How to Put a Bridle on a Horse

Putting a bridle on a horse is definitely something that takes some patience and technique. Of course, it is a good bit easier if you have a very docile, well trained horse. But in any scenario, you do not want to create a bad experience for you or the horse. Because then you will have problems down the road.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Before you even attempt to bridle the horse, make sure he is comfortable with you touching him around his head, ears, mouth and face. If you have been training him, this should have been started in the very beginning when you first put a halter on him. Simply run your hands around the top of his head and ears, then down his face toward his mouth. If he tosses his head or pins his ears, then it is a good idea to get someone else to help you bridle him when the time comes. Otherwise, just keep touching him for a bit to get him used to you.

2. Try to be sure you are in a secure place, such as a stall or small paddock, when you put the bridle on. If you are in an open space like a field, your horse has better opportunity to spook and run off.

3. Place the reins over your horse's head and let them hang loosely over the base of her neck while the halter is still on. This will give you some control in case she spooks. Then gently slip the halter off and get ready to put the bridle on.

4. Take the crown of the bridle with your right hand, and gently lift it up where it is resting just above your horse's forehead. If he will lower his head enough, you can actually drape your arm up over the top of his neck, and place your hand between his ears as you hold the crown of the bridle in the spot mentioned above.

5. Cradle the bit in your left hand. One end should drape through your thumb and forefinger, the other between two of your other fingers, whichever is most comfortable. This takes a little practice. The idea is to use your thumb, as you hold the bit, to slide into the very back area of your horses mouth to encourage her to open it. This part of your horse's mouth does not have any teeth, so you do not risk being bitten.

6. Work the bit right up to the front of your horse's mouth against his lips, being careful not to bump it against his teeth. Then slide the thumb into that soft, back part of the mouth to encourage him to open it. He should respond fairly quickly, and when he does, simply slide the bit in. Then carefully and smoothly slip the crown of the bridle over your horses ears. Make sure you untangle any part of his mane that may be wrapped around the leather at the top of his head. Then buckle in the chin strap and caveson (if your bridle has this).

Tips & Warnings

• Never try to force the bit into your horse's mouth. This does not work. And you will create a bad experience that will make it difficult to bridle your horse in the future.
• If your horse becomes nervous or agitated during any part of this process, stop, take some time to calm him, and then start all over again.
• As mentioned above, if you are dealing with a horse that is head shy, ask someone to assist you in putting the bridle on. This is important for your safety, and the safety of the animal.

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