Dutch gag..

[maddielove]

Just wondering whether it would be the right bit to try for maddie's hacking/jumping situation..
basically she has taken to lowering her head and leaning and basically pulling me out of my seat when she wants to get her own way.
I was hoping to be able to have some leverage/head raising action to help this, would this be a fair enough bit to try?

also, which mouthpiece would be best-a normal eliptical/french link or a waterford because of the fact she has the capability to lean-very badly!

thank you!

 

[PapaFrita]

Goodness, I bet you'll get loads and loads of replies about this

As I understand it, the dutch gag is not a true gag in that it doesn't have a raising action (although this is also disputed!). In fact it acts like a curb, or would if people used it as it's intended, with a curb strap and 2 reins. Having said that, I use one on the Ginger Beastie with one rein and without the strap because he hates it! *sigh* Horses, eh?
If your horse leans, a waterford mouthpiece would probably be quite effective. Have you tried a regular waterford snaffle? Or a hanging cheek before going the dutch gag route?
What are you riding her in at the moment?

 

[maddielove]

Have tried her in a hanging cheek waterford, which was good but feel she could still stick her head between her knees and do what she wants..

I should have probably noted that i plan on riding in 2 reins..possibly roundings though..

At the moment..she is in a french link loose ring snaffle.

 

[Chex]

I use one for Chex sometimes, he pulls his head down and charges off all the time. Its works well for him. I use it with a curb now, but it was more effective without I think. I use it for a month or so when I'm really struggling on hacks, then switch back to his snaffle once he's behaving better. Mine has an eliptical mouthpiece.

 

[Wooleysmum]

Thats what I used to use on Wooley. Changed to a gag, bubble bit, on the middle ring, one set of reins. he has been much better on hacks. He used to tank off if he spooked, I feel I have brakes now. I am no expert though, only a happy havker.

 

[maddielove]

from what i see it seems like a good option..
I looked at the balding gag too-anyone have any opinions on this?

 

[kayleigh_and_rocky]

If you want a head reasing action dont try the dutch gag - the poll pressure on it brings the horses head down lower