Milder alternative to a dutch gag

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Gorgeous George

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When I am schooling George I use a hanging cheek mullen mouth myler, which I am very happy with for flatwork in an enclosed area.

But when we hack and jump he wears a dutch gag with the reins on the 1st ring below the snaffle ring. This really is for my benefit as I am quite nervous and although George isn't really strong he does have a tendency not to listen and go 'stiff' in his mouth if he is excited or scared by something. So riding with the gag makes me feel that there is extra control if I need it as he really does listen and respond to it, and is quite light in my hand.

The thing is it probably isn't necessary and more and more I have noticed that when I take up a contact with it he shakes his head and snatches at the reins. So any suggestions for something that is just a bit milder / more suitable?

By the way he has recently had his back checked and teeth done
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he also wears a flash and running martingale for hacking / jumping.

Thanks
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If you are after a slightly milder bit try a wilkie snaffle, but from the sound of it you only use the duch gag for jumping so maybe the reaction is simply him getting excited cause he will know he is jumping as soon as you tack him up.
I used to have a working stallion that was ridden very quietly in a snaffle and could be lead by a child but if you put him in his serving bridle he was a whole different animal.
Hope this makes some sense.
Teresa
 
I would try the wilkie snaffle then my old mare has one when i need a touch more control than with her german hollowmouth, and it does make a big difference.
Good luck hope you find something you are both happy with.
Anyway why ru listening to me i have just spent 4 weeks hacking a newly broken welsh D i a headcollar with reins!!! but only so his sarcoid treatment can work!! i must be mad.
Please do not take any advice from the mad woman......
Teresa
 
Why not just put the rein on the snaffle/large ring?
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It would be not too disimilar to your hanging cheek, but with a jointed mouthpiece.
 
Try the big ring of the gag - I use this for my horse that goes in a hanging cheek for flatwork - if not try a wilkie or a double jointed gag such as a french link or lozenge.
 
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what about a waterford snaffle?

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Yes, rereading the OP, I think this would do you nicely, as he would not be able to lean on it. You can get them in hanging cheek aswell
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[ QUOTE ]
[ QUOTE ]
what about a waterford snaffle?

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Yes, rereading the OP, I think this would do you nicely, as he would not be able to lean on it. You can get them in hanging cheek aswell
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in fact...what size is he? i have a spare hanging cheek waterford....
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Personally I would not use a waterford unless completely necessary.
If you like the gag action and feel this helps, I would go for a Wilkie snaffle!
 
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