It is often said that, “The Bit is the Key to the Horse”. Whom exactly Dr Bristol is or was is a little bit of a mystery however the what is being stated here is very important. In a slightly less succinct way one should look at horse bits as the “signal switching station” of the horse What I mean by that is that for the horse to do what is desired one needs to send specific signals to different parts of the horse. It is the bit and its attachments which take the “signals” from the rider’s hands and “switches” them to the target areas.

The large variety of how you indicate to a horse to do the rider’s will is born out by the very wide range of horse bits on the marker. The different types, styles and variations to these horse bits are there specifically to create a signal to a part of the horse.

One must not forget the importance of other signalling tools such as the rider’s legs and seat generate important signals, but it is the horse bit both directly and indirectly via the bridle that gives the most flexibility in getting the horse and rider working as a team.

Remember the fundamental thing is that horse bits are designed to work by creating pressure on these specific points of the horse and most certainly not pain. Always treat the animal with the greatest respect and review your own riding abilities and horse bit selection first, rather than immediately attributing any riding problems to the horse. Under no circumstances should you attempt to fix an issue by increase the amount of pain you inflict!

So what are the points of the horse that take the signals from the bit?

The tongue : some bits are broken in the centre such as a jointed pelham bit. These types of bit have a so called “nutcracker effect” squeezing the toungue and grabbing the horse’s attention .

The roof of the mouth – the bits mentioned earlier can work on the horse’s roof of mouth. As the bit breaks at its centre the point of what you can think of as an upside down ‘v’ shape can stab into the roof of the mouth so grabbing the horse’s attention.

The bars – the bit mouthpiece sits on the gums or “bars” of the horse’s mouth,  This is the space behind the front incisors and before the molars.  A simple straight mouth snaffle works simply by applying pressure in this area.

The lips – the horse’s lips can be contacted by the horse bit. Some more severe horse bits with chain mouths pull into the sides of the mouth providing quite a stiff signal. Such mouth pieces are often exibited in gag style bits. Only very soft hands should be needed with this sort of bit.

The poll : a sensitive area on the horse’s head between or just behind the line of the ears. It provides a point of focus for the horse bit and bridle that can modify the horse’s behaviour.  When the bit is engaged with the reins the bridle or more accurately the crown piece of the bridle pulls down on the poll. The poll and its position is also a useful guide to how well the horse is working with the bit. As a specific example in classical dessage the poll should be observed to be the highest point on the horse when all is well.

The variety of effects of the horse bit are numerous. By understanding such effects achieved by the horse bit and bridle the relationship between horse and rider can be refined .  Sometimes your needs may require that you look at custom horse bits for your solution. But be sure to seek advice.

The bit truly is the key to the horse. The relationship between horse and rider can be complex and many riders jump too quickly to conclusions regarding their riding problems . Horses are personalities in their own right and how you successfully control them, whether in horse racing, show jumping or just a sunday afternoon ride is not just about the bit. It is how you, your horse and the bit work together. Don’t forget it might be you that is the problem and not the horse. In this article we will review what different horse bits bring to this relationship, and how to make that relationship successful .

When considering the partnership between the rider and the horse the bit is essential to the success of that relationship , and finding the right bit for the job can be a challenge and often relying on luck in the end .

By correlating what you observe in your horse’s behaviour with the variety of bit features , one can become more confident about the bit you choose, however perfectly categorising horse bits and their specific function is difficult.  Many of the features of horse bits are often mixed together to form new varieties, however for our purposes in this article we will create some broad definitions that will form the basis of future discussion.

What follows is a brief overview of horse bit types.

Snaffles are known as direct pressure bits. When the rider pulls on the rein, the same amount of force is transmitted directly to the horse bit . This style of bit is particularly useful when training a new horse but it can be used at anytime.

Curbs bits are different to snaffles and rely on leverage . The physical construction of the bit is designed to generate leverage and multiplies the pressure applied by the rider . The longer the bit shank or cheek length the more force will be generated . Due to this leverage effect and potential discomfort to the horse, curbs are best used in the hands of a more experienced rider whom has developed a controlled touch.

“Combo Bits” .  The snaffle and curb effect can be found in one bit with some bits such as Pelhams and Gags.

To complement these basic principles of horse control there are a wide variety of bit attributes giving great flexibility to the knowledgeable rider looking to address particular issues with their horse.  As an example the swales 3-in-1 bit offers a number of combinations of features.  The swales is popular with riders with strong horses.  This controlling force is applied through a curbing action and can be varied by choosing a specific shank length.

One can also choose different materials for the bit, for example copper offers a affect that encourages the horse to salivate and may help the horse be more responsive to the bits action. Whereas a rubber bit is a gentler bit and often a good option for the younger horse as they are learning to correctly respond to the will of the rider and the action of the bit.

A stronger bit might subsequently be necessary if the rubber bit is loosing its effect such as when the horse gets bigger or more canny.  Having said that when the horse works well with the soft bit do not feel you must change as the horse gets older. As the saying goes “if it aint broke dont fix it” which is often a good philosophy with horses .

Modifying port height in the bit is another variable you might consider. The height of the port can allow more room for the tongue but when the reins are pulled more force is put on the horse’s palate e.g. High Port Pelham. So in this case very careful evaluation of your requirements is recommended so that you do not injure your horse .

To summarise one can physically control the horse with direct or indirect force. Also the bit can be modified to provide more or less force depending on the horse.  The behaviour of the horse can be affected by adjustments to the mouth piece form and even what it is made from e.g. copper or rubber.

In future articles we will look at some typical horse and rider problems that can be addressed by using different bit forms.  However remember your horse is a animal that deserves love and respect and one should not simply apply general rules in a prescriptive way .  Your horse cannot talk but he is definitely trying to help you solve your problem.

The love between man and horse has continued for centuries.   There are many reasons man love horses, but companionship appears to be the main reason.   Horses are bred for a specific purpose.  Did you know that there are over a hundred horse breeds in the world?  There actually may even be some of which we are still not yet aware.   So many breeds of horses exist, but for the most horses fall into 3 main categories, pony, light, or heavy horses.

The smallest horses are the ponies.   Ponies are characterized by their mild temperaments and easy manageability, they make more suitable pets for children.   Ponies may be very small in their stature, but some are as strong as large horses, they can carry adult riders, and pull large, heavy loads.  Don’t let the small size of the pony fool you, they can often carry large riders and pull heavy loads.

Light horses are larger than the pony.   The light horse has longer legs, making it faster and taller than the pony.   Because of their looks, they appear to be a finer horse. Some well known light horse breeds would include the Arabian, Morgan, Appaloosa, Standard bred, Thoroughbred, and Quarter Horse. Due to their vast positive features, they are often used for riding and racing, as well as other purposes.

The popularity of the heavy horses is less than the other groups, but this type of horse is none the less valuable. These are ideal for work on farms and have been used in the past for war and carrying heavy loads and equipment. Good training and strength are required when dealing with the heavy horses. In the heavy horse category, we have the Clydesdale, Shire, and Lipizzaner.

There is a type of horse that is going to meet your need, no matter what it is. All the horses, I have described here are going to make wonderful pets for those willing to offer them your time and care.

Why do folks train their horses? What are the issues that the trainer needs to contemplate before and throughout the coaching stage? What are the best horse training tips? These are only a few of the questions that a horse coach or a horse owner needs to answer or know of before the “instructing” begins.

Training a horse is definitely not an easy task. It takes hard work, willpower, patience and of course it’s best to have the skill. Treat your horse as a human being and act as a herd leader; these are surefire horse training tips that may result in a successful learning.

Horses are being trained for recreation and sports. Some are being prepared for a film stunt, circus act, equine-assisted psychotherapy, etc. With the ability to know the purpose of the coaching is important so you’ll be able to gauge the essential methods that your horse should learn. Subsequently, a trainer has to know the tools that may help him or her in the process. For extra advanced methods, it would be best to hire an professional this field.

If you are looking or trying to find horse training suggestions, there are several books and magazines accessible out there today. There are even some that concentrates on instructing wild horses, horses used for racing, etc. The internet can also be a good venue for researching.

After you have discovered the coaching techniques that you need to use, the following factor to do is put together your horse for learning. Creating camaraderie between the trainer and the animal is very important, most especially because you are coping with another type of being.

Ultimately, the key towards a profitable coaching is to have patience, self-control and determination. As soon as you are able to create a bond between you and the horse, learning becomes simpler and extra enjoyable.

We all know it is body-clipping time if you work with Gypsy Vanner Horses. If the temperature where you live is above 70 deg F it is time to remove that winter coat . Most Gypsy Vanners are used to being body clipped if they are from a warm climate area. If they haven’t ever been clipped, they may be afraid of the clippers.  If they have never been clipped before, you will need to take the time to introduce them to the clippers.

Introduce the horse to the clippers slowly
We have found if you hold the clippers on them and also give them some loving , they will set about to understand that the clippers will not hurt them.  Horses are prey animals in the wild , so they are naturally fright or flight animals   As a groomer it is our duty to make this a pleasant experience for them. If the big clippers scare the horse, try starting with littler ones (the ones used to trim the face).  The large clippers (the ones used on the body) make a loud noise, so understand that it is a fear response?, not misbehaviour.

Start with a clean horse
Brush and thouroughly clean the horses coat.   At Gypsy MVP we use a medicated shampoo from EZ-Groom. We find that this shampoo prevents irritation.

Be sure to keep the clipper blades cool and clean
This makes your job easier and gives better results for the horse . Keeping the clippers cool and clean is very important. Clippers get hot really quickly , so make sure you study them often. And if they are dirty they are louder and cut slower.

Offer treat when you are finished with the grooming session
After you are done , make sure you give the horse a treat, so it makes it a good experience for him .  This way the next time you put the horse in a bay for clipping (or any other reason) they will look forward to the experience.

This article is compliment of Lisa the groomer for Gypsy MVP, America’s most trusted source for Gypsy Horses.

The overwhelming variety of different types of horse bit is confusing.  To the casual observer why the huge variety?   This variety has arisen over time in response to the needs of different riders and their specific activity.  Also what might be surprising to the non horse person is the great variety of different horse activities.  This variety also leads to the desire for differently performing horse bits and especially in the competitive sphere where winning is important.

Probably the three most popular or well known horse activities are horse racing, equestrian events such as show jumping, and sports such as polo and driving.  The different horsemanship requirements in these very different areas require different horse bits to maximize the chance of success.

In horse racing the Dee-ring snaffle bit, also known as the racing snaffle is one of the most popular designs.  The Dee-ring snaffle has two rings either side of the mouthpiece with the distinctive D shape. The straight bars of the Dee-ring is pulled against the side of the mouth opposite to the rein pulled, pushing the sides of the Dee against the horse’s mouth provide the ability to guide the horse and turn as required in a race.

Eventing requires a variety of different riding skills in dressage, cross-country and show jumping and it is the wide variation in the skills required that tests the horse and rider to the limit. From the viewpoint of the event rider there are seemingly competing issues that might confound choosing perfect multipurpose horse bits.  On paper one needs very specific control during dressage, somewhat more free rein allowing the horse freedom to be rapid between fences and finally in the case of cross country allowing the horse to efficiently apply power, and not be fighting unnecessary control by the rider.

In show jumping in general it is popular to use a bit that gives more control especially with a heavier horse that might lean on the bit or take hold.  Gag bits are fairly common and when rein pressure is applied the bit slides upward rotating slightly in the mouth which gives the signal to to the horse. Show jumpers find the Cheltenham a popular type of gag bit. The Cheltenham gag is a specific gag bit often used by show jumpers.  It has “eggbutt” rings, which remedies the problem of pinching found with the common loose ring snaffl.

Where the snaffle looses its effect the curb can step in where it provides extra leverage to the riders rein control.  In show jumping the swales 3-in-1 which is a modification of the old Swales driving bit has become popular with show jumpers whom have found it effective with strong horses which are common in show jumping events .  Also problems where the horse goes over bent can be helped by the Swales 3 in 1 as it doesn’t affect the horse’s poll.

Some horses have a tendency to rush off after clearing a fence and can therefore make control and judgement of next obstacle more difficult. It might be easy to opt for a curb bit that will pull up the horse but as is often the case fix the issue by training the horse correctly rather than “fixing” the problem when it happens. Be aware that a horse that rushes his fences may be reacting to a poor choice of horse bit, maybe it is pinching him .

When we look at the dressage part of the eventing sequence horses may only be ridden in snaffle type bits. And also there are rigourous guidelines as to what type of snaffle may be used. Cross country is more flexibly governed and gag bits are popular choices .

Whether you are an amateur or a professional competing at the highest level, which bit you go with will have a big impact on your results .  However what you often find is that the success of the rider and horse is typically achieved through the skill of the rider and not the application of a particular bit to fix a particular problem

Some of the contributing factors that may cause your horse to buck when you ride it are: a change in environment, feeding, health conditions, equipment used, and you’re riding approach.

Horses normally buck when a stranger tries to mount it. However, if have been with the horse for a long period of time and have noticed sudden bucking behavior, then try to evaluate the changes that may have happened lately. Understanding the horse’s sudden change of behavior and knowing the factors that have contributed to those unexpected behavioral changes are key to riding your horse swafely. Carefully evaluate the given factors below to know the appropriate things to do so you can avoid Horseback riding accidents:

Environment

Check if your horse has been ridden or brought outdoors recently. Note the number of hours that your horse spends outside and the number of hours the horse spends indoors. Having your horse stay indoors for a long period of time will affect its behavior. Horses love to stay outdoors where they can gallop freely. It is their exercise, and they love it. Keeping your horse in the stable for too long will make it anxious and irritable which results in bucking when being ridden.

Feeding

Feeding the horse with high quality hay is most important. A horse’s energy needs are similar to that of how humans need food to function. Humans cannot do anything very well if we don’t eat the right kinds and amounts of food. Horses, too, need nutrients in order for them to stay healthy and maintain their figure. The appropriate quality of food is also vital to the horse’s behavior and mood.

Health Conditions

Checking the health of your horse is important, too. When you take the time to examine the horse’s overall health, you will know whether or not it is in a bad mood. Horses normally misbehave and buck the rider off when it is not feeling well. An irritating body pain, such as tooth decay, will distract the horse because it is very uncomfortable for the horse, especially when being ridden.

Equipment Used

Check your saddle to see that it not hurting the horse. If it is uncomfortable for your horse, it will normally duck to express that it is unhappy with the equipment attached to it. Be sure that you check the saddle every time you insert your shoes into it so you can know it fits the horse correctly. The girth should not be tightened too much, as this will also tighten the saddle and the cinch, which is uncomfortable for the horse. Make sure that everything fits the horse well.

Riding Approach

Horses normally don’t like to be ridden or driven, which makes bucking their common reaction. The horse will only get submissive and allow a person to ride it if it has already adapted to the riding capabilities of the rider. It is important for the rider to learn how to read the horse’s thoughts. The more you are around the horse the easier it will be to get a feel them for its instincts and know whether or not it is scared of something. Also, know and teach the horse how to turn according to your command. Train the horse to respond to your tapping signals so it can turn when you want it too.

Practising and mastering your skills of riding a horse will eventually put you in control every time your horse misbehaves or bucks. Don’t forget to be sensitive and mindful to your horse’s nutritional needs as well.

You can purchase horse nutritional supplements to provide your horse the best nutritional care by visiting E3 Live for Horses.

If you are examining horses for sale and thinking about buying one, you might be into something complex. Horses are very adorable animals and lots of fun, but purchasing a horse could possibly be one of your more involved decisions. The main thing is to recognize that after buying a horse, it becomes a bit difficult to dispose of if by any chance you consider your choice as inappropriate. Moreover you must set aside the funds necessary to own your horse. Nevertheless, the right horse can be a cause of fun and enjoyment.

After you have decided to buy a horse, the first thing to make is a listing of qualities you require in your horse. Your specifications may include color, pedigree, breed, size, gender, age, price or other attributes. You have to also foresee the horse’s planned use whether being a riding horse on your own or the loved ones, or another use. Horses may also be owned as pets. Nonetheless horses are fairly high-priced as pets.. No horse is good for every need because different horses are trained for several things. You have to find a horse that is suited to your objective.

To browse a huge choice of ponies of different breeds that are for sale online right now, please browse: Ponies for Sale.

It is not easy to judge a horse only by its looks. You must inspect the horse you need to buy and check for its health, training and temperament. You will need to find out how the horse behaves if you are standing nearby and also if you are riding. If you land yourself a sick horse or even an ill mannered one, you could be in for a lot of troubles. Your trainer, a friend who knows the ways of the horses or some one else is usually a great resource when you are deciding on your horse. An X ray check by a vet can confirm that the horse has any hidden problems; the vet can also check about the shots and the health status.

Owning a horse has a lot of connected matters to take care of. You should think of the boarding, the feed and also the attention that the horse will require. When you have found your horse, you have to find ways to transport it. You have to check if your local area has any law relating to owning horses or their insurance. Horses have personality and just how it will adjust to your family members can also be relevant.

Because horses are pricey, there might be always scope to get a bargain. You can search for options through your trainer or visit horse shows or anywhere linked to horses to find horse that are on the block and can be a good bargain. Local barns are useful resources to look at before advancing towards Internet searches. Many horse trainers will not have a web presence. You must spend some time looking into your choices.

Horses demand lots of patience on your part. You ought to be conscious of the financial duty of the horse’s need of regular training, maintenance and care. Should you be the slightest bit uncertain about obtaining a horse, do not wait for too long to decide to not have one. This way you may really be wasting a lot of people’s time and your money. Horses happen to be fancied for generations around the world. A good horse can be a way to obtain fun and happiness for a lengthy period. And only then the long steps involved in scrutinizing the horses for sale and choosing the right match for you comes to a very satisfying and happy ending!

For a huge selection of horses for sale take a look at one of the top equestrian sites online today.

The connection between you and a horse you’re destined to buy, begins the moment the two of you lock eyes across a crowded paddock. The decision to buy a horse isn’t made based on price but on the connection that forms between horse and rider. A horse sales advertisement doesn’t create that same bond of spirit. You lose some of that feeling when you’re working with a picture.

For one of the most popular horses and ponies for sale websites in the UK and USA that list thousands of Horses for Sale as well as Horse and Ponies for Loan check out Horses Wanted.

To place your horse with the right environment you’re going to have to make sure your ad is appealing to the right buyer.

A good horse sales advertisement is one that hooks the interest of a rider able to work with your horse. Be sure to include a basic description of your horse, including their age, height, location, breed and chronic health problems that might influence their performance. If you’re selling a thoroughbred for competition their dam and sire should be included. Horses are often judged by the performance of their sire or dam, particularly by breeders and serious competitors.

If you are looking for one of the most popular top equestrian websites for the Sale and Loan of Horses and Ponies then check out Horses for Sale.

From there, move on to a quick summary of your horse’s training and performance history. Are you selling a experienced racer or show horse or a comfortable riding hack? Their training is going to heavily influence your buyers’ ability to recognize that your horse is the right choice for their needs.

What kind of disposition does your horse possess? As much as some sellers would like you to believe that all horses are have exactly the same personalities, if you’re selling a beloved member of the family you know better. Some horses are high strung and need a steady hand on the reins, others are gentle and perfect for young riders. Their disposition (including their ability to travel and interact with other horses) is going to be a considering factor in their appeal on the sales market.

The key to successful horse sales is to thoroughly present their disposition, history and talent, price and location into a small, single advert. That’s the only way you’re going to be able to catch the eye of the type of buyer your horse deserves.

A well known maker of classical leather saddles, the Pessoa AO Saddle (also recognize as the Amo or Amateur Owner Saddle) is their best selling jump saddle. Though geared at amateurs, this saddle appeals to a broad range of riders thanks to its first-class comfort, quality and build. Allowing the rider to select amongst regular or lengthened flaps is one of various design options. Key to the look and feel is the deep wide seat with square cantles.

The much loved features of the Pessoa collection are integrated into this saddle. The calf skin is wonderfully soft and hides the latest in saddle technology within:

• Adjustable Gullet: The saddle tree can be refined using the xChange gullet system.  This allows you to match the saddle perfectly to your horse.
• BayFlex Panels: An modern memory material that offers the ultimate comfort to both horse and rider by adjusting and adapting to the applied pressure.

It’s simple to see why this saddle is so popular with innovations like these.

Real Riders

The longevity of the Pessoa AO Saddle is one thing that sticks out when you hear real riders talk about this saddle. These saddles will last and last with all but a minor concern to maintenance.  You may decide to upgrade, but it won’t be because you need to. Satisfaction means that riders seldom try another once they’ve owned a Pessoa saddle.  The value for money and satisfaction in owning the saddle is convincing.

Likes

• The leather is exceptionally supple and comfortable right from the beginning and the Bayflex reduces the chance of the saddle rubbing as your horse gets adapted to it.
• Great for all shapes and sizes, this saddle is well matched for wider horses and ponies. Though the XCH system can permit you to tailor the match to most animals.
• It’s flexible with out being sloppy meaning you’ll notice the comfort without sacrificing security in your seat.

Dislikes

• Perhaps due to the XCH system, a few riders comment the saddle may appear to sit high on the withers.

The above opinions of real riders will hopefully be useful when you’re trying to choose your saddle.

The Pessoa AO Saddle is consequently a excellent choice for those looking for a performance leather saddle that won’t take the bank. The last step is to find the right store. This squad is put together by horse lovers, for horse lovers. With wonderful customer service and satisfaction promise check out the previous links. With a 10% deduction on a Pessoa ao saddle it’s a terrific time to spoil yourself.