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Discussion on Is it too young to use a bit on this horse & start training to drive?
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Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2000 - 1:49 am:
Hi All,
More questions on training I'm afraid. lol. I have a yearling TWH, and after I finish her ground manners (sadly neglected since I got her in March - shame on me) I am hoping to start her in harness. Just ground driving, learning left & right, stopping, perhaps a little backing. Not much, just basic training.
What I am wondering is if this filly is too young to put a bit on? I was going to find a snaffle pony bit that fits her and use that but will she have teeth problems do you think?
If I don't start her in harness this winter I plan on starting her sometime next summer.
How should I introduce the bit to her? I am hoping to work with a trainer in my area but would also like other suggestions.
Also is it ok to be trotting her (while leading her in halter) over poles & such? Just poles laid on the ground, not very big ones. And I would make no sharp turns; mainly just straight lines.
Thanks!
Laura B.
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Posted on Thursday, Oct 19, 2000 - 7:27 pm:
My filly was allowed to play with the bit in her mouth at a young age (holding it in her mouth to get the feel of it for a couple minutes but no pressure was ever placed on it) however I personally felt their attention span at that age is a still too short to do any serious driving training. There is so much to be done at that age in just a halter and lead that will set a solid foundation. If you really want to try driving her, I would be more inclined to hook the lines on the side a soft halter. This would accomplish the same thing which is "giving to pressure and following your nose" without risking damageing a young mouth or causing her pain that would surely develope into a poor work attitude.
Good luck and have fun!
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