Comments on: How to Bridle a Horse

on 11/9/2008 Step #12: This step confused me -- "chin strap" sounds like you are speaking about the "throat latch" that fastens under the throat where the horse's head joins the neck. The "chin strap" is usually associated with the bit, either snaffle or curb, and goes in the groove of the horse's chin. If you try to buy a "chin strap," you will find curb chains and leather straps that go under the chin, fastened to the bit. You could use an additional step discussing placement of chin straps with bits and reins.

Otherwise, nice instructions.

on 10/15/2008 cool!

on 3/4/2008 Something else that helps the horse accept the bit..peppermint oil (if your horse likes peppermints...then again, what horse doesn't?) Just a drop or two on the bit is all you need.

on 3/4/2008 Something else that helps the horse to accept the bit....some peppermint oil on the bit (if your horse likes peppermints). Just a drop or two is all you need. Works like a charm.

on 3/4/2008 Something else that helps the horse to accept the bit....some peppermint oil on the bit (if your horse likes peppermints). Just a drop or two is all you need. Works like a charm.

on 9/23/2006 If your horse is tossing his head when you put the bridle on, you may be using a bit that is too harsh (hard on the horse's mouth). Make sure that you don't have a really harsh bit on a horse that responds well.

on 9/23/2006 If, after you put the bit in your horses mouth, he appears to be chewing on his bit, make sure that his tongue is under the bit, because if it's over it can be very painful. Also, make sure that the bridle is not too tight, because that can cause discomfort and even injury.

on 8/8/2006 If your horse hates the bit, try putting some honey or molasses on the bit. I promise you it will work!

on 8/8/2006 If the horse won't accept the bit, it could be your fault. Look down and make sure you are holding it directly to the horse's mouth and not to the side. And don't jam it! Ask your horse to accept it gently. Watch out for bumping it on your horses teeth!

on 7/23/2006 My horse is sometimes is stubborn and won't open his mouth wide enough for the bit (snaffle). I smear molasses on the bit (just a very small amount) to get him to accept the bit.

on 7/6/2006 First, you want to put the reins and martingale over the horse's head, then quickly remove the halter and slip the bit into the horse's mouth. Slide the bridle up to his ears, and than adjust the nose band, throat latch and flash (if the bridle has one). Remember, the martingale is attached to the nose band. When adjusting the nose band and throat latch, make sure not to make it too tight. If you are unsure, have an instructor check it. Flash goes before the bit, not behind it!

on 6/30/2006 If your horse hates the bit, try putting some honey or molasses on it before asking your horse to take it. I promise you it will work!

on 3/28/2006 If your horse won't accept the bit, try putting a little bit of food in his mouth right before you put the bit in. He will open his mouth so you can quickly slip the bit into his mouth.

on 2/25/2006 When training a horse, rubbing the bit with a slice of apple makes it easier for the horse to accept it, especially the first few times you try to bridle a horse. A bit of honey would also work well; might as well give him a treat.

on 1/31/2006 Before you bridal your horse, warm up the bit by holding it in your hand for a couple of minutes. Horses don't like the bit to be cold.