Which is the kindest bit for a horse?

Asked by: Tasha Holloway

The gentlest horse bit is the one maneuvered by gentle hands. But for those still learning how to steady their hands, an example of gentle bit is a straight bar with a port in the middle and large rings or long curved shanks.

Whats the kindest bit for a horse?

A mullen mouth is a plain mouthpiece with a slight curve over the horse’s tongue. This makes it more comfortable for the horse to carry than a straight-bar mouthpiece. It’s also considered more gentle than a jointed mouthpiece, as there is no pinching effect when the reins are pulled. Continue to 2 of 15 below.

What’s the softest bit for a horse?

Best Soft Bits for Horses:

What is the least harsh horse bit?

Loose Ring French Link Snaffle



A French link snaffle has two joints connected via a “lozenge” in the center of the mouthpiece. Considered one of the mildest snaffle bits. Pair it with the most forgiving cheekpiece (O-ring or loose ring) for the gentlest action.

What bit is stronger than a snaffle?

The Bevel provides more brake-power so is ideal for those horse’s needing something slightly stronger than a snaffle. This is a great bit for a novice horse at a competition! A great Bevel bit to choose is the Shires Bevel Bit with Jointed Mouth RRP £14.99.

What is the mildest bit?

Applying pressure to one or more of these pressure points will cause the horse to react in certain ways. The snaffle bit is a direct pressure bit.

• O-Ring or Loose Ring – the mildest.
• D-Ring & Eggbutt – adds slightly to severity.
• Full Cheek – adds cheek pressure & prevents bit from pulling through mouth.

Is a snaffle bit harsh?

A snaffle is sometimes mistakenly thought of as “any mild bit”. While direct pressure without leverage is milder than pressure with leverage, nonetheless, certain types of snaffle bits can be extremely harsh when manufactured with wire, twisted metal or other “sharp” elements.

Where do horses like to be touched?

They are strong and would rub or pull on each other strongly. 4- Many horses like to be rubbed on the neck, shoulder, hip, or on the chest. Some horses enjoy having their heads and ears rubbed. Horses often groom each other on the whither, so this would be a good place to try too.

What is an Eggbutt snaffle bit used for?

Eggbutt snaffle (above)



“The traditional eggbutt snaffle tends to have a straight-arm, single-jointed mouthpiece and is designed to give stability for the horse to stretch forwards and down,” explains Gail Johnson from Horse Bit Hire.

How do I stop my horse from pulling on the bit?

And then here on the right I'm asking him to give vertically. Doing vertical flexion. And right there you can see him give to me. So the first step is to teach the lateral flexion.

Why do horses open their mouths when being ridden?

A horse that opens their mouth when ridden does so, because they are reacting to discomfort or in pain. This can be caused by dental issues, harsh hands, an ill fitting bit, or something else bothering the horse. Maybe it is obvious to some of you that a horse opening their mouth while being ridden is uncomfortable.

How do you stop a horse from grabbing the bit?

To help your horse soften and accept the bit, develop some yields at a slow speed. Ask him to move his hindquarters and then his shoulders, using one rein at a time and giving the horse time to respond.

What does it mean when a horse leans on you?

2) Leaning on you



Sharing body contact is one of the main ways horses share affection. Since horses don’t have hands to hold or arms to give hugs, gentle leans and even “neck hugs” express their love.

Why is my horse hanging on the bit?

“My horse leans on the bit all the time”



Usually when horses lean on the bit it’s because they are fitted with a single jointed snaffle which is pinching due to its nutcracker action. Dressage rider and trainer Emma Woolley shows you the different walks your horse can do.