Is it Time to Change Bits?

While enjoying a ride with your best horse, she throws her head in frustration and pins her ears. You chalk it up as an off day, one of many as of late, but it could be much more than that.

“It is important to understand what the bit is doing and what to watch for,” cautions Chris Blevins, MS, DVM, Associate Professor, Equine Field Service with Kansas State University. “It is our responsibility to keep our horses comfortable.”

If your horse is experiencing bit pain and discomfort, you may notice signs of bit resistance.

“There are several signs of bit resistance,” says Judy Auble, with Toklat and Myler bits. “The best way to determine whether your horse needs a new bit is to pay attention to how your horse reacts to your rein action and rein pressure.”

Could it be time to change bits? Watch for these warning signs:

Inverting, when horses ride with their muzzles held high

Riding behind the vertical, as horses tuck their nose into the chest

Gaping, when horses drop their jaws behind the vertical, relieving tongue pressure

Running through the bit or being heavy on the bit

Riding with their tongue out of the mouth

Consistent throwing of head and pinning of ears

“If you think your horse is experiencing bit resistance, look for the behavior repeated frequently and routinely,” Auble said. “When a horse inverts only once in a while, or is fussing because his trail buddies left him on the trail, it could be more of a behavior or training issue.” Signs of bit resistance also could pinpoint to dental health issues.

When exploring new bit options for your horse, take into consideration not only what you are doing with your horse, but also which mouthpiece best fits your riding style, recommends Dr. Blevins.

Learn which bit level is appropriate for your horse’s performance needs, and find an extensive selection of mouthpieces here.