{"product_id":"professionals-choice-equisential-equine-performance-short-shank","title":"Professional's Choice Equisential Equine Performance Short Shank Dogbone Bit - Sweet Iron Mouthpiece","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAchieve the perfect balance of gentle communication and refined control as you transition your horse into leverage. This short-shank dogbone bit is the ultimate tool for riders seeking shoulder lift and lateral suppleness without compromising on equine comfort.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEngineered by the experts at Professional's Choice, the Equisential line focuses on the biomechanics of the horse to promote a harmonious partnership. The 5 1\/8\" sweet iron mouthpiece is designed to oxidize naturally, creating a pleasant taste that encourages salivation and a relaxed, \"soft\" jaw. By combining a three-piece dogbone design with a 5\" short shank, this bit eliminates the harsh nutcracker effect of traditional snaffles while providing the subtle leverage needed for advanced maneuvers and collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eKey Features \u0026amp; Specifications:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e \n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5 1\/8\" Sweet Iron Dogbone:\u003c\/strong\u003e Naturally rusts to create a sweet taste that promotes salivation and encourages a more accepting, supple mouth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e5\" Short Shank Design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Delivers mild leverage for riders moving away from a snaffle, offering clear signals and refined communication without excessive pressure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGag Cheek Action:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides independent rein movement and essential shoulder lift, making it a favorite for barrel racing, reining, and western performance.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThree-Piece Mouthpiece:\u003c\/strong\u003e Distributes pressure evenly across the bars and tongue, significantly reducing the \"nutcracker\" effect on the palate for sensitive horses.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eEnhanced Lateral Control:\u003c\/strong\u003e Specifically engineered to improve responsiveness and body control, serving as the ideal \"step-up\" bit for young or green horses.\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVersatile Discipline Use:\u003c\/strong\u003e Perfect for western pleasure, trail, or speed events where \"rate\" and shoulder elevation are critical for success.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: Is this bit appropriate for a horse currently being ridden in a snaffle?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA: Absolutely. This is a premier \"step-up\" bit specifically designed for horses transitioning from a D-ring or O-ring snaffle to a leverage bit. it offers a logical progression by providing more nuanced control while maintaining a gentle, familiar feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQ: How should I properly adjust this bit for the best results?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA: For optimal performance and comfort, adjust the bit to sit with one small wrinkle at the corners of the horse's mouth. Additionally, ensure your curb strap is loose enough to fit two to three fingers between the strap and the jaw to allow the gag action to engage correctly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Number\/SKU:\u003c\/strong\u003e EQB-401\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Professional's Choice","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46598378160349,"sku":"EQB-401","price":63.37,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0619\/8748\/7965\/files\/9045565112541_hires.webp?v=1793435267","url":"https:\/\/hoovesandpaws.com\/products\/professionals-choice-equisential-equine-performance-short-shank","provider":"Hooves and Paws","version":"1.0","type":"link"}