Advice wanted for a strong pony

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DalesPony

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Hello there!
Basically I'm looking for a bit of advice. I have a dales pony who is very strong when ridden in an eggbutt snaffle, but is just about bearable in a dutch gag on the ring down from the snaffle.
I haven't really done much with him over the summer, but would like to spend the autumn and winter getting him ready to compete in dressage and showing next summer.

Any bits that you can recommend so I don't have my arms ripped out of my sockets, or any schooling ideas are all welcome! I'm pretty much at my wits end.
 
Wilkie Snaffle? I think it has a gag-ish action. As for schooling, more experienced and knowledgeable people will probably be able to advise on this soon. :D
 
I would be doing some in hand work off the bit to re-educate him as to what the bit means - good old pressure and release (in case anyone doesn't understand, use the minimum pressure on the bit and release the INSTANT he offers to slow/stop). And doing a lot of work in the saddle at walk/halt transitions, using the skills from the in hand work and preceding it with seat aids so he comes to learn the meaning of the seat aids and you can be lighter with your hands.
 
Second JIllA s advice. Lots of groundwork to soften and bend , lots of lateral flexion , and then lateral movements. Its the only way to lighten these horses from a driving origin. they are designed to pull vehicles, or carry large weights at a slow pace. Once loosened with lots of gymnastic exercises , they can be super rides, but it does take time.[ a double in the showring will add to the effect!]
 
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