138 Training the Trotter, Coacher and Roadster 



To faiTiiliarize the horse with the curb-bit, place 

 it in his mouth a few hours each day and let him 

 stand in the stable. This gives an opportunity to 

 become accustomed to the shape of the new bit in 

 quiet, after which the pressure may be brought to 



Fig. 31. — Improving the action with a curb-bit ; head up and nose in. 



bear by degrees. This is very important, as many 

 horses' mouths are spoiled the first day the curb-bit 

 is used. The bit improves the style and action to 

 such an extent that the driver feels encouraged, and 

 he urges the horse against the bit and curbs him in 

 until the mouth becomes abraded. As the parts be- 



