Cart training

[debbiesshelties]

Hello,

I am hoping to have a couple of my geldings cart trained. Can anyone recommend a bit and how do you measure for it?

 

[Buckskin gal]

We like to start with a plain ole mullen mouth bit. Before bitting we do like to teach all the commands we want them to know and even ground drive them with reins attached to sides of halter. This way they can stay very light on the bit once one is used. Sure you will get different opinions but this is what we like. good luck and lots of fun driving. Mary

Hello,

I am hoping to have a couple of my geldings cart trained. Can anyone recommend a bit and how do you measure for it?

 

[Sue_C.]

We like to start with a plain ole mullen mouth bit. Before bitting we do like to teach all the commands we want them to know and even ground drive them with reins attached to sides of halter. This way they can stay very light on the bit once one is used. Sure you will get different opinions but this is what we like.

DITTO!! A mullen mouth is the mildest of snaffles, next, french link, or double-jointed,, then onto single jointed. It is always best to begin with the mildest.

Also, I recommend you spend some extra $$ and get a good bit, no matter which mouth-piece you decide on. The bits that come with most harness packages, are NOT what I would ever use.

Sorry...had to edit because I forgot the question about measuring for a bit.

: If you put a new pencil through the mouth, where a bit would lie...and measure the width of where the bit enters and exits the mouth...that is the width you need. Most, (certainly not all) minis take a 3.5 inch bit. I have only had one that took smaller, and one other which took larger...all the others (thankfully) took a "regular" 3.5 inch.

 

[Tammy]

I always start with a straight bar bit, as I have found them to be the softest on new horses mouths. You can always move up in harshness to a snaffle if they are not responding, but in my experience, new horses without any driving experience do not have a problem responding. Start gentle. I also use a 3 1/2" bit on my minis, but measure their mouth like suggested earlier. Straight bar bits are not very expensive, but you do not need to spend a lot to get a quality bit. Any miniature tack dealer will have them for sale. Try Ozark Mountain. Hope this helps.