Ken McNabb: How to Bridle Your Horse | Correct Bridling & Bit Adjustment

When it comes to bridling, there are four basic trouble spots that people run into: 1) mouth, 2) eyes, 3) ears, and 4) head elevation. In order to bridle a horse with ease, you must be able to touch his mouth, eyes, and ears without too much hassle from him. If he allows you to touch these areas, but still throws up his head when you attempt to bridle him, he has likely learned to get a release that way. That is an issue we will address on another day.
I like to bridle my horses in a way makes the process comfortable for them, and easy for me. I like to hold the bit and chin strap with one hand, and my headstall in the other over the top of his head. This method ensures no grinding or clanking on his teeth as I gently guide the bit into his mouth.
Bit fit: Some of this is personal opinion. Many people use the “two wrinkle” rule, as I did growing up, but now I like to have a bit barely touching the corners of the mouth. I believe a bit that is too tight teaches a horse to gape his mouth in search of release, and it takes away his ability to be soft.
As for the rest of the bridle, I want my headstall to be even on both sides, and the browband to sit in the groove between the orbital bones and the ears. The throat latch should be loose enough that the horse can still breathe while flexing, but tight enough that headstall won’t come off over the ears.
THANK YOU, Weaver Leather, for always keeping me and my horses outfitted in top quality products that keep us safe, comfortable, and performing our best for every job - whether out on the ranch or in the arena.
May God bless the trails you ride.
- Ken

[@traceyhallman8913]

Good to see you back...

[@gracechristianschoolcypres3189]

Great reminders. Hope the leg healed up nicely and you continue to feel better.

[@drpepper5709]

Thank you Ken

[@amberscott9760]

My house kicks me straight out and she backs up when I approach with the bridle and she is not ear shy she puts her head down however she is mouth sensitive to the touch even on her nose and with your hand near her mouth she was bridled before with a snaffle and rode fine get her home she won’t take a bit and won’t bridle and this kicking out at me is dangerous any suggestions thanks so much love your content ❤

[@lehtichafee8849]

Need help. My horse throws her head when you bridle her So you have a video for problem bridling?