It is quite surprising to see that the natural response of a domesticated animal can turn into a hazard. However, such is the case with head throwing. Many factors give rise to this action, some of which you cannot control. But, you can somewhat control the damages that it may cause by using a good gentle horse bit.
This blog will help you identify the top 3 products available on the market that can be used. These products will help you understand what the horse is trying to communicate with its head throwing as well.
Overview of the Top Bits for Horses That Throw Their Heads
Comparison Table
| Horse Bit | Weaver Leather 5″ | Western Bit AT Low Port | Myler 3 Loose Ring |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Sweet iron with copper roller | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Mouthpiece Type | Snaffle | Low port | Snaffle |
| Comfort Features | Copper roller, 360-degree movement | Low port for tongue relief | Even pressure distribution |
| Intended Use | Communication device | Enhancing turning abilities | Fixing head throwing |
| Popular Applications | General riding, training | Calming nervous horses | Hunting, dressage, jumping |
Ranking List
Best Overall: Weaver Leather 5″ Short Shank Horse Bit
This horse bit stands out as the best overall choice due to its excellent design, including a sweet iron mouthpiece with a copper roller for comfort and 360-degree movement. Its multiple leverage options and rusting feature contribute to its versatility and effectiveness in addressing head-throwing issues.
Runner Up: Western Bit AT Low Port
This horse bit earns the runner-up position by offering a unique solution for horses trained to respond to leg cues or neck reining. Its low port design provides tongue relief, removing pressure and promoting calmness. With the added benefit of short shanks, it enhances communication based on intentions and aids in curbing head-throwing tendencies.
Budget Pick: Myler 3 Loose Ring
For those seeking an affordable yet reliable option, this horse bit is a recommended budget pick. Its even pressure distribution throughout the mouth ensures a comfortable fit, while being widely used and approved for professional equestrian events like hunting, dressage, and jumping.
Best Horse Bits for a Head-Throwing Horse: Reviews
Here we’ll review the finest horse bits for a horse that throws his head in detail.
1. Weaver Leather 5″ Horse Bit – Best Overall
When it comes to the best bit on the market for a head-throwing horse, the Weaver Leather 5″ Short Shank Horse Bit takes the cake.
The product is made from a sweet iron mouthpiece that is fitted with a copper roller for maximum comfort and allows for 360-degree movement. The design is extremely forgiving and works extremely well as a communication device with the horse.
This product is designed to rust, producing a sweet taste that leads to salivation, making the bit even more comfortable. It comes with three different levels of leverage; mild, moderate, and strong leverage.
We believe this Weaver Leather bit is the best bit for a horse that throws his head overall. It’s because it combines a sweet iron mouthpiece, copper roller, and versatile leverage options for effective communication and maximum comfort.
Pros:
- Replaces pain with pressure
- Allows for 360-degree movement
- More comfortable than traditional bits
- Promotes salivation for more comfort
Cons:
- Might require a lot of periodic cleaning
2. Western Bit Horst Bit – Runner Up
If your horse has been trained to respond better to leg cues or reigning of neck, this Western bit by AT Low Port might be the best choice for you.
This product replaces the expectation of pain with tongue relief with the help of the added low port.
The bit incorporates short shanks. They provide a warning to your horse that the bit engagement will follow soon after. This will allow you to remove both pain and pressure from the equation and communicate based on intentions.
The low port bit removes the pressure and replaces it with comfort to allow nervous horses to calm down. Taking care of the nerves of your horse will help you get rid of head throwing indefinitely.
This product helps horses cure head throwing and enhance their turning capabilities.
That said, we consider the Western Bit AT Low Port as a strong runner-up for horses that throw their heads. Its low port design provides tongue relief, while the short shanks offer clear signals and the ability to calm nervous horses.
Pros:
- Allows your horse to have an easier time grazing
- Provides leverage to work with strong horses
- Works with horses trained for neck reining
Cons:
The mild bit can become extremely discomforting if paired with a heavy rein
3. Myler 3 Loose Ring Horse Bit – Budget Pick
For horses too stubborn for anything to work on them, try the Myler 3 Loose Ring comfort bit. This bit provides the horse with pressure, however, it is distributed evenly throughout the mouth.
This makes the bit very comfortable to wear, without pinching or poking at the tongue of the horse.
The Myler Rings are best used when pain and pressure don’t seem to fix your horse’s head-throwing problems.
This product has been widely famous. Professional athletes use this product to better communicate with their horses during hunting, dressage, and jumping events.
Also, the product is approved by USEK and FEI. This means that even when using this product, you will still be eligible to take part in these events.
To sum up, this Myler 3 Loose Ring earns our budget pick for horses with head-throwing issues. It ensures comfort with even pressure distribution and is approved for professional events, making it a reliable and affordable choice.
Pros:
- Improves head tossing
- Removes pain and uncomfortable pressure
- Works with sensitive-tongued horses
- Allows for rein cues to be issued
Cons:
- Large-tongued horses might find the bit a little constricting
Why Trust HorsyPlanet?
When it comes to finding the best products for your equine companion, HorsyPlanet is the ultimate go-to resource. As the creator and author of this insightful blog, I am dedicated to providing you with accurate and unbiased recommendations for horse-related products. With a passion for horses and a commitment to thorough research, HorsyPlanet is your trusted companion in making informed decisions.
At HorsyPlanet, I personally analyze and evaluate a wide range of products designed specifically for horses. Whether it’s bits, saddles, grooming tools, or any other equine gear, I leave no stone unturned in my quest to find the top options available in the market. My evaluations are based on various factors, including extensive research, price value, customer reviews, and the overall performance of the products.
What sets HorsyPlanet apart is its unwavering dedication to impartiality. I prioritize transparency and ensure that my recommendations are not influenced by any external factors. Your trust is paramount, and I strive to maintain it by presenting you with accurate and reliable information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although most of the time the behavior is a natural response to external stimuli, sometimes the reason can be a problem. A horse that cannot stop throwing his head regardless of the absence of external stimuli might be forced to do so due to a medical condition. In such a situation, you need to take your mount to its vet and ensure that everything is in order before opting for a bit.
If your horse is excessively throwing his head, it is highly likely that it’s suffering from a problem. Instead of punishing this behavior with pain, we suggest opting for a bit that trains your horse with the help of pressure or seeking professional medical help.
Yes, there are quite a few medical conditions that can cause a horse to throw his head. Some of them are insect irritation, vision or eye irritations, allergies, ear or head pain, oral problems, or neurologic problems. When the horse is exhibiting the behavior only when a rider is on its back, the most likely cause of it is pain. This could be dental pain or even back pain. In such a case, make sure to visit the vet for better advice.
Some horses exhibit head throwing due to a condition called head shaking syndrome. This condition is formed when your horse has hyper-sensitive nerves in the facial region and can feel persisting pain in its muzzle or face. In such a case, even the slighting stimulus can reap large reactions as the nerves are extremely sensitive and working in over-drive. If your horse is exhibiting such behavior, it is best to let it rest a few days to let the nerves calm down, before riding him again.
Yes, you can as there are quite a few bits that will help you replace pain with pressure. Although some of these bits might be a little uncomfortable to wear, if you spend the time and effort to look for a suitable one, you will be able to help your horse get rid of the habit without causing them any pain. To find such products, consider going through our list of best bits provided above.
Most horses, regardless of their breed, will throw their heads. This is a usual response to external stimuli such as insects, or flies. A horse will throw its head in order to shoo away flies and gnats that are proving to be annoying for the horse.
Conclusion
Although it can be challenging to find the right bit for your horse, putting in the time and effort to find one will be well worth the effort when your horse is able to communicate with you better.
When you decided to buy yourself such a luxurious animal, you made the conscious decision to provide it with the best life you can possibly provide. And a big aspect of that is to ensure your horse has a comfortable time when being ridden or resting.
However, with the help of the bits on this list, you can rest assured that your horse will never go through any pain or suffering, ever again.
