This is a section of my article i wish to share with you… my experience left me wondering if i can really ride horse?
I asked Kaye to show me what he does with the horse’s so he showed me… a little bit more than what I expected. The next thing I knew I was on the back of a horse without a bit in his mouth using Kaye’s method-Which was (mind me using a cliché) absolutely amazing:
Kaye said “take the horse and get to know each other”- connect to each other. I was not really dressed to walk in a dressage arena (I was wearing sandals so the sand was really irritating me). The only way I can explain how Kaye’s method works is by using the example of Avatar except in Avatar the Avatar connects with the ‘horse’ through hair- Kaye showed me how to connect with the horse through my mind- where I looked the horse went.
When I eventually got onto the horse and tried it I failed (I was really embarrassed, I mean I am an experienced horse rider). So I realised that I needed to be open-minded about it and forget what I know about traditional horse riding. After about ten minutes I got it right. This method is truly fascinating and I felt almost as if my mind has been corrupted by the traditional riding method, however I do comprehend that not everyone will feel that way if they had to try his methods- I for one will be taking my stallion to his weekend clinic camp to see if it is possible to ride a stallion like mine without his bridle.
So the summary of Kaye’s method is simple a horse’s ‘mind instructs their legs- ride the horse’s mind’. This isn’t the easiest task but it is entirely possible. I went to Kaye’s farm because I saw an advert of the work he does and I was curious to see if it was really possible-to my amazement it was- this is really an experience that I will remember forever. The most important thing that I learned from Kaye that day is that:
‘Horses are a mind game- you need to control your own’-Patrick Kaye
if your not a very highly professional natural horsemanship person dealing with a very green/nervous/unpredictable (ect. ect. you get my point) horse then i suppose its ok t use a bt but be gentle!!! If your horse has a very soft mouth or is having mouth problems ect. ect., bitless. If you’ve got a dressage comp then yeah it’s not very good having to wear a bit but always ask the organizers before hand! you’ll be really surprised about how many let you ride bitless! But still be soft!!!!! riding is about using ALL of your aids, not just hands. Considering that, i use both but i use happy mouth bits, they’re really good and soft! anyone else heard/use of these?
like the last one.. its really doesn’t matter as long as whatever bridal you using is a good bridal… I have a roping horse and if i’m roping I usually use a bit because she perfers that.. but i usually dont even use the reins much because i use my legs with her…. and then i have another horse who i just use for a cow horse.. this may sound irrisponsible but i have a tie down with reins on and use that for her because she will respond to anything an i use the most gentle thing i have.. my rope tiedown…
question to everyone that says that if you cant do something without a bit you aren’t ready to do it. Does that mean if you can’t get on without a bit, you shouldn’t be getting on? What if this is you’re first time ridding? should instructors teach new students to use a bit when they first start?
I don’t think that horses should be ridden without bits. What is wrong with a bit? It is dangerous to ride a horse with a bitless bridle because it puts pressure on the horse’s nostrils and they can’t breathe. only very experienced riders can use them, but they don’t really need the, then. They can ride the horse without hurting them with a bit on!
Quote “only experts should use gadgets. Experts don’t need gadgets” it’s basically just saying that you shouldn’t use something if you don’t know how to use it properly. if your at the level you know how to use it properly you probably don’t need it.
see my quote!and before people say because child rider,my daughter is better than most adults and rode since very young,she rides the horse better than everyone else as it is her horse and they have a very close connection!
I totally agree with the nose pressure thing,but blindly thought would never happen,does happen and in a split second if horses braces and resists!
I went to an event this past week-end, with about 200 riders. I saw at least two horses being ridden bitless in the stadium jumping part, and who did very well (with spunky horses). I did not see the Xcountry part. But I agree that we should go bitless whenever possible, however that is not for every horse or rider, that is clear and that should be decided on a case by case basis. I have been riding for 30 years too and the only horse I would have put a bitless briddle was my thoroughbred when he reached 30 years of age! It is worth trying in the ring if the horse responds well to behaving with a bitless briddle at all gates, and then take him out for a little walk around the property and see what he does. Then you can decide whether it is a good idea of not.
Wow really strong Opines.
personally I think the mechanical hackamore is about as tough as i’ll get with mine. and we’ll be working Towards just a Mecate and reins.
I have heard horror stories of hoses “dripping blood” and how cruel they are.
and one must but think, if any of that were true at all Then the next days news carried the story of the Rider being stomped to death.
Simply put NO horse I have ever seen, would put up with that for a second.
Not that they should have too either, an owner like that should be arrested for cruelty.
But then again, if it weren’t for cruel owners and fools Some of us old farts wouldn’t have our riding stock, I love my AQH, who Hated her previous owner, and my reward for rescuing her from the road “One more time “, was to get to Keep her.
She never goes out and sometimes doesn’t want out now.
Hi,bit,no bit
well we have an apaloosa rescue,5 pro trainers(3 failed)now let me expalain some details,horse used to rear and still can but very rare,6 months ago a trainer decided horse should be bitless(eventhough my 9 year old daughter and I had ridden her in a bit without to many issues)you see,she would choose,who she would let ride her and who she would not??mounting problem mostly and her mind,I personally have always believed,not bit!anyway,we were pressured into bitless,(eventhough I saw horse also rear bitless with trainer and other riders when they pushed her to do something harder or new and they said,reason for this, she thinks still has bit in thats why??I disagree,old habbit,just what she does,doesnt like something,that is her way of resisting riding?)Anyway,daughter rode bitless for 5 months,in all bitless bridles,cost me fortune,but then recently,horse had a little resistance,my daughter tried to flex horse and move its hind quarters(what we would do in a bit sucessfully) didnt work,the horse pushed on bracing itself, resisting her cues,my daughter tried on,result, the pressure of the bitless on her nose was getting stronger,if she released pressure,hore understood had full power and continued to act-up,and the more the horse fought and my daughter tried to turn head and hindquarters,the more pressure I think was applied and horse was not happy!So,my understanding is that bitless is not so great if horse one day resists cues and braces itself?????? I had to step in fast and loosen the pressure!This made me rethink,so looked up lots of stuff on google and was surprised that this situation is quite common,some people damage the nose by accident,some horses stumble more as there is no constant contact(which noticed our horse did do more bitless)and daughter could not do basic dressage her passion as snaffle bit required)So yesterday,put rubber covered snaffle bit back on(her old bit),despite comments,no resistance(as before,daughter had no problem,all disbelievers watching her)infact in my view held herself better and moved better,my daughter did some tests,moved hind quarters and flexed at ease and to my surprise felt more relaxed riding for an hour and a half including contact,horse showed no signs of stress whatsoever,closed mouth,good saliver,blew out continually,loose tail,relaxed body and head,no stumbling,listened to cues on snaffle bit??????? So now we have decided,to ride her in bit again and perhaps sometimes alternate to bitless!
I think it all depends on the horse and rider whether to go bitless or not.
I approached my boy once with the halter I sometimes rode him in and he put his ears flat, pulled the meanest face. So I, with the bridle (straight bar rubber happy mouth bit with no noseband) in one hand and the halter in the other and I said “right you choose”, and he moved his head past the halter and touched the bridle with his nose… Since then I rode in the bridle every time.
The problem is not the bit, its the hands at the end of the reins. I have seen horses ridden bitless with their chins on their chest [hyperflexion]! most people just want to quick fix to control the horse without taking the time to train and win the horses co operation. I ride with either, makes no difference!
I read few comments and no one go at target. Originally I am from eastern Europe, were they use oxen (steers) to pull carts and don’t use bit and neither reins. Why ?
Because the oxen don’t Spook and don’t rear like a horse do.
The bit is for safety only. You ride with your seat and your legs only.
The problem is not the breed but the rider, the owner and the trainer.
The traizner want to make money, the owner want to make a performance horse and the rider want to show he/she is the boss and in that time the horse is abused and tromatised.
Do you ever rescued a horse ?
I have two horses rescued and I train them.
Hello, heres my thoughts…
Bitless has its place! I have a 9 year old COB who hacks out beautifully in a bitless he is so relaxed and enjoys not having a piece of metal rattling around in his mouth at least for some of the time., If we are hunting/x countrying the bit goes in as we need brakes! Don’t get me wrong we do have brakes in the bitless but its less effective.
Every horse is different let them tell you and try it if you think they are steady enough! 😀 😀
Wanna ride bitless ? Git yur saddle blankets wet, soften yur hands, go with yur horse. And don’t take em out til you got em. Some don’t have that kind of time, or that kind of horse. No matter, be gentle with your mount, either way. I think most are.
God Bless
I think that every horse, like every human, is unique and that we need to take this into consideration when dealing with both. There is room in the world for everyone. Perhaps we should be much more tolerant and accepting and less judgemental. Just because what works for you doesn’t work for me doesn’t mean that it is wrong. Often it is just trial and error that will show us what is right for both us and the horse.
Not all horses can safely go bit-less. It’s much more difficult for the horses to breathe especially on a horse that requires tight reigns. A rider can use a gentle bit and be gentle with the bit when bridling up the horse. Bosals are not suitable for all horses.
I have ridden a lot,(other peoples horses) fifty years ago! Now in my retirement I have been given an, AQH and am having to train her myself, she is four now has been broke professionally, by a real working Cowboy/Trainer, we tried the mechanical hack and she is definitely too headstrong yet, and Inexperienced.
now we are using an O-ring snaffle, with a German martingale, and she is better, but when I wish to go one direction and she the other, there are still problems, The hack and a sidepull are still in our future.
but here is my Question, should I be Longe lining her before eachride ?.
she is pastured in good weather which we have a lot of, barned in winter. and I normally coax her in brush and love on her, fly-spray her tack-up and go ride.
Once with bad results, when she wanted to “Talk” with the stud down the road, I got a broken arm for my insistence, she has never been hit, and I dearly Love my horse.
So? Line her first ? or just keep working at her.
And Yes that was my comment, that started out with “Wow, really strong Opines” Same horse and we are still working on that Long Ride, we are up to six miles some days, around the house once on others.
Any horse can be trained to ride bitless. A bit does not control a horse, the training put into the horse controls the horse. How many horses have you seen with big, painful bits in their mouths that still manage to bolt and run free? Unfortunately, we live in a society where people want instant results, instant gratification. Goodness, take the time to train your horse and you’ll be amazed at how much control you have over them once they understand what it is you want. I honestly don’t believe that there are any horses who can’t be ridden bitless. If you think your horse needs a tight rein, then train them not to. If you’re worried about them bolting, bucking or rearing, then train them not to. I’ve seen it done. It can be done. Everything else is just an excuse. Sorry to sound harsh, but I feel very strongly about this. Especially in light of a lot of updated research that I’ve seen lately about the damage bits do to a horse’s mouth, even in light hands. And, please, if you use a bit, take the time to at least train yourself to understand and use light hands. Be fair to your horse!
To me bitless is the way to go. Work with the horse, I think yes people are too impatient and want them ready too young. I have been working with an abused Clyde that’s 3-1/2 years old for a year, even when he goes bonkers/freaks out, because he’s afraid of something in the arena on his own I yell stop and he does. I’m not even on him nor attached. So build that bond.
I rescued a 20 year old Quarter horse mare 8 months ago. This horse was abused and was hit on her face with a crowbar. It took us 3 months to put a halter on her, because she was so afraid. We couldn’t even put a bit on her, but that’s what we (horse owners) are trained to do, right?. After months and months of loving her, taking care of her, and assuring her that we were here to love her, she finally trusted us. We tried every bit nothing worked. As soon as we put a bit less bridle, the difference was obvious and instant as far as obedience and control. She has been great. I would never put a another bit on any of my horses. Those that have never used a Bitless Bridle and say “you must use a bit” or something similar, I have one thing to say, You don’t know what you don’t know. Take 15 minutes and read about how the Bit less bridle works. And remember, just because something has always been done that way (using bits) doesn’t mean it is “right”.
In my experience It does depend on the horse. You can’t just take a bit out of a horses mouth and expect it to respond. You can teach some horses to ride well but less and some do better with one. I use the Myler or Reinsman bits with the Bob Allen mouthpiece. I can even barrel race with it and my horse stops beautifully with no pull. She needs something in her mouth but it in no way needs to be harsh. I abhor gag bits. You never ride with your hands, they are a tool. You ride with the body/ legs. If you start a baby bit less that’s what they know but I have handled some colts, especially some studs, who I feel do need a bit to keep them focused on you and keep them listening. People who are using sever bits or rides and balance with their hands will hurt a horses face no matter what they use. It’s the rider not the bit.
Just my opinion.
I have 4 horses 3 won’t let you on them without saddle being just right or bits in. Sure if I am just leading a child in a saddle no problem. The other hates bits so she goes bit less and is fine. Bits aren’t cruel humans are. If not to tight or to small and used properly bits don’t hurt horses. I’ve been riding since before I could walk. I’ve picked up a little knowledge along the way like every horse has its own personality. It’s up to the human to learn their horses likes and dislikes. If we all had horses with one personality then we’d ride them all the same but that’s not the case at all.
Our present primary thoroughbred breeding stallion, Slewquero, we started riding with a bitless bridle! He was the toughest, most difficult and smartest thoroughbred we have ever taught to be ridden in over 30 years of working with young thoroughbreds. Slewquero is by a stakes winning sire of the Forty Niner/ Mr. prospector sire line. He was so smart he simply wouldn’t open his mouth to a snaffle bit! We found with the bitless bridle we actually have superior stopping and halting responsiveness, although less effective directional control at times. We can at times utilize a bitted bridle now, but he prefers the bitless and we have better gait control as to speed.
I used to always ride horses in bits but I don’t anymore. My two spirited Paso Fino’s have never been ridden with a bit. They are extremely sensitive to movement of the rider’s body and respond to cues much better than many “bitted” horses I have seen. It is almost as if I think it and they do it. There is less confusion because they pay attention to the subtle shifts in your body. As far as control goes, I have had two horses run away with me, one with a bit and one without a bit. I stopped them both the same way, with the one rein stop, which worked just as well with both horses.
What are peoples opinions on Dr Cooks bitless bridles? I have heard they are quite good but I want to make sure as I am thinking of getting one for my horse
I think it depends on the horse so I have grown up.
Good grief, the judgements and false, incorrect information here is so irresponsible and certainley does not cover all the pro’s and cons regarding using a bit vs bitless. First of all, EDUCATE yourselves thoroughly on how a bitless bridle, hackamore,and bosal works, for Gods sake. Then EDUCATE yourselves as to the myriad of different bits and how they are properly used. If I didnt have 40 yrs training and riding under my belt, this entire conversation/debate would leave me entirely confused as to what on earth is better FOR THE HORSE. After all, thats why we aew reading this article,isnt it? It should be!!! Since my partner cannot verbally say “Get this off me, I cant beeathe and Im scared”,or “get this metal out of my mouth,it is clanging against my teeth”, I MUST find other ways to communicate with my beloved partner,EDUCATE MYSELF,and do what is right for my precious animal. If either of these aids cause him pain, IT IS MY FAULT.
I have ridden each way.I think it depends on the training of the horse. I also agree that the rider’s handling of the reins has a great impact on how a horse responds.
Yes bit-less!:grin:
This is a article about bits. I think EVERYONE should read it! It is a amazing article!
http://www.horseandhuman.co.nz/articles/html/the_truth_about_bits_part5.html
We rescue horses. I have seen horses with their tongues nearly cut in half by the bit, others rubbed raw by the inappropriate use of a hackamore, bitless bridle, ill-fitting bridle, whatever…. I was taught to ride using a bit but using the whole of my body so that I could control the horse just with the strength of my little fingers. What is most important are the hands and general skill of the rider and the training of the horse. A horse that is kindly but firmly trained is essential to your safety and the well-being of the animal. Not all of us have the skill or experience to achieve the right training. In that case we need to get professional help from people whose previous work we have actually witnessed. We need to stop using horses as guinea pigs for our own inexperience. A horse will know almost from the moment you get on him the level of your ability. Learn to bond with him and whatever his breed he will look after his rider if he has been well trained.
If you can’t ride your horse without a bit then you need to work on your relationship with that horse. Build your trust with each other. I ride my horse in a rope halter and I feel like we both enjoy the ride a lot more.
😀 I’ve ridden many breeds, but I agree going bit less! I still have one of my oldest horses with me. She is 39 human yrs. old… I’ve had her since she was 18 months old. I rarely ride her now for she has arthritus in left front knee, & both shoulders. since I got her (rescueing her from meat buyers at an auction) I only use a Bowsal; or a halter. She is retired now. But only a Bowsal was my first @ most pick everytime on any horse. Better impact & very good communication between horse & me. A lady came to me about 17 yrs ago; asked why I only use a bowsal on my ride. I said I get more respect & great communication from the horses I’ve ridden. The horse I am talking about is an (APPALOOSA MARE)out of Prince Plaudett Blood line. She is a daughter of Him. Her horse (gotten from her friend) told her the horse had a hard mouth. I rode her in an areana for 50 ft. got off & checked her mouth & found her tounge had been cut around badly. I told her first use a hackamore I used on a Stallion of mine. Then grad uate to the bowsal. She did and was very pleased with out come. The proper Bowsal works on any horse. Which will give you much “Hope & Success.”
Greg ,I dont totally agree with your comments, there are a lot of other breeds that are as bad as and dirtier than the TB
All horses should be bitless and no shoes. I have an exracer thoroughbred and he is doing well without shoes and I have to learn more to communicate with him but I am doing ground work and we are getting there. I hate what bits do to them and didn’t realise until I did research. It doesn’t matter what horse you have no bits should be used. If a rider cannot ride without a bit they shouldn’t be on the back of a horse.
I disagree completly. If you feel safe WITHOUT a bit, you’re flirting with disaster 🙄
I find it so very interesting how pro-bit folks will often say that being bitless in an emergency situation is so irresponsible, while in the same breath insisting “if you have soft hands…” How does one control a panicked horse with “soft hands”, pray tell…?! No way around it but to crank up the heat through their mouth if they’re relying on the bit to control the horse in an emergency situation. In my 48 years, I’ve never been on or witnessed a panicked horse that responded well to added pain. Especially in the sensitive bars or roof of their mouth. ‘Nuff said.
🙄 A bit doesn’t make you safe. A trained horse is the difference. Sometimes the horse is running away from the bit. Many of us have had this happen and had a transformation when we take away the bit and use a bosal, a rope halter, or a bitless bridle. The disaster is that some people do not understand this. Its your loss and the loss for any horse that needs to go bitless that you might encounter. 🙄
I have a thoroughbred x horse. When I got him I was also given his tack along with a martingale. Even with this, he used to stick his head in the air and totally ignore my attempts to slow him to a controllable speed. I thought about getting a more severe bit but decided very quickly against it. My husband suggested that I used a bitless bridle. I was VERY dubious initially, however the difference in him is unbelievable! He is no longer trying to run off, pull away from me and is SO much easier to control. He is a different horse! All this within approximately 100yrds on the first day of using the bitless bridle. I could not believe the difference. After owning him for approximately 1 1/2yrs, fighting to control him all the time to a lovely relaxed horse is just amazing. I can now trot him without him going straight into a flat out gallop. I would definitely recommend a bitless bridle. Of course, it totally depends on the individual horse but it was definitely the best thing for my horse.
Hi Folks
I’m 52 and have a four year old medicine hat paint saddle bred mare. I tried to go without a bit, and I really didn’t have any control she’s a big hand full. So for her it is a bit. Can anyone help me with idles to make her back up when I’m on her? I have tried everything I know. Thanks for reading.
Sincerely
resa62004
She should back with you on the ground first. You should work her in a rope halter, doing lots of ground work. Then you should try riding her in the rope halter. There are videos on the internet showing how to do this and the progression of training.
At 16 my Dad bought me a running quarter horse. He had been use as a pace horse for the track. His deal was he ran away with everyone and would dump them off. The cowboys at the barn where we boarded (military base) had me use a snaffle bit and draw reins to manage him. He never threw me but I NEVER let him get faster than a slow canter He always felt like he wanted to run away and did with several others. One guy taking care of him while I was away, put a harsher bit in his mouth and got thrown into the barn wall and hospitalized. I don’t know why I kept this horse but it was all I had and he and I bonded. I could ride him and manage him even if no one else could. Then, a guy showed up, looking for a horse to ride occasionally and offered training and lessons in exchange. I made the deal. This was back in mid 1970s and this guy was training natural horsemanship. He took off the snaffle and draw reins, I had been using for over 4 years. He put on a bosal with a mecate and worked with my horse getting him over his fears. The horse was a different animal. I could ride him anywhere, he didn’t try to run away with me or this other guy. Then we started riding him in a tom thumb for shows as bosals were not allowed and a kimberwick for English. This horse went on to be a long term great ride and eventually a horse I taught lessons on. I still have the bosal and have found only one horse that couldn’t be ridden in it. She was tramatized and injured by a trainer using one to tie her head down and I couldn’t even get it on her. Point is, the bit is not what stops the horse. A bit can cause problems and bad habits can develop in the horse and rider. The horse stops because they respect the rider.
Hi to all.
Just some observations from my own personal experience. I have ridden with the simple snaffle,thru a port with my open jumper, a Bosel with a QH, a rubber bit with a 3yr old Missouri Fox Trotter, to bareback with nothing in cheyene’s mouth.
I believe each horse is different and their needs and comfort come first. That said, I believe that too many people who claim to care about horses want the McDonalds quick fix so they can get the blue ribbon and be the star. Those people shouldn’t own a pet rock
I had an English trainer for 11 years-my TB was the Open jumper champ for 5 years-I rode him on a port- but I have SOFT hands, thus he never was hurt or in pain from me.I can’t say the same about some of my competors.
I ride my Morgan bareback with a halter and 2 lead lines-he gets my cues from my touches, my legs and my voice-we are one.
I had my Gypsy Vanner trained by voice, touch , leg and weight shift. At 6 yrs old, he is the best!
Each rider and horse is different-we all are learning each day-it still takes time and patience to attain our goals.
I believe both types of headgear have a place in the horse world as long as the hands holding the reins are soft.
Good riding!
I have a arab, she is 4 yrs old. She is not broken yet. I have a very good solid bond with her, I would like to try and ride her bitless. Where do I start, or shall I say how?
Bit or bitless, the horse needs to be properly trained using natural horsemanship methods. I have a friend who rides bitless because she is “too heavy handed” ….. she needs to learn not to be heavy handed. You can inflict pain with bitless bridles & rope halters with heavy hands too!
couldnt agree more
i used to ride my horse in a bit. He had no problem with it. But one day at a show a little incident happened, nothing serious. But my trainer put a hackamore on my horse. And let me tell you it made all the difference. And I know not all horses can be ridden without a bit.