A very common behavior problem that is encountered in horses is the problem of bit snatching. There are reasons this occurs and there are easy ways to combat it

Bit Snatching is usually based in the fact that the horse is trying to assert his dominance over you. Horses are herd animals and are wired to either look towards the dominant herd member or become the dominant horse in the herd. Your horse should look to you as the dominant being around them or you'll have a lot of behavior issues as your horse continually tests you. Suddenly deciding he really doesn't feel like having a bit in his mouth can be one of those tests.

Not only will some horses snatch the bit out of your hand when you attempt to place a bridle on them, some will run away with the bit or toss the bit aside and then whinny and shake their heads much like a naughty child who is doing exactly something he knows he shouldn't.

Solutions can be found in the reasons he is engaging in this behavior. He may be frightened of the bit. He may have been hurt in the past by someone who used a bit that hurt his mouth or was too rough. Horses have long memories for training that has gone badly.

Remember, the area on the jawbone of the horse where a bit sits is as sensitive as your shinbone. Imagine a piece of metal rubbing on your shin and you'll have a rough idea of the gentleness that should be used when using a bridle to control your horse when you ride, never jerk on the reigns suddenly, especially if you're just training your horse to take a bit. Make sure the fit is comfortable for your horse.

Check the teeth of your horse and make sure they are in tiptop shape. If he is physically okay, gently reinforcement yourself as top horse in his eyes will overcome the problem of bit snatching and you'll have a great companion for years to come.