Dutton Teardrop Dog Bone Snaffle Bit

This bit has a 5-inch mouth, 4½-inch cheeks, and a 3/8-inch bit diameter. These dimensions make it a standard-sized snaffle suitable for most horses, though you should always measure your horse's mouth to ensure proper fit before purchasing.

This is a mild bit designed for comfort and soft communication. While it features a hand-forged shank that provides slightly more leverage than a regular snaffle, customers consistently describe it as easy on the mouth and gentle, making it suitable for horses that need clear signals without harsh pressure.

The bit features a copper-wrapped dog bone mouthpiece with sweet iron and copper inlay, combined with a hand-forged blackened steel teardrop shank. The sweet iron and copper materials encourage salivation and are naturally sweet to horses' taste, promoting a soft, supple mouth.

Dutton bits develop a natural aged patina from rust, which is actually a benefit—not a defect. The rust is sweet to horses' taste and helps aid in achieving a soft, supple mouth. This is part of the handmade character of Dutton bits and shows they're being used and loved.

The hand-forged blackened steel teardrop shank allows for a pre-signal rein slide, which gives you the ability to cue your horse before applying full pressure. This feature enables more refined communication and is particularly appreciated by riders who want subtlety in their aids.

Unlike a standard snaffle, this bit has a shank that provides additional leverage while remaining mild in action. It allows tongue relief while reaching the outside pressure points of the bars, giving you more control and communication options without being harsh—customers often note it strikes an excellent balance between gentleness and effectiveness.

Yes—Dutton bits are handmade and backed by a lifetime guarantee, ensuring quality craftsmanship and durability. Multiple customers report owning several of these bits and becoming lifetime Dutton customers, noting that the superior balance, feel, and results justify the investment.

Absolutely. Many customers own multiple Dutton Dog Bone snaffles, with some having one for each horse to avoid constantly adjusting headstalls. The bit's mild, well-balanced design and proven track record make it a reliable choice across different horses and disciplines.