Last year my horse hit her head in her stall and ended up hitting and damaging a nerve that caused the entire left side of her face to droop and essentially was paralyzed aside from her eyelid. She is completely fine now (it took about a year for the nerve to regrow) and she never had a problem being ridden but I just wanted to point out how insanely easy it is for someone (or something) to hit a nerve on the horse's face even without having anything on their face such as a bridle to begin with.
henriette oakheart and no, that's not the point of the video. You've entirely missed the point. It's that both use the same ideas pressure for communication and can be misused.
Shelby touched on the topic that a horse has many nerves that are located just under the surface of the horse's skin, and I was just noting that it is extremely easy for these nerves to be damaged even without a bridle or anything on the horse's face.
Hi Shelby. Good job on your very informed and well thought out points of view re BITS!! (There's a lot of crazy internet jargon on this topic.)) I'm curious though what information or points of view you would have regarding bits such as sweet iron, that increase mouth salivation and therein, comfort, versus increasingly popular rubber bits (as you use?). Would rubber bits not be potentially more severe than some metal bits which cause salivation/mouth lubrication?? Thnks
randipandiable I think it's more high key because she was way too many impressionable subscribers to be feeding that much false information to and presenting it as fact.
I really love this. Also would like to mention that when people talk about bitless they're eager to tell everyone that the metal in the mouth is harsh, but somehow forget that there are hackamores with metal nose bands or rawhide ones (mostly present in bosals I think though). They also neglect to mention that there are some hectic shanks on hackamores that people would really question that much leverage on a bit in the mouth, but extreme leverage on the nose is fine because it's not as harsh as the mouth or whatever. There are tools and there are torture devices with both bits and bitless, just like there is abuse and neglect in western and English. You can't just pick the good parts of the side of the fence you're on whilst throwing dirt at people standing on the other side.
@@grandprixsposiedon5591 agree. No matter What harsh bits are disgusting. Bike chain/tight twists are awful and can ruin a horse. Most humane equipment shouldn't harm a horse.
I agree, but there are also exceptions like chain bits and spike bits. Those are disgusting and work by purposefully causing the horse a large amount of pain. But yeah, most of the time, it's the improper use of perfectly fine equipment that causes abuse.
This isn't an attack on bitless riding whatsoever. If pointing out bitless riding uses pressure to communicate (just like bits) and that it can cause pain when misused and that horses may have preferences makes you feel attacked, then that says an awful lot about how open you are to new information. People are so quick to attack bits but never talk about how bitless options can be misused and how they actually work OR about any findings on how they work in comparison to bits. That's why I chose to talk about this. This isn't an attack on bitless and if you truly think that, then you didn't watch the whole video because I clearly state numerous times that's it's important to choose what's best for YOUR horse and YOUR situation and judge things on a circumstantial basis. I also CLEARLY state that having a horse who's well rounded enough to both is a good thing. Again, if you genuinely think that this is an attack on bitless riding, either you didn't watch the entire video or you're so obsessed with thinking your views are right that you're allowing yourself to be dangerously ignorant about what you're using. Believing that bits OR bitless are perfect and can't be misused or cause pain ever is dangerous. You need to be realistic and not make blanket statements. If you're okay with someone making an entire video blatantly attacking bits and stating they're abusive, then you really shouldn't have a problem with me discussing both sides and bringing up points regarding bitless that are often never brought up in your bitted hate parades.
i dont know what youve responded to, someone sent me a link to your video. i told you where to find the research, videos of the skulls, etc. on bitless and beautiful for dressage on facebook, you just need to scroll down. i have also explained why there is not a lot of research, so we have to go with empirical evidence. i have helped dozens and dozens of people to transition to bitless riding, my entire riding school is bitless from the youngest students, to the oldest horses, we do everything anyone could want to do....bitless....so why should the horse be subjected to its teeth being clanked by a hunk of metal, or its tongue being pinched, or corners of its mouth bleeding? where is your proof that anyone has had any injuries nasal or otherwise? ive been asking for proof of this for years...no one ever seems to have the proof. but i can show you thousands of photos of the bit being misused, i am sure you have seen them too, so what are you arguing about? why do you want to defend the bit, you still have not voiced your motivation? and worse, why are you saying anything disparaging about riding bitless? some people did not want to believe that the earth was round, but that never really hurt anyone, believing that the bit is ok, hurts horses every day. there is a strong stench of denial lingering in the air here.
SummerWoodStables ... the bit doesn't sit where there are teeth so a correctly fitted bit cannot hit the teeth. Tongue will not get pinched unless the bit is poorly fitted. The mechanics of the bits I use make it physically impossible to pinch the tongue. Never ever had or seen a bloody mouth on any horse I've ridden or handled. Very uncommon. Doesn't happen unless you ride poorly. Kind of like causing your horses' nose to be raw from riding bitless badly. You are biased, you've stated completely false claims such as the bits clanking against teeth. The horses in your videos are hollow and not moving correctly. This is far more damaging than a correctly used bitted or bitless option could ever be.
SummerWoodStables I cited an article in which it went into detail about the sensitivity of the nasal area, along with including diagrams of the face and where the nerves lie. Along with citing a scientist who did a study that proved the cross under bitless bridle (which you use) has TWICE as much pressure build up as the typical snaffle. I have given you MORE than enough evidence. The nerves of the face and where the bitless bridle sits can tell you on their own how easily these can be misused. There are also photos of such out there on the internet where you can find but clearly you haven't looked (kind of like how you can't even scroll down to look at sources or actually watch the entire video). Still waiting to see the sources to back your claims.
SummerWoodStables You're the only one in denial, sweetheart. I've admitted both can be used and abused. It's very ignorant for a full grown adult to choose to be so deluded that they'll actually deny something that utilitizes pressure on sensitive nerves could possibly be misused. Your attitude is far more dangerous because you cannot possibly seem to fathom the fact that you can cause pain using bitless. Being aware of how you can harm your horse is important in learning how to avoid it, which I do and there's a reason why my horses are going more correctly than the ones in your videos and carrying themselves properly.
CAN WE GET THIS GIRL A GOLD MEDAL AND A DOZEN COOKIES? THIS IS THE BEST, WELL THOUGHT OUT RESPONSE VIDEO TO RALEIGHLINK14 I HAVE EVER SEEN. THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS.
Raleigh does state some sources in most of her videos, but all her claims about bits aren’t backed up and she even admits to that in her video about the topic (She basically says there is no evidence supporting the claim that bit generally cause pain). Yet she went on and criticized everyone for using bits, regardless of the fact if they were actually a cause for the problem. I do think she knows a lot about the stuff she is talking about, but some of her opinions are just stupid.
Came here because of a comment on rock gore saying “check out this girl she’s spreading false information that bits are good” I recognized the name from previous videos and wanted to check this out. Rick used Dr.Cook’s study (naturally) and it kind of pissed me off. I’m really glad you actually have sense and proof. I’m also glad you have facts to back what you say up and don’t use biased sources. Much love
I ride bitless for a reason, when I bought my horse her mouth was torn. Since she has a soft mouth I don't want her to go through that again. Bits aren't abuse, they could be abuse the way you use them. I do imagine myself using bits when I get new horses, depending on the age and personality. This is a very good video, some bit haters should see this! 😂 loved this video!
Jellie Jumping definitely, any item can be used to abuse a horse! I do both bitless and and bitted riding with my horse because he doesn't give a crap which we do he is equally happy.
Yep my trainer has a very soft horse and she has a hackamore and most of them in French link snaffles them as we call her nasty meatball pony in a Tom Thumb
bdjdu dhj my horse is the opposite. He HATES to ride bitless because when he chews the bit it relieves stress for him. When bitless he has no where to escape and gets stressed. Glad someone realizes that not every horse is the same unlike Raleigh
New viewer: so glad that I found you through JETeventing. I'd found awful riders, and super young riders, but other than professionals, it's been so hard to find sensible riders on YT. So happy!!
KB Equestrian my thoughts when I started watching this, lmao. Though I do agree with a few of her points in her video, she's extremely biased and doesn't list sources or facts etc.
Just do your research and also just do what makes your horse the happiest, some horses are perfectly happy in only bits and some horses are perfectly happy in only bitless options.
I really hate how many bitless riders bash riders who is bits. I joined a bitless riding group on Facebook because I wanted to see what good bitless bridles were out there and the majority of the people in that group were constantly bashing people who use bits, it doesn't help their case and it doesn't do anything for the horses either! I also don't like how some (but not the majority unlike bitless people) bitted people bash on bitless people as I don't think it is useful in anyway! The horse community needs to research before speaking and needs to just stop attacking other people for doing things differently!
One of my best friends has both horses bitless and that is the way those two horses are happiest, they don't work correctly in bits. So it really depends on the horse and the way the rider rides.
One mare at my barn has a very sensitive nose and hates anything touching on it to the point that her bridle doesn’t even have a noseband. She would literally kill anyone who tried to ride her bitless. 😂
You're one of the LEAST biased equestrian RUclipsrs I have watched. You deal with facts. You deal with accredited websites and sources, whereas other people, not naming any names but I think we all know who I'm talking about, just deal with their own opinions and treat them as facts. I'm so glad there's at least one non-biased equestrian RUclipsr who knows what she's dealing with and can explain things thoroughly. You have officially saved me.
My favorite claim to people saying bits are abusive is that "if you put a piece of metal in your mouth and pull on it, it will hurt!" First of all, we have a different mouth structure than horses, completely different. Second of all, even if you do put a piece of metal in your mouth, if it's just sitting there it doesn't hurt. Pull back or to the side a bit, it still doesn't hurt but you feel it move. Now if you yank on it vigorously then yes it will hurt. I HATE how people just automatically assume that bits are abusive even if the rider uses them properly. I once heard about one girl that yanked on her bit so hard that she cut her ponies toungue off😢 Poor pony...
You can find this information just about anywhere, but horses jawbones are knife sharp, and even in a bit as gentle as a leather bit or a trouble jointed snaffle, applying the slightest pressure forces the tongue onto that ridge. I am not saying that light contact with the bit is painful, but there is a lot more to bits than the media will care to discuss. If you look at the skulls of domestic horses v mustang's you will find that a large majority of the domestic horses have erosion along the jawbone where the bit will sit because of the pressure is applies to that region of the mouth over time. This is just to say that you need to consider the whole of the equation before making a decision on whether or not you think bits are acceptable because it's not about what we put on the horses, but how it affects them.
@@myfavoritefoodispastayumyu2693 I don't believe a horse would prefer a bit over a bitless bridle. I think mechanical hackamores are just as bad as bits, but in some cases worse due to the leverage that they use. Horses tend to dislike the cross under bridles because they have little to no release. Riding in a bitless sidepull is different than riding in a bitted bridle, a horse also does not naturally understand that transition. Transitioning a bitted horse to bitless is a process, just like teaching a horse how to respond to a bit. Many inexperienced riders who traditionally ride in bits will throw a bitless bridle on an uneducated horse and complain that their horse didnt like it, or didnt understand it, and it's simply because neither of the two have been trained properly with the tack.
Finally someone with actually research and understanding on bias information!! Being a uni student my self its basic understanding that bias exists and information as such should be considered for it. I ride both in a bit and bitless but for different situations and depending on how my horse is feeling, its not all black and white! This shows complete understanding of this, absolutely brilliant more people need to see this!
ThatRoanieBaby She also uses a mechanical hackamore with massive shanks on it. The leverage works the same as a bit, the fact she has big shanks on her hackamore is putting a lot of pressure on Links poll and his nose
I was completely against bits until I saw this. Now that I have more knowledge about the whole bitless vs bit debate, I'll definitely view it differently and pay more attention to the actual horse rather than what I believe, if that makes sense. Basically, if the horse doesn't look unhappy or uncomfortable is moving okay, it's okay. Thanks for opening my eyes. I honestly went into this video thinking I would leave angry about people's stupidity but I learned something. Thanks.
Kylie Weiffenbach Just wanted to say I really appreciate the fact that you listen and you are open to different points of view and not stubborn like most people. It's rare
I always feel it’s up to a persons good judgment. I was alright with people not liking bits or not wanting to ride in one, but what really frustrated me was when they’d say “it’s abuse”. But it’s nice that you’re very flexible 😁
Kylie Weiffenbach I am in the same boat! I watched so many videos and articles about bits being abuse. But this has given me more info! It’s really up to the horse and rider’s opinions. :)
THANK YOU for being the one to finally give a reasonable and unbiased opinion on this matter! There are too many people nowadays who despise bridles without knowing anything about them and how to properly use them all because of these "internet trainers" 😂😂
This is such an informative, trustworthy video. It presents both bitless and bitted as gentle as well as having the potential to cause harsh, unnecessary pain upon the horse. I feel reassured and that my views are supported on this big debate. Thank you for such a great video
I love how you don't attack anyone's opinion like Raleigh does. You point out information both good and bad for both sides. I love this video and I will definitely be sharing this! I actually felt like I gained braincells instead of losing them like when I watch Raleigh.
Shelby, you are a very mature young woman with very well thought out and planned responses to pressing issues and I agree with you 100%. Follow the science, not the biases, but in the end, do what's best for your individual horse. People jump on the fad bandwagons so fast without regard to what is actually best for the horse. I'm very lucky in that my horse can go bitted, bridleless, in a halter/leadrope, and he'd probably do just fine in an actual bitless bridle. But not all are that lucky. Some horses HATE bits, some HATE bitless. You do what's in your horse's best interest. Not what someone on the internet (who usually is very biases and usually not all that intelligent) tells you to.
Very well presented @shelbydennis. I've done a couple of course through Equine Guelph as well. It's a great school and amazing program. I'd also like to add to your video, the thickness of a bit is a HUGE factor as well. Many people who ride feel that a thin bit is cruel and a thick bit or even a HAPPY MOUTH bit better for the horse. On the contrary, it's horse dependant. For example, my mare has a very low pallet. Therefore, using a thick bit or a HAPPY MOUTH bit, OR a single joint is a lot more painful and leaves no room for her tongue. Large bits put my mare, Ember in quite a bit of distress. Once I switched to a double jointed thin bit, has made her a lot happier and she searches for contact. (She actually gets distressed and not sure what to do attitude when I ride her on the buckle with no contact. Since I'm with my mare daily, I know her and her little intricacies. To the equestrian readers, just remember that the horses anatomy does matter. A low pallet plays a huge part in what kind or thickness of bit to use. Again, great presentation Shelby!
I also feel like people forget not only the palette but the size of the mouth. Not every horse is 5 inches. Some are 4.5 " and some are 6" so having a bit with sides squeezing the mouth is an issue that is missed a lot as well. Many people do not know how to measure their horses mouth for a bit to get the correct size. This causes discomfort and while a slightly larger snaffle normal works "ok" anything with a curb or even a snaffle with cheek pieces make the improperly sized bit incredibly uncomfortable.
_Thank you_ for actually being educated and respectful! Nearly all the videos I’ve watched on this subject are people screeching about how bits are purely abuse, and they refuse to accept or even listen to anyone else’s opinion. It’s awesome to see someone actually stating facts instead of treating their opinions as facts.
KC Eventing I wouldn't feel comfortable doing that since I don't want to target her. This is just generalized because it's super inflammatory to tell everyone who rides in a bit that they're abusing their horses and it's not just who her thinks that. She's just someone with a big following that chose to spread that type of mindset
Shelby Dennis yeah, i assumed that answer! Thanks for being a mature rider and educating the equine world though! It honestly is so nice to see! The information was really interesting and thoughtful to share😊
Thank you so much for presenting this information in an unbiased manner. I will be looking up the sources you've cited to do more study myself. I agree that there should be options for those who wish to show bitted or bitless, but with the choices must come information and education as you stated
So many thumbs up Shelby!! I learned things i hasn't previously known so thank you for that. Also I can't wait to see if Miss All Bits Are Abusive does a response to this because at this point she really doesn't have a leg to stand on 🙌
I'm so glad I watched this! Before this, I was led to believe that bitless is ALWAYS better, but by people who I now realize were making up sources and just saying their personal opinion. I'm very happy that you made this video. Finally, someone who does their research and looks from all sides of the argument with no bias. There are plenty of idiots on youtube who post stupid comments saying 'bits are abusive' or 'bits are painful' and i wish they would watch this even just to open their mind to a different opinion
You are amazing and very Educate. Your parent/s must be so very proud of you. I know if you were my daughter I sure as to heck would be. Just a bit of my background. I have been riding horses for 40 + years. I learned how to ride horses from my cousins who lived on a farm. Bits were used, and used properly. These were pleasure horses but they were also used for hearding the cattle from one area of the Pasture to another. I absolutely loved trail riding. I then got into competing. Again bits were used. The bits were of proper fit. When I was competing and finished high school I went to Police College and passed. After 5 years on the Force I signed up for the Mounted Unit. I was on it for 8 years. Again we used bits. Our horses were always well taken care of. Always checked by the vet especially the mouth. No sores what so ever. The horses were not uncomfortable. I recently got one of the horses that retired. This is a horse that is close to 18hh. He is in perfect condition and health. He is switched from an English saddle to a western. I still use the same bit. Sorry for novel. Lol
I totally agree with you! I can go and ride my horse Bridless. However, as I'm a hunter rider I use specific bits to put her in a frame desirable to judges. Always simple D's. She was ridden in a single jointed bit but i picked it up and it pinched my finger so that bit is simply a wall decoration at this point haha. French links and happy mouths have been very good with my horse. We don't need a lot of bit just enough to encourage her in the correct direction. We've used draw reins under close supervision (you should talk about those *nudge nudge*) and they can be very helpful to encourage proper head placement. Love the video and I'm a really big fan!❤️
Edited to add this is personal opinion based on videos I've already seen. I've noticed a lot of people use photos depicting bits as all the pictures where the horse is gawping, salivating excessively due to the rider's harsh hands, whites of their eyes showing ect and conveniently miss out pictures of horses looking content in bits. And then bring the bitless photos of of horses looking content bitless and conveniently miss out all the pictures with eye whites showing, lips drooping because their face muscles and nerves are being squashed, head tossing because their sensitive nerves are being squashed.. It just doesn't seem "fair" tbh. As an owner of 2 ponies I can ride bitless, bitted and bridleless, and one that will only accept being bitless I am only for using what is most comfortable for my ponies. If I have to hang off their face whether it be in a bit or bitless then that is not the right piece of tack for them.
This whole video is so helpful, and very educational. I love the way you worded things and came across in this video. I appreciate you posting this to educate fellow riders. Also this is random but when you mentioned that you went to UOG my face lit up and I was like wait are you Canadian too? Idk that just made me really happy, as well as the entire video in itself :)
And this video is why Shelby Dennis is my number one favorite equestrian youtuber! Not only do you source your citations and use facts, you do it in such an educated and well-constructed manner that definitely gets your argument across. I personally am a bit-user and would never switch out for a bitless bridle unless the horse I was riding felt more comfortable in it.
lmao literally any piece of equipment can be abused. you can damage nerves with bitless bridles, and you can also ride with a double twisted wire, 3-ring gag, with the lightest contact and be fine. it’s seriously all dependent on the person !
I just came back from Raleigh’s video and to this about her video on bits and I noticed how she seems to make you feel guilty by almost yelling at us and then I watch this video and I love how calm she is
Yay! You wouldn't believe how happy it has made me to see a video like this up. Finally something based in solid fact, that shows bitless bridles aren't perfect either. Thank you! I only recently found your channel but with what you have done for Milo and this video, you have a new subscriber. Can't wait to see what you do in the future!
i use bits on my horses and my horses are perfectly fine sooooo raleigh needs to sh sh. a snaffle bit is soft on a horse's mouth. i personally use curb bits and my horse's mouth is healthy and their behavior is fine as well
Hi Shelby! I have one question, as you are talking about bit less bridles... my mare will not take a bit, I have tried everything that I can do... she just won't take the bit, then I tried a mechanical hackamore(yes I put it way to high) but I think that's better than lower... anyways she respects the hackamore, and is very happy using it. Would it be better for me to keep trying for a bit as I don't have much knowledge on hackamore? Or should I keep her in the hackamore and keep learning with her? Keep in mind the other lady who had her for her first 11 years did not really know what she was doing with her and I think she had used a Bosal on her before, I don't mind either hackamore or French-link snaffle but she will not take the bit although we have put the bit on her before and she looked kind of unhappy... as I said before I don't know much about hackamore's so I don't want to hurt her...
Savannah Herzog I would recommend a short shanked one over a long shanked one and ultimately if you want something even softer that's still bitless, you could try a side pull. If she's happy and it's properly fitted and she's going well and you're riding with soft hands then I don't really think it's an issue though!
Also your debating skills and arguments seem a lot more professional and reliable than Raleigh's. I love her videos but all she seems to do lately is rant
thank you sooo much for this, really made me feel better about using bits in my riding. You have great points and arguments in this vid, i really loved it
Shelby this is so in point! I've never had someone explain it that detailed via RUclips! Yes, more people need to be more open to what helps their horse!
This video is so awesome! Every single thing you say is backed up by facts, which is nescessary when debating something. In Raleigh's videos of her hating on bits, very few of the things that she says are backed up by real facts. She also calls people idiots and curses a lot, which isn't very professional at all.
And this is why I respect you more than my trainer. Not that my trainer is bad just we sometimes don't agree on cranking a flash or what not you are a wealth of knowledge and please make more educational videos you do not know how much You Milo and Archie mean to me I look up to all of you
Edda Smith no it's not bad training, leading in a halter is NOT IN ANYWAY comparable to riding since riding requires proper form and carriage from the horse. If your horse is running around moving improperly while ridden you will end up hurting their backs. Hence why a bridle or a halter is being used very differently when the horse is being ridden or handled from the ground. If you seriously don't understand why contact is preferable when working on the horses form and carriage and why some horses may not like nose pressure you are on NO position to call out anyone on bad training. Riding is about a lot more than getting your horse to go and stop, riding is about teaching your horse how to use their bodies and building the right muscles for them to carry a rider properly. Some horses are too sensitive on the face and thus will tense up ridden bitless, that will cause a lot more damage to a horse than having them relax with a bit. Seriously get yourself a proper trainer that can teach you about form, carriage, relaxation and how to properly condition a horse. And start respecting the fact that horses are individuals that may prefer different things, this girl is clearly respecting her horses wishes. Can't say the same for you since you'd probably force a bitless option on a horse that sows signs of discomfort just because you believe it's better. You bitless folks do really think highly of yourself but all the comments you make on other peoples videos just go to show that the only thing you care about is shoving you biased non factual OPINIONS down peoples throats. You don't give a shit about animal welfare. If you seriously think that someone with a horse showing signs of discomfort in a bitless bridle should force the horse to ride bitless I'd say you're the one encouraging abuse.
Edda Smith How wonderful that you can judge someone’s horse without even seeing it! You must be such a pro ‘hun’. One of my horses hates bitless bridles as well, while another hates bitted bridles. I’m not biased like some...I ride in what is best for my horse. You see, the horse who hates bitless bridles has an extremely sensitive face and sensitive skin. I can’t even wear his fly mask on him for too long. He is downright uncomfortable in any type of bitless bridle (I’ve tried several...) but he is comfortable and happy in his copper mouthed snaffle bit (no noseband...even something as simple as a cavesson rubs his poor nose) So, in your ‘professional’ opinion, is it because of bad training that he hates a bitless bridle? Also; in regards to the original comment, if his horse goes nicely in a rubber mullen I would say he is well trained!
I am glad that you brought up the differences between single-broken and double-broken. I ride my OTTB in a single jointed Pelham, and he hasn’t shown any signs of distressed. his ears are lazy, his form is nice and relaxed, and he’s never played or opened his mouth. but I think it’s a good thing to be aware of, thank you!
Thank you so much for this video. I love the way you articulated your thoughts in such a poised manor. You did your proper research and sited your sources.. that's what everyone should do when you're trying to prove a point. Do what's best for your horse and no one knows your horse better than you do (hopefully).
The horse i have now has two hairless areas from headbands, so none of her bridles have a headband. some people drop the noseband to low on horses which can break the thin piece of nasal bone.
I LOVE the way you explain this. I am a huge believer in tack being as harsh as you make it and you explain this very well, especially in regard to the facial nerves that are touched by the bridles and the hard tissue & soft tissue's respective sensitivity.
Thank you so much for this. Some of these people were making me feel terrible about riding my horse with a bit.I really look up to you, so this really made me feel a lot better.
Thank you for making this video. You clearly knew what you were talking about and you had c;early done your research before making this video. (unlike some people) I found the information about the buckles possibly hitting nerves very interesting and I am definitely going to do some more research on that to check my own bridle! I loved how you made sure to point out to people that a biased source is not a good source and while you mainly fought on the side of bits for this video you did make sure to include a few arguments for the bitless side. You are a very wise horsewoman and I love the work you have done with Milo. This was overall a very well thought out and planned argument so thanks again Shelby for the great video! You gained my like and subscribe ;)
I’ve never been around horses my whole life but I love them and want to get one later in life. If I want to ride, what is the most humane bridle?? Bitless-can damage nerves, Bits-can damage mouths. What do I use? I would much prefer to use a bitless bridle.
I hate it when someone tells me I’m abusing my horse, this girl named hilda, or Hannah idk, told me, OMG YOURE ABUSING YOUR HORSE BY USING A BIT. Like thanks.
Thank you so much for making this video! I think it's really important for each equestrian to be educated on what tack they're putting on their horse so it's awesome that you're contributing to this. I very much value your research, thoughts, and opinions when looking to better myself in my equine knowledge as you are honest about yours and your horses' journeys and Milo/Archie always seem happy to work! I would love it if you made a video on how to choose a bit for a horse where you could further explain Milo and Archie's bits and how you figured out which ones they go best in. Thanks for taking the time to read this :)
love this! your opinion is so rounded and grounded by facts it's awesome ❤️! I ride both of my horses bitless because for them it was what they needed to work calmly and comfortably! also I thought you might be interested in Karen Rohlfs opinion on the topic as I think she is very similar to your thinking 😊 so if you have the time to read it I think it you would enjoy it. It's called 'to bit or not to bit' ❤️❤️ great vid Shelby ❤️
Hell yeah Shelby! Thanks for making this. It was very well rounded and informative. It's scary how someone with so many followers is just presenting biased opinion as fact. Glad you responded. :)
I really love the way you presented the information in a none biased way and cited your sources. It's nice to see someone approach the situation this way.
Thank you for playing the devils advocate a little and spreading some good factual information! This video is great and I honestly never knew about the possibility of a bitless bridle causing damage. Well done
thankyou for finally giving people an educated response to the 'bit' argument. I ride my horse with a snaffle bit and I lead her in a rope halter. This is just what suits my horse personally. People need to understand that there's so much science that goes into this argument, you can't simply just go off what you think you heard somone say, or as you've pointed out, a biased source.
I do prefer bitless, or just a snaffle bit (I think that's what it's called, I only started horse riding again 2 months ago.) I think that anything bridle/halter bitless or not can be harmful if used incorrectly. You totally opened my eyes to what bitless bridles can do! And it's really nice to see something which is not biased or using biased info.
Thank you for such a great video, very informational. My horse works great with both a bit and a mechanical hackamore but I'm starting to prefer the bit. Also cross under bitless bridles are shit, Dr Cook just wants money.
I honestly think test your horse in both and which ever you feel makes your horse work better and happier. Use that type. And if you have not ridden someone else's horse don't go around saying you should ride bitless or with a bit. I ride both bitless and with a bit because I ride two very different horses. I like how Shelby said research and not just rant because you think it is better. Like Raleigh
I love this so much! This needs to be shared everywhere :). We'd cut down on so much drama in the world. If everyone would just do their research and quit jumping on the bandwagon!
So my mare has a thing with lifting her head, turning it to the side and chomping on her bit.. It makes this awful squeaking noise and I'm wondering if theres anything i can do to stop it ( she may just be playing with it but I'm not sure...). she does it a lot while I'm trotting. Shes currently in a happy mouth Dee pro double jointed snaffle. Do i need a different bit, like something softer or is it her being evasive.
OTTB Bellerina I've found that things like that are often indicative of a root issue so I'd get her teeth checked. If she's 5 or under she could also be losing baby teeth
Ugh ): I had her teeth done right before i moved a month ago, they did say she had some sores in her mouth from her teeth but i don't know if that could be it. She's 9 years old and has a loootttt of foot problems. it could just be a pain thing.
You could also try a soft rubber mullen mouth, some horses prefer that to the jointed bits but if she has sores or other pain related issues those could most definitely be the cause!
I have a question. I have been riding my horse in a hackamore instead of a bit because she won’t ride in a bit bc she has a problem with her tooth that we cannot fix. Is it bad that I ride her in a hackamore? Bc she rides good in them.
Actually love you Shelby, you're so honest and it's so lovely. You present yourself in a beautiful way in the equestrian community, we need more people like you in this world!! You HAVE your facts etc. you're awesome.
Shelby, I have a request. Could you possibly make a video explaining how to train a green horse to get into a frame? My mare won’t go into one and it makes her dangerous to ride as she has learned she can evade any form of training I try under saddle. I have tried to get her into a frame at a trot and canter and she won’t. The saddle is not the problem either. I use a bit (not that it matters) and she won’t go in a bitless bridle/halter. Again, I’ve tried multiple things.
I SOOO agree with you! There are way too many ignorant people that think bits are inhumane 🙄 Its clearly the people being inhumane, not the equipment. If a bit is being used correctly, its not abusive WHATSOEVER. Ok ill stop so i don't totally rant 😂
Very educated! I go to university for Equine Business and I love that you mentioned proper tack fitting many people don’t realize that it is a problem. I like how you don’t attack people also.
can you do a video like this on the treed vs. non-treed saddles ... and saddles in general? thx! This is the biggest hurdle to me finally getting going with my mare. I have yet to find a saddle that fits her. I'm looking at getting a schleese but can't yet afford it.
When using a bit, it is also important to know that double or single jointed bits but the pressure mainly on the sides of the tongue and mouth. An unbroken bit (mullen mouth) applies the pressure on the whole tongue. The mullen mouth is good for horses who are not used to pressure in their mouth and horses that are quite sensitive, because it is much more gentle and softer, due to the larger area on which the pressure is applied. They can also be considered to use for horses that lean on the bit, if they do so because they were ridden with a harsh hand, because it can be used as a form of re-teaching or "bit-rehabilitation". Broken bits are good for horses that are less sensitive, but when using a broken/jointed bit, i would always go for a double jointed bit, as they do not have the nutcracker effect, although some studies say that the actually apply more pressure on the sides of the mouth than the single jointed bit does. (I got this information from Kristin Krischke, who is the director of the Royal horse riding academy in Germany)
Thank you so much for making this video. I know it is old but still thank you. :) I love all the information. You are also being respectful. A lot of people if they don't agree with something they can be rude and it bugs me. Love you Shelby :)
YES 👏🏻 PREACH 🙌🏻 MY 👏🏻 QUEEN🙌🏻 ROAST THEM FOOLS 😂😂 but seriously, I love how you have multiple studies and not the Cook one. I’ve seen people try and use that, I corrected them kindly, then they attack me instead of my argument. Then I point that out then they are SILENCED. I thank you for informing me Shelby, spread the truth honeyyyy!!
Thank you Shelby. I love your videos. They are helpful, informative and very well researched. Keep up the good work! I also have recently been gifted with my first Thoroughbred ex-racehorse, so I will be following all your informative videos on this subject.
![HELMETS ARE DUMB [PARODY]| internet trainer returns](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/_WOf6BAXvuo/mqdefault.jpg)
Last year my horse hit her head in her stall and ended up hitting and damaging a nerve that caused the entire left side of her face to droop and essentially was paralyzed aside from her eyelid. She is completely fine now (it took about a year for the nerve to regrow) and she never had a problem being ridden but I just wanted to point out how insanely easy it is for someone (or something) to hit a nerve on the horse's face even without having anything on their face such as a bridle to begin with.
G C this means nothing when the video is supposed to be about bits being good and hackamores/ bitless bridles being mean
henriette oakheart The point is how easily facial nerves can be damaged.
henriette oakheart and no, that's not the point of the video. You've entirely missed the point. It's that both use the same ideas pressure for communication and can be misused.
Shelby touched on the topic that a horse has many nerves that are located just under the surface of the horse's skin, and I was just noting that it is extremely easy for these nerves to be damaged even without a bridle or anything on the horse's face.
Hi Shelby. Good job on your very informed and well thought out points of view re BITS!! (There's a lot of crazy internet jargon on this topic.)) I'm curious though what information or points of view you would have regarding bits such as sweet iron, that increase mouth salivation and therein, comfort, versus increasingly popular rubber bits (as you use?). Would rubber bits not be potentially more severe than some metal bits which cause salivation/mouth lubrication??
Thnks
also lowkey feel like this is in response to Raleighlink14
randipandiable I think it's more high key because she was way too many impressionable subscribers to be feeding that much false information to and presenting it as fact.
Shelby Dennis good! I'm glad you responded the way you did cuz her video pissed me off
who is this raleigh? i would very much like to see what inspired you. thanks.
SummerWoodStables should be very easy for you to look up using the RUclips search bar
randipandiable I thought this
I really love this. Also would like to mention that when people talk about bitless they're eager to tell everyone that the metal in the mouth is harsh, but somehow forget that there are hackamores with metal nose bands or rawhide ones (mostly present in bosals I think though). They also neglect to mention that there are some hectic shanks on hackamores that people would really question that much leverage on a bit in the mouth, but extreme leverage on the nose is fine because it's not as harsh as the mouth or whatever. There are tools and there are torture devices with both bits and bitless, just like there is abuse and neglect in western and English. You can't just pick the good parts of the side of the fence you're on whilst throwing dirt at people standing on the other side.
It's not the equipment that's abusive... it's the hands that use them
Yes thank you
I agree too, but certain types of equipment can be abusive even in the right kinds of hands
@@grandprixsposiedon5591 agree. No matter What harsh bits are disgusting. Bike chain/tight twists are awful and can ruin a horse. Most humane equipment shouldn't harm a horse.
I agree, but there are also exceptions like chain bits and spike bits. Those are disgusting and work by purposefully causing the horse a large amount of pain. But yeah, most of the time, it's the improper use of perfectly fine equipment that causes abuse.
Nikki B. I agree! A gun doesn't shoot unless you pull the trigger
This isn't an attack on bitless riding whatsoever. If pointing out bitless riding uses pressure to communicate (just like bits) and that it can cause pain when misused and that horses may have preferences makes you feel attacked, then that says an awful lot about how open you are to new information. People are so quick to attack bits but never talk about how bitless options can be misused and how they actually work OR about any findings on how they work in comparison to bits. That's why I chose to talk about this. This isn't an attack on bitless and if you truly think that, then you didn't watch the whole video because I clearly state numerous times that's it's important to choose what's best for YOUR horse and YOUR situation and judge things on a circumstantial basis. I also CLEARLY state that having a horse who's well rounded enough to both is a good thing. Again, if you genuinely think that this is an attack on bitless riding, either you didn't watch the entire video or you're so obsessed with thinking your views are right that you're allowing yourself to be dangerously ignorant about what you're using. Believing that bits OR bitless are perfect and can't be misused or cause pain ever is dangerous. You need to be realistic and not make blanket statements. If you're okay with someone making an entire video blatantly attacking bits and stating they're abusive, then you really shouldn't have a problem with me discussing both sides and bringing up points regarding bitless that are often never brought up in your bitted hate parades.
Shelby Dennis I agree with you shelby. As a riding school rider I know from my instructors.
i dont know what youve responded to, someone sent me a link to your video. i told you where to find the research, videos of the skulls, etc. on bitless and beautiful for dressage on facebook, you just need to scroll down. i have also explained why there is not a lot of research, so we have to go with empirical evidence. i have helped dozens and dozens of people to transition to bitless riding, my entire riding school is bitless from the youngest students, to the oldest horses, we do everything anyone could want to do....bitless....so why should the horse be subjected to its teeth being clanked by a hunk of metal, or its tongue being pinched, or corners of its mouth bleeding? where is your proof that anyone has had any injuries nasal or otherwise? ive been asking for proof of this for years...no one ever seems to have the proof. but i can show you thousands of photos of the bit being misused, i am sure you have seen them too, so what are you arguing about? why do you want to defend the bit, you still have not voiced your motivation? and worse, why are you saying anything disparaging about riding bitless? some people did not want to believe that the earth was round, but that never really hurt anyone, believing that the bit is ok, hurts horses every day. there is a strong stench of denial lingering in the air here.
SummerWoodStables ... the bit doesn't sit where there are teeth so a correctly fitted bit cannot hit the teeth. Tongue will not get pinched unless the bit is poorly fitted. The mechanics of the bits I use make it physically impossible to pinch the tongue. Never ever had or seen a bloody mouth on any horse I've ridden or handled. Very uncommon. Doesn't happen unless you ride poorly. Kind of like causing your horses' nose to be raw from riding bitless badly. You are biased, you've stated completely false claims such as the bits clanking against teeth. The horses in your videos are hollow and not moving correctly. This is far more damaging than a correctly used bitted or bitless option could ever be.
SummerWoodStables I cited an article in which it went into detail about the sensitivity of the nasal area, along with including diagrams of the face and where the nerves lie. Along with citing a scientist who did a study that proved the cross under bitless bridle (which you use) has TWICE as much pressure build up as the typical snaffle. I have given you MORE than enough evidence. The nerves of the face and where the bitless bridle sits can tell you on their own how easily these can be misused. There are also photos of such out there on the internet where you can find but clearly you haven't looked (kind of like how you can't even scroll down to look at sources or actually watch the entire video). Still waiting to see the sources to back your claims.
SummerWoodStables You're the only one in denial, sweetheart. I've admitted both can be used and abused. It's very ignorant for a full grown adult to choose to be so deluded that they'll actually deny something that utilitizes pressure on sensitive nerves could possibly be misused. Your attitude is far more dangerous because you cannot possibly seem to fathom the fact that you can cause pain using bitless. Being aware of how you can harm your horse is important in learning how to avoid it, which I do and there's a reason why my horses are going more correctly than the ones in your videos and carrying themselves properly.
CAN WE GET THIS GIRL A GOLD MEDAL AND A DOZEN COOKIES? THIS IS THE BEST, WELL THOUGHT OUT RESPONSE VIDEO TO RALEIGHLINK14 I HAVE EVER SEEN. THANK YOU FOR MAKING THIS.
I found the counter-Raleigh. She has strong opinions but (gasp) backs them up with facts and acknowledges the other side as an equal stance
I think 5 years of doing my research and seeing how horses have reacted, from what I know, and seen, Raleigh's statements actually are probably true
Raleigh does state some sources in most of her videos, but all her claims about bits aren’t backed up and she even admits to that in her video about the topic (She basically says there is no evidence supporting the claim that bit generally cause pain). Yet she went on and criticized everyone for using bits, regardless of the fact if they were actually a cause for the problem. I do think she knows a lot about the stuff she is talking about, but some of her opinions are just stupid.
Came here because of a comment on rock gore saying “check out this girl she’s spreading false information that bits are good” I recognized the name from previous videos and wanted to check this out. Rick used Dr.Cook’s study (naturally) and it kind of pissed me off. I’m really glad you actually have sense and proof. I’m also glad you have facts to back what you say up and don’t use biased sources. Much love
I ride bitless for a reason, when I bought my horse her mouth was torn. Since she has a soft mouth I don't want her to go through that again. Bits aren't abuse, they could be abuse the way you use them. I do imagine myself using bits when I get new horses, depending on the age and personality. This is a very good video, some bit haters should see this! 😂 loved this video!
Jellie Jumping definitely, any item can be used to abuse a horse! I do both bitless and and bitted riding with my horse because he doesn't give a crap which we do he is equally happy.
Yep my trainer has a very soft horse and she has a hackamore and most of them in French link snaffles them as we call her nasty meatball pony in a Tom Thumb
bdjdu dhj my horse is the opposite. He HATES to ride bitless because when he chews the bit it relieves stress for him. When bitless he has no where to escape and gets stressed. Glad someone realizes that not every horse is the same unlike Raleigh
Hope your horse is doing well.
New viewer: so glad that I found you through JETeventing. I'd found awful riders, and super young riders, but other than professionals, it's been so hard to find sensible riders on YT. So happy!!
Raleigh needs to watch this 😂 👊
KB Equestrian Yes!
Yesss
KB Equestrian omg yes! 😂
LAMO YASSSS
KB Equestrian my thoughts when I started watching this, lmao. Though I do agree with a few of her points in her video, she's extremely biased and doesn't list sources or facts etc.
Just do your research and also just do what makes your horse the happiest, some horses are perfectly happy in only bits and some horses are perfectly happy in only bitless options.
I really hate how many bitless riders bash riders who is bits. I joined a bitless riding group on Facebook because I wanted to see what good bitless bridles were out there and the majority of the people in that group were constantly bashing people who use bits, it doesn't help their case and it doesn't do anything for the horses either!
I also don't like how some (but not the majority unlike bitless people) bitted people bash on bitless people as I don't think it is useful in anyway!
The horse community needs to research before speaking and needs to just stop attacking other people for doing things differently!
One of my best friends has both horses bitless and that is the way those two horses are happiest, they don't work correctly in bits. So it really depends on the horse and the way the rider rides.
One mare at my barn has a very sensitive nose and hates anything touching on it to the point that her bridle doesn’t even have a noseband. She would literally kill anyone who tried to ride her bitless. 😂
In Australia the rules have changed and now you are allowed to use just a snaffle and don't have to use a double bridle anymore! Woohoo!
(at GP level in dressage)
You're one of the LEAST biased equestrian RUclipsrs I have watched. You deal with facts. You deal with accredited websites and sources, whereas other people, not naming any names but I think we all know who I'm talking about, just deal with their own opinions and treat them as facts. I'm so glad there's at least one non-biased equestrian RUclipsr who knows what she's dealing with and can explain things thoroughly. You have officially saved me.
My favorite claim to people saying bits are abusive is that "if you put a piece of metal in your mouth and pull on it, it will hurt!" First of all, we have a different mouth structure than horses, completely different. Second of all, even if you do put a piece of metal in your mouth, if it's just sitting there it doesn't hurt. Pull back or to the side a bit, it still doesn't hurt but you feel it move. Now if you yank on it vigorously then yes it will hurt. I HATE how people just automatically assume that bits are abusive even if the rider uses them properly. I once heard about one girl that yanked on her bit so hard that she cut her ponies toungue off😢 Poor pony...
Erica Sullivan ikr. And their mouths are less sensitive than their noses because of all the dental work
Ugh. Just imagine how sharp that bit must have been.
You can find this information just about anywhere, but horses jawbones are knife sharp, and even in a bit as gentle as a leather bit or a trouble jointed snaffle, applying the slightest pressure forces the tongue onto that ridge. I am not saying that light contact with the bit is painful, but there is a lot more to bits than the media will care to discuss. If you look at the skulls of domestic horses v mustang's you will find that a large majority of the domestic horses have erosion along the jawbone where the bit will sit because of the pressure is applies to that region of the mouth over time. This is just to say that you need to consider the whole of the equation before making a decision on whether or not you think bits are acceptable because it's not about what we put on the horses, but how it affects them.
Kenna Morsman what if a horse would prefer a bit rather than bitless? Not trying to be sassy just a genuine question
@@myfavoritefoodispastayumyu2693 I don't believe a horse would prefer a bit over a bitless bridle. I think mechanical hackamores are just as bad as bits, but in some cases worse due to the leverage that they use. Horses tend to dislike the cross under bridles because they have little to no release. Riding in a bitless sidepull is different than riding in a bitted bridle, a horse also does not naturally understand that transition. Transitioning a bitted horse to bitless is a process, just like teaching a horse how to respond to a bit. Many inexperienced riders who traditionally ride in bits will throw a bitless bridle on an uneducated horse and complain that their horse didnt like it, or didnt understand it, and it's simply because neither of the two have been trained properly with the tack.
Thank you for making a video with your educated opinion! Not many of these out there... just rant videos calling people animal abusers😂
Finally someone with actually research and understanding on bias information!! Being a uni student my self its basic understanding that bias exists and information as such should be considered for it. I ride both in a bit and bitless but for different situations and depending on how my horse is feeling, its not all black and white! This shows complete understanding of this, absolutely brilliant more people need to see this!
Danielle Dennis . Exactly!! I do both as well!
Danielle Dennis are you related to Shelby? I know that not every is related with the same last name, and this was totally random but I am curious
I hope Raleigh sees this. She really needs to
she's gonna say that Shelby is jealous and doesn't know her sh*t which is *CLEARLY* (sarcasm) true
As Raleigh uses a Mechanical Hackamore. Pushing/pinching on every single nerve on her horses face.
ThatRoanieBaby She also uses a mechanical hackamore with massive shanks on it. The leverage works the same as a bit, the fact she has big shanks on her hackamore is putting a lot of pressure on Links poll and his nose
+Theresa Mah That so true it's funny
@@theresamah4864 without the sarcasm that would be correct
I was completely against bits until I saw this. Now that I have more knowledge about the whole bitless vs bit debate, I'll definitely view it differently and pay more attention to the actual horse rather than what I believe, if that makes sense. Basically, if the horse doesn't look unhappy or uncomfortable is moving okay, it's okay. Thanks for opening my eyes. I honestly went into this video thinking I would leave angry about people's stupidity but I learned something. Thanks.
Kylie Weiffenbach Just wanted to say I really appreciate the fact that you listen and you are open to different points of view and not stubborn like most people. It's rare
Kylie Weiffenbach OMG I like you you're a smart person. You listen to facts and scientific proof ☺
I always feel it’s up to a persons good judgment. I was alright with people not liking bits or not wanting to ride in one, but what really frustrated me was when they’d say “it’s abuse”. But it’s nice that you’re very flexible 😁
Me too, I watched so many biased videos that I was blinded. This gives me many facts as well as sources!
Kylie Weiffenbach I am in the same boat! I watched so many videos and articles about bits being abuse. But this has given me more info! It’s really up to the horse and rider’s opinions. :)
SHELBY! This is the reason you are my favorite RUclips!! Thank you for making me feel more educated and changing my opinion on bits in a good way!
THANK YOU for being the one to finally give a reasonable and unbiased opinion on this matter! There are too many people nowadays who despise bridles without knowing anything about them and how to properly use them all because of these "internet trainers" 😂😂
This is such an informative, trustworthy video. It presents both bitless and bitted as gentle as well as having the potential to cause harsh, unnecessary pain upon the horse. I feel reassured and that my views are supported on this big debate. Thank you for such a great video
I love how you don't attack anyone's opinion like Raleigh does. You point out information both good and bad for both sides. I love this video and I will definitely be sharing this! I actually felt like I gained braincells instead of losing them like when I watch Raleigh.
its so refreshing to hear such an intelligent equestrian, very well said!
I really enjoyed this video because it had a lot of facts that made sense to me. I wonder what Raleigh would think of this video!
She wouldn't 'think' anything. She'd just make a 30-minute video ranting, swearing at 30-second intervals. Ahaha
She'd have a fit because she can't be wrong about anything
THANK THE LORD THIS VIDEO HAS BEEN MADE. A RESPECTABLE PERSON AND SOURCES. NOT BIASED AND WELL INFORMED 😂😂 finally ❤
Madison Person omg ikr I loved this video so much, so informational.
Stop yelling at us damn 🤣
Shelby, you are a very mature young woman with very well thought out and planned responses to pressing issues and I agree with you 100%. Follow the science, not the biases, but in the end, do what's best for your individual horse. People jump on the fad bandwagons so fast without regard to what is actually best for the horse. I'm very lucky in that my horse can go bitted, bridleless, in a halter/leadrope, and he'd probably do just fine in an actual bitless bridle. But not all are that lucky. Some horses HATE bits, some HATE bitless. You do what's in your horse's best interest. Not what someone on the internet (who usually is very biases and usually not all that intelligent) tells you to.
Thank you for really explaining this and not just calling bits "horse abuse"
Very well presented @shelbydennis. I've done a couple of course through Equine Guelph as well. It's a great school and amazing program.
I'd also like to add to your video, the thickness of a bit is a HUGE factor as well. Many people who ride feel that a thin bit is cruel and a thick bit or even a HAPPY MOUTH bit better for the horse. On the contrary, it's horse dependant. For example, my mare has a very low pallet. Therefore, using a thick bit or a HAPPY MOUTH bit, OR a single joint is a lot more painful and leaves no room for her tongue. Large bits put my mare, Ember in quite a bit of distress. Once I switched to a double jointed thin bit, has made her a lot happier and she searches for contact. (She actually gets distressed and not sure what to do attitude when I ride her on the buckle with no contact. Since I'm with my mare daily, I know her and her little intricacies.
To the equestrian readers, just remember that the horses anatomy does matter. A low pallet plays a huge part in what kind or thickness of bit to use.
Again, great presentation Shelby!
I also feel like people forget not only the palette but the size of the mouth. Not every horse is 5 inches. Some are 4.5 " and some are 6" so having a bit with sides squeezing the mouth is an issue that is missed a lot as well. Many people do not know how to measure their horses mouth for a bit to get the correct size. This causes discomfort and while a slightly larger snaffle normal works "ok" anything with a curb or even a snaffle with cheek pieces make the improperly sized bit incredibly uncomfortable.
_Thank you_ for actually being educated and respectful! Nearly all the videos I’ve watched on this subject are people screeching about how bits are purely abuse, and they refuse to accept or even listen to anyone else’s opinion. It’s awesome to see someone actually stating facts instead of treating their opinions as facts.
Just wondering, do you think you can do a video on your opinion on Raleigh Link!
KC Eventing I wouldn't feel comfortable doing that since I don't want to target her. This is just generalized because it's super inflammatory to tell everyone who rides in a bit that they're abusing their horses and it's not just who her thinks that. She's just someone with a big following that chose to spread that type of mindset
Shelby Dennis yeah, i assumed that answer! Thanks for being a mature rider and educating the equine world though! It honestly is so nice to see! The information was really interesting and thoughtful to share😊
Thank you so much for presenting this information in an unbiased manner. I will be looking up the sources you've cited to do more study myself. I agree that there should be options for those who wish to show bitted or bitless, but with the choices must come information and education as you stated
So many thumbs up Shelby!! I learned things i hasn't previously known so thank you for that.
Also I can't wait to see if Miss All Bits Are Abusive does a response to this because at this point she really doesn't have a leg to stand on 🙌
Why is this not posted everywhere? Thank you for providing the equine world is non-biased, well-developed INFORMATION. We need more Shelby's.
I'm so glad I watched this! Before this, I was led to believe that bitless is ALWAYS better, but by people who I now realize were making up sources and just saying their personal opinion. I'm very happy that you made this video. Finally, someone who does their research and looks from all sides of the argument with no bias. There are plenty of idiots on youtube who post stupid comments saying 'bits are abusive' or 'bits are painful' and i wish they would watch this even just to open their mind to a different opinion
In my opinion the only reason a bit is abusive is that the human riding them abuses it.
Hoof Harted I once read an article where a girl was so abusive with such a harsh bit that she cut her ponies toungue off😢
You are amazing and very Educate. Your parent/s must be so very proud of you. I know if you were my daughter I sure as to heck would be.
Just a bit of my background. I have been riding horses for 40 + years. I learned how to ride horses from my cousins who lived on a farm. Bits were used, and used properly. These were pleasure horses but they were also used for hearding the cattle from one area of the Pasture to another. I absolutely loved trail riding. I then got into competing. Again bits were used. The bits were of proper fit. When I was competing and finished high school I went to Police College and passed. After 5 years on the Force I signed up for the Mounted Unit. I was on it for 8 years. Again we used bits. Our horses were always well taken care of. Always checked by the vet especially the mouth. No sores what so ever. The horses were not uncomfortable. I recently got one of the horses that retired. This is a horse that is close to 18hh. He is in perfect condition and health. He is switched from an English saddle to a western. I still use the same bit. Sorry for novel. Lol
I totally agree with you! I can go and ride my horse Bridless. However, as I'm a hunter rider I use specific bits to put her in a frame desirable to judges. Always simple D's. She was ridden in a single jointed bit but i picked it up and it pinched my finger so that bit is simply a wall decoration at this point haha. French links and happy mouths have been very good with my horse. We don't need a lot of bit just enough to encourage her in the correct direction. We've used draw reins under close supervision (you should talk about those *nudge nudge*) and they can be very helpful to encourage proper head placement. Love the video and I'm a really big fan!❤️
I thought u said hillary Clinton lol
I Ride Shadow same though
tbh i also get confused when im typing her name so i wouldn't be surprised if i accidentally said that
Edited to add this is personal opinion based on videos I've already seen.
I've noticed a lot of people use photos depicting bits as all the pictures where the horse is gawping, salivating excessively due to the rider's harsh hands, whites of their eyes showing ect and conveniently miss out pictures of horses looking content in bits. And then bring the bitless photos of of horses looking content bitless and conveniently miss out all the pictures with eye whites showing, lips drooping because their face muscles and nerves are being squashed, head tossing because their sensitive nerves are being squashed.. It just doesn't seem "fair" tbh.
As an owner of 2 ponies I can ride bitless, bitted and bridleless, and one that will only accept being bitless I am only for using what is most comfortable for my ponies. If I have to hang off their face whether it be in a bit or bitless then that is not the right piece of tack for them.
This whole video is so helpful, and very educational. I love the way you worded things and came across in this video. I appreciate you posting this to educate fellow riders. Also this is random but when you mentioned that you went to UOG my face lit up and I was like wait are you Canadian too? Idk that just made me really happy, as well as the entire video in itself :)
Is this in response to Raleigh... don't answer I know🥑
It's not it is just clearing up that bits are not abusive
And this video is why Shelby Dennis is my number one favorite equestrian youtuber! Not only do you source your citations and use facts, you do it in such an educated and well-constructed manner that definitely gets your argument across. I personally am a bit-user and would never switch out for a bitless bridle unless the horse I was riding felt more comfortable in it.
lmao literally any piece of equipment can be abused. you can damage nerves with bitless bridles, and you can also ride with a double twisted wire, 3-ring gag, with the lightest contact and be fine. it’s seriously all dependent on the person !
maxx scey The same with saddles too! If your saddle doesn't fit your horse it can make a big difference as to how comfortable they will be.
Erica Sullivan exactly, anything can be misused depending on the person
I just came back from Raleigh’s video and to this about her video on bits and I noticed how she seems to make you feel guilty by almost yelling at us and then I watch this video and I love how calm she is
Yay! You wouldn't believe how happy it has made me to see a video like this up. Finally something based in solid fact, that shows bitless bridles aren't perfect either. Thank you! I only recently found your channel but with what you have done for Milo and this video, you have a new subscriber. Can't wait to see what you do in the future!
i use bits on my horses and my horses are perfectly fine sooooo raleigh needs to sh sh. a snaffle bit is soft on a horse's mouth. i personally use curb bits and my horse's mouth is healthy and their behavior is fine as well
Hi Shelby! I have one question, as you are talking about bit less bridles... my mare will not take a bit, I have tried everything that I can do... she just won't take the bit, then I tried a mechanical hackamore(yes I put it way to high) but I think that's better than lower... anyways she respects the hackamore, and is very happy using it. Would it be better for me to keep trying for a bit as I don't have much knowledge on hackamore? Or should I keep her in the hackamore and keep learning with her? Keep in mind the other lady who had her for her first 11 years did not really know what she was doing with her and I think she had used a Bosal on her before, I don't mind either hackamore or French-link snaffle but she will not take the bit although we have put the bit on her before and she looked kind of unhappy... as I said before I don't know much about hackamore's so I don't want to hurt her...
Savannah Herzog I would recommend a short shanked one over a long shanked one and ultimately if you want something even softer that's still bitless, you could try a side pull. If she's happy and it's properly fitted and she's going well and you're riding with soft hands then I don't really think it's an issue though!
Also your debating skills and arguments seem a lot more professional and reliable than Raleigh's. I love her videos but all she seems to do lately is rant
Thank you so much for creating this video. I decided to do a argument essay for English about how bits aren’t abusive to horses.
thank you sooo much for this, really made me feel better about using bits in my riding. You have great points and arguments in this vid, i really loved it
Shelby this is so in point! I've never had someone explain it that detailed via RUclips! Yes, more people need to be more open to what helps their horse!
This video is so awesome! Every single thing you say is backed up by facts, which is nescessary when debating something. In Raleigh's videos of her hating on bits, very few of the things that she says are backed up by real facts. She also calls people idiots and curses a lot, which isn't very professional at all.
Wow thankyou!! this is brilliant, very knowledgable and not biased
And this is why I respect you more than my trainer. Not that my trainer is bad just we sometimes don't agree on cranking a flash or what not you are a wealth of knowledge and please make more educational videos you do not know how much You Milo and Archie mean to me I look up to all of you
my horse HATES bitless bridles! But he goes beautifully in his rubber mullen!
That your bad training hun, can you lead it in a halter?
Edda Smith no it's not bad training, leading in a halter is NOT IN ANYWAY comparable to riding since riding requires proper form and carriage from the horse. If your horse is running around moving improperly while ridden you will end up hurting their backs. Hence why a bridle or a halter is being used very differently when the horse is being ridden or handled from the ground. If you seriously don't understand why contact is preferable when working on the horses form and carriage and why some horses may not like nose pressure you are on NO position to call out anyone on bad training. Riding is about a lot more than getting your horse to go and stop, riding is about teaching your horse how to use their bodies and building the right muscles for them to carry a rider properly. Some horses are too sensitive on the face and thus will tense up ridden bitless, that will cause a lot more damage to a horse than having them relax with a bit.
Seriously get yourself a proper trainer that can teach you about form, carriage, relaxation and how to properly condition a horse. And start respecting the fact that horses are individuals that may prefer different things, this girl is clearly respecting her horses wishes. Can't say the same for you since you'd probably force a bitless option on a horse that sows signs of discomfort just because you believe it's better. You bitless folks do really think highly of yourself but all the comments you make on other peoples videos just go to show that the only thing you care about is shoving you biased non factual OPINIONS down peoples throats. You don't give a shit about animal welfare. If you seriously think that someone with a horse showing signs of discomfort in a bitless bridle should force the horse to ride bitless I'd say you're the one encouraging abuse.
Edda Smith How wonderful that you can judge someone’s horse without even seeing it! You must be such a pro ‘hun’. One of my horses hates bitless bridles as well, while another hates bitted bridles. I’m not biased like some...I ride in what is best for my horse. You see, the horse who hates bitless bridles has an extremely sensitive face and sensitive skin. I can’t even wear his fly mask on him for too long. He is downright uncomfortable in any type of bitless bridle (I’ve tried several...) but he is comfortable and happy in his copper mouthed snaffle bit (no noseband...even something as simple as a cavesson rubs his poor nose) So, in your ‘professional’ opinion, is it because of bad training that he hates a bitless bridle? Also; in regards to the original comment, if his horse goes nicely in a rubber mullen I would say he is well trained!
I am glad that you brought up the differences between single-broken and double-broken. I ride my OTTB in a single jointed Pelham, and he hasn’t shown any signs of distressed. his ears are lazy, his form is nice and relaxed, and he’s never played or opened his mouth. but I think it’s a good thing to be aware of, thank you!
Thank you so much for this video. I love the way you articulated your thoughts in such a poised manor. You did your proper research and sited your sources.. that's what everyone should do when you're trying to prove a point. Do what's best for your horse and no one knows your horse better than you do (hopefully).
Finally, someone with some actual knowledge and (apparently not so) common sense. 🙏🏻
The horse i have now has two hairless areas from headbands, so none of her bridles have a headband. some people drop the noseband to low on horses which can break the thin piece of nasal bone.
I LOVE the way you explain this. I am a huge believer in tack being as harsh as you make it and you explain this very well, especially in regard to the facial nerves that are touched by the bridles and the hard tissue & soft tissue's respective sensitivity.
Thank you so much for this. Some of these people were making me feel terrible about riding my horse with a bit.I really look up to you, so this really made me feel a lot better.
Thank you for making this video. You clearly knew what you were talking about and you had c;early done your research before making this video. (unlike some people) I found the information about the buckles possibly hitting nerves very interesting and I am definitely going to do some more research on that to check my own bridle! I loved how you made sure to point out to people that a biased source is not a good source and while you mainly fought on the side of bits for this video you did make sure to include a few arguments for the bitless side. You are a very wise horsewoman and I love the work you have done with Milo. This was overall a very well thought out and planned argument so thanks again Shelby for the great video! You gained my like and subscribe ;)
*clearly
I’ve never been around horses my whole life but I love them and want to get one later in life. If I want to ride, what is the most humane bridle?? Bitless-can damage nerves, Bits-can damage mouths. What do I use?
I would much prefer to use a bitless bridle.
the best bridle to use is the one the horse works best in; it is different for every horse
I hate it when someone tells me I’m abusing my horse, this girl named hilda, or Hannah idk, told me, OMG YOURE ABUSING YOUR HORSE BY USING A BIT. Like thanks.
Thank you so much for making this video! I think it's really important for each equestrian to be educated on what tack they're putting on their horse so it's awesome that you're contributing to this. I very much value your research, thoughts, and opinions when looking to better myself in my equine knowledge as you are honest about yours and your horses' journeys and Milo/Archie always seem happy to work! I would love it if you made a video on how to choose a bit for a horse where you could further explain Milo and Archie's bits and how you figured out which ones they go best in. Thanks for taking the time to read this :)
I have been watching your videos for the past few day and today I subbed because I really like your videos.
love this! your opinion is so rounded and grounded by facts it's awesome ❤️! I ride both of my horses bitless because for them it was what they needed to work calmly and comfortably! also I thought you might be interested in Karen Rohlfs opinion on the topic as I think she is very similar to your thinking 😊 so if you have the time to read it I think it you would enjoy it. It's called 'to bit or not to bit' ❤️❤️ great vid Shelby ❤️
Thank you for making this video, in a calm educational matter, really shows your very mature.
Hell yeah Shelby! Thanks for making this. It was very well rounded and informative. It's scary how someone with so many followers is just presenting biased opinion as fact. Glad you responded. :)
I had a lady at my barn use a bitless bridle and pulled to hard causing her horses nose to fo paralyzed and he deid from not being able to breath.
I really love the way you presented the information in a none biased way and cited your sources. It's nice to see someone approach the situation this way.
Thank you for playing the devils advocate a little and spreading some good factual information! This video is great and I honestly never knew about the possibility of a bitless bridle causing damage. Well done
You could also create a video on riding crops or even different types on bits that shouldn't be used :) ❤️
thankyou for finally giving people an educated response to the 'bit' argument. I ride my horse with a snaffle bit and I lead her in a rope halter. This is just what suits my horse personally. People need to understand that there's so much science that goes into this argument, you can't simply just go off what you think you heard somone say, or as you've pointed out, a biased source.
Very much respect for you. This is a very professional, well made, informed video.
I do prefer bitless, or just a snaffle bit (I think that's what it's called, I only started horse riding again 2 months ago.) I think that anything bridle/halter bitless or not can be harmful if used incorrectly. You totally opened my eyes to what bitless bridles can do! And it's really nice to see something which is not biased or using biased info.
Thank you for such a great video, very informational. My horse works great with both a bit and a mechanical hackamore but I'm starting to prefer the bit. Also cross under bitless bridles are shit, Dr Cook just wants money.
Do you think it is ok to use bitless bridles sometimes? My horse thrives on me switching up his rides.
Do what's best for your horse!
I honestly think test your horse in both and which ever you feel makes your horse work better and happier. Use that type. And if you have not ridden someone else's horse don't go around saying you should ride bitless or with a bit. I ride both bitless and with a bit because I ride two very different horses. I like how Shelby said research and not just rant because you think it is better. Like Raleigh
Thank you for this video! Very informative and unbiased 😊 I definitely agree that there needs to options to compete with snaffled or bridleless!
I liked your 'holding hands' example. A soft contact is NOT the same as the yanking and pulling most people look at when saying bits are abusive.
I love this so much! This needs to be shared everywhere :). We'd cut down on so much drama in the world. If everyone would just do their research and quit jumping on the bandwagon!
So my mare has a thing with lifting her head, turning it to the side and chomping on her bit.. It makes this awful squeaking noise and I'm wondering if theres anything i can do to stop it ( she may just be playing with it but I'm not sure...). she does it a lot while I'm trotting. Shes currently in a happy mouth Dee pro double jointed snaffle. Do i need a different bit, like something softer or is it her being evasive.
OTTB Bellerina I've found that things like that are often indicative of a root issue so I'd get her teeth checked. If she's 5 or under she could also be losing baby teeth
Ugh ): I had her teeth done right before i moved a month ago, they did say she had some sores in her mouth from her teeth but i don't know if that could be it. She's 9 years old and has a loootttt of foot problems. it could just be a pain thing.
You could also try a soft rubber mullen mouth, some horses prefer that to the jointed bits but if she has sores or other pain related issues those could most definitely be the cause!
gosh this is so great
I have a question. I have been riding my horse in a hackamore instead of a bit because she won’t ride in a bit bc she has a problem with her tooth that we cannot fix. Is it bad that I ride her in a hackamore? Bc she rides good in them.
stacey fowler No if she goes well in it don’t change !
Actually love you Shelby, you're so honest and it's so lovely. You present yourself in a beautiful way in the equestrian community, we need more people like you in this world!! You HAVE your facts etc. you're awesome.
Thank you for clearing this up because I hate when people say bits are abusive
Shelby, I have a request. Could you possibly make a video explaining how to train a green horse to get into a frame? My mare won’t go into one and it makes her dangerous to ride as she has learned she can evade any form of training I try under saddle. I have tried to get her into a frame at a trot and canter and she won’t. The saddle is not the problem either. I use a bit (not that it matters) and she won’t go in a bitless bridle/halter. Again, I’ve tried multiple things.
This was so helpful and interesting! Thank you so much!
I SOOO agree with you! There are way too many ignorant people that think bits are inhumane 🙄 Its clearly the people being inhumane, not the equipment. If a bit is being used correctly, its not abusive WHATSOEVER. Ok ill stop so i don't totally rant 😂
Very educated! I go to university for Equine Business and I love that you mentioned proper tack fitting many people don’t realize that it is a problem. I like how you don’t attack people also.
can you do a video like this on the treed vs. non-treed saddles ... and saddles in general?
thx! This is the biggest hurdle to me finally getting going with my mare. I have yet to find a saddle that fits her. I'm looking at getting a schleese but can't yet afford it.
This video is literally amazing!! All the information was absolutely great, and thank you so much for sharing❤
When using a bit, it is also important to know that double or single jointed bits but the pressure mainly on the sides of the tongue and mouth. An unbroken bit (mullen mouth) applies the pressure on the whole tongue. The mullen mouth is good for horses who are not used to pressure in their mouth and horses that are quite sensitive, because it is much more gentle and softer, due to the larger area on which the pressure is applied. They can also be considered to use for horses that lean on the bit, if they do so because they were ridden with a harsh hand, because it can be used as a form of re-teaching or "bit-rehabilitation". Broken bits are good for horses that are less sensitive, but when using a broken/jointed bit, i would always go for a double jointed bit, as they do not have the nutcracker effect, although some studies say that the actually apply more pressure on the sides of the mouth than the single jointed bit does. (I got this information from Kristin Krischke, who is the director of the Royal horse riding academy in Germany)
I really liked your calm attitude and factual information. Much more likely to listen to someone not shouting.
Thank you so much for making this video. I know it is old but still thank you. :) I love all the information. You are also being respectful. A lot of people if they don't agree with something they can be rude and it bugs me. Love you Shelby :)
Love this video it's so much better then Raleighs
YES 👏🏻 PREACH 🙌🏻 MY 👏🏻 QUEEN🙌🏻 ROAST THEM FOOLS 😂😂 but seriously, I love how you have multiple studies and not the Cook one. I’ve seen people try and use that, I corrected them kindly, then they attack me instead of my argument. Then I point that out then they are SILENCED. I thank you for informing me Shelby, spread the truth honeyyyy!!
Thank you Shelby. I love your videos. They are helpful, informative and very well researched. Keep up the good work! I also have recently been gifted with my first Thoroughbred ex-racehorse, so I will be following all your informative videos on this subject.