How to put on a bridle

Your bridle is one of the ways you communicate with your pony, so putting it on and fitting it correctly is super-important for helping you to listen to each other while you ride, as well as making him comfortable while he works. Here’s how to do it…

The right fit

Putting on your pony’s bridle’s super-simple – here’s how…

1. Start by undoing the rope your pony’s tied up with, leaving it looped through the string but not tied. 
2. Remove his headcollar and loop it around his neck to keep him still.
3. Stand next to your pony’s left shoulder and put the reins over his head.
4. With the bridle in your right hand, pull it up so the bit’s just in front of his mouth. Use your left hand to open your pony’s mouth so he accepts the bit.
5. Pull the bridle up over his ears and settle it comfortably on his head.
6. Do up the throatlash then his noseband, fastening the flash strap last if he has one.

You should be able to fit two fingers between your pony’s nose and the noseband, and a closed fist between his cheek and the throatlash to make sure they aren’t restricting him at all. The browband should be fairly loose and the headpiece shouldn’t sit too tightly around his ears.

TOP TIP

If your pony lifts his head when you try to put his bridle on, bend his neck around you slightly – this will help keep him where you need him!

TOP TIP

If your pony suddenly becomes difficult when you put his bridle on, ask your vet to check whether his teeth need rasping because they could be making him uncomfortable when the bit’s in his mouth.