Last month, we discussed basic prerequisites to bridling your horse, which included physical issues to consider as well as exercises to ensure your horse is trusting and willing to let you handle his head. Now I'd like to share with you my favorite method of bridling.
First, make sure your bridle is not going to be too tight. Just hold it up next to your horse's head and err on the side of adjusting it a little too loose. Now, ask your horse to lower his head. If you have a loop rein, pass it over his head and let it rest on his neck. You may now choose to remove his halter or leave it on. You'll see in the photo I have tied Tucker's halter around his neck and have the lead draped over my arm. If something unexpected happened, I'd still have a hold of my horse.
Next hold the crownpiece of the bridle in your right hand and slip your arm between his ears. The fact you have a bit near his mouth may cause him to want to throw his head up again. Don't be surprised - work through this slowly, releasing and taking the bridle away when he is relaxed.
Next, take your left hand, cradle the bit in it and gently slip your thumb into the corner of his mouth. Most horses will open their mouth, and at this point gently draw the bit up into his mouth with your right hand as your left hand supports and guides. Personally, I slip a cookie in with the bit - it just helps your horse look forward to taking it! Depending on your horse's personality, you may decide to do that or not.
Then, still asking the horse to keep his head lowered and softly flexed towards you, slip each ear in and buckle the throatlatch. If at any time he becomes resistant, wait until he is soft again, relax yourself, and then proceed.
Finally, adjust the headstall so the bit is correctly placed in his mouth.
It is just as important to take the bridle off carefully! Rather than just pulling the bit out of his mouth, ask him to lower his head and then reverse the above procedure. As you lower the bit in his mouth a little he should softly begin to mouth it out. If he throws his head up at first, don't lower it anymore - wait until he relaxes and softens and begin again. Be careful it does not clank his teeth. The first few tries might take a bit of patience and timing, but it will pay off in the end.
