Cob Yanking at the bit!!

[hogged cob]

My cob has been ridden in a Myler comfort Snaffle with hooks for around 6 weeks now, in trot and canter he is fine, but in walk he is starting to drive me mad, he messes with the bit and yanks his had down in to his chest. He does this if you have a contact or even when he is on a loose rein. He did this in the NS Verdibend but not as bad. He does have a very nice light mouth. And it quite obvious that he no longer likes this bit.

What would you suggest, it is really taking its toll on my back as I suffer with bulging discs so I need to get this sorted ASAP both for him and me.

He is a chunky chap who takes a 6 inch bit, we do hacking, schooling and the odd pleasure ride.

 

[Shysmum]

I would get the teeth checked first, and go from there. My cob sometimes did this, and it was a sign he wasn't happy with a normal snaffle, and now has a french link hanging cheek instead.. he has a fleshy tongue and not a lot of space inside, lol.

We also tried out various bitless bridles, and as he can be very strong, settled on an english hackamore - he goes brilliantly in this, and I use it alternating with his bitted bridle. Just gives me more options, really.

Good luck, it's a total minefield

 

[hogged cob]

Thanks for your reply Shysmum, he had his teeth done in May so they are ok,
I have been onto the bit bank today and they have suggested that I try a Happy Tongue with Cherry Rollers. This bit has room for his tongue and he can not grab hold of the rollers. So we will see if this helps. I have a NS Waterford so I am going to use this until the new one arrives. Your are right it is a mine field.

 

[Highlands]

My highland has a happy tongue and loves it but he s so light in th mouth he is one finger but my trad is very strong and no way! Got her in a hanging myler , what about the Waterford, good for cobs ,mmy next a kimblewick!

 

[GwarcoedManon]

My mare does this, but not as bad in her Loose ring Waterford. I need a bit more break when it comes to faster paced work and hacking in company so I'm looking out for a Waterford gag to try and stop her pulling so much in that. She's very fussy when it comes to her mouth so I can't have anything too severe or else she backs off and won't go forward. Horses eh!