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  Discussion on What age to introduce a bit?
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Posted on Wednesday, Mar 29, 2000 - 2:48 pm:

At what age do you introduce a bit to a youngster, all the books just say 'when they are ready'!!

Posted on Friday, Mar 31, 2000 - 9:56 am:

The answer is "when they are ready"! Sorry, couldn't resist, but it's pretty true. I introduced the bit to my guy about a month ago, when he was 23 months. How old is your young'un?

Posted on Friday, Mar 31, 2000 - 8:22 pm:

Claire,

I introduced the bit to my girl when she was just over two years old. I used a rubber covered bit and just popped it in her mouth with my hands (no bridle) with a touch of molasses on it. Repeated that then with the bridle and she didn't mind a bit!

Posted on Saturday, Apr 1, 2000 - 6:23 am:

He is only just coming up for one. There just seems to be lots of conflicting advice out there - people I have asked have said various things from 6 months to three years.
Thanks

Posted on Saturday, Apr 1, 2000 - 3:21 pm:

I am not very experienced with horses but I'll give it my best shot. You'll know when she is ready to be introduced to the bit when you think its the next step. If you tought her everything she should know for her age, make her accept the bit as a next step. I am not a horse expert so the horse experts out there, am I right?

Posted on Sunday, Apr 2, 2000 - 9:02 am:

I think it depends on the breed, Claire. Not ever before 2 years old, I've always been taught, but with some breeds - Lippizaners, big warmbloods, etc. - not before 3 years old as they mature so late. But after 2, it certainly doesn't hurt to introduce him to the bit, get him used to the feeling of it in his mouth, as long as you are not riding so not using it.

Posted on Monday, Apr 3, 2000 - 11:58 am:

Lots of people have their kids well broken to a bit and bridle when by the time they are two. Most warmblood inspections require that 2 year olds be presented in a bridle. Also, many of these warmblood breeders are ground driving the 2 year olds, teaching them what the bit means, how to steer, etc. The big thing you have to watch for with these big guys is the size of the bit. My 2yo now wears a 5" bit, but I'm afraid I may have to do 5 1/4" by the time I'm ready to get on.
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