Bitless Bridles & Clicker Training

by Sheri
(NJ)

Hi Elaine-

Well my first question is about the bitless bridle. I was thinking of trying on both my horses, but I have been riding one in a natural halter, and the other OTTB- only rode a few times anyway. I'm wondering if it is better that riding with a halter, and if so- how?

Second question.... I have been doing PNH with my mares, but my TB is exceptionally sensitive to my body language, and I know that this is good, but sometimes I'm not even sure I'm changing my body language- only thinking something, and she does it.

I was wondering if I start with the clicker training- is it something that I have to do forever or change what I am already doing? (PNH).
Any info would be so helpful-
Thank You

Sheri

Answer:

Hi Sheri,

The old saying, “If it isn’t broken, then don’t fix it” applies here. If you are having great success with just a natural halter then there is no reason to change. The bitless bridles are most appealing for those who were transitioning from a bitted bridle to no bit and wanted the feeling and comfort that the bitless still looks like a regular bridle. Because you have PHN experience with the rope halters (that’s all I use 99% of the time) and feel it works for you, stick with it.

What you are experiencing with the sensitivity part is pure positive energy flowing between you and your horse that is why it seems you only need to think a thought and she reacts. That’s a great connection. If you want to increase the understanding, Clicker Training will do just that!

The great part about Clicker Training is it works like the perfect marriage with Natural Horsemanship. What you will discover is a more accurate tool for your horse and you to communicate effectively. And once you discover another tool for your tool belt, you won’t want to work without it! So no, you don’t give up anything, you are adding to your abilities and that’s a great thing!

Elaine Polny
Training Horses Naturally