How to Fit a Full Cheek Snaffle Bit
Fitting a horse with a full cheek snaffle is an easy task, provided the horse is accustomed to the bitting process. As this process is applicable to nearly every bit, except for some complex gag, curb or combination type bits, it is a useful skill for every rider and horse owner to learn. A badly fitted bit causes many problems, so learning the proper way to fit one will make both horse and rider happy.
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Instructions
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Tie the horse in a quiet area. Ensure that it is accustomed to being bitted. Get the bridle.
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Unhook the halter and reattach it so that it is around the horse's neck only, not its nose. Hold the top of the bridle in your right hand, and cradle the bit gently in your left palm. Guide the bridle onto the horse gently. Try not to bang the horse's teeth; this will, understandably, encourage the horse to fight being bridled in the future.
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Check the bit to make sure that it is the correct width. When pulled gently to the side so that it is flat against the horse's cheek/mouth on one side, there should be about a finger width's room on the other side between its mouth and the end of the bit's mouthpiece.
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Adjust the bridle so that it is centered. Then raise or lower the bit by adjusting, equally on each side, the cheek pieces where they meet the upper portion of the bridle. It fits properly when there is approximately one wrinkle on either side of the horse's mouth.
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Tips & Warnings
Every horse is different, so some may work better with a loose bridle (no wrinkles on the mouth) or with a tighter one (two wrinkles). Many top trainers prefer to ride their horses with the bridle set more loosely as it encourages the horse to keep its mouth closed and hold the bit itself. This does not work for all horses, however.
Always watch your fingers when working in and around the horse's mouth. After all, a human finger is approximately the same size and color as a carrot.
