A Dutch gag typically consists of four rings: the top one where the cheek pieces attach and then three lower rings offering a variety of rein settings. There are also versions available with just two lower rings that some riders feel look neater.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
How does a Dutch gag work?
The cheek ring is often quite large and flat with all the rings in alignment underneath, and it has a variety of rein options that allows the rider to use one bit for a variety of situations, depending on how much control is required.
“This bit is not legal in dressage competitions, but is often seen in showjumping as it offers a variety of ‘brake’ strengths,” says dressage rider Stef Eardley. “The lower down the bit the rein is attached, the more leverage on the poll and therefore the more control the rider has. It is a popular bit as it is effective but not overly severe and can be used with roundings on the lower ring and main ring to have a softer effect.”
What impact does a Dutch gag have on the horse?
“It comes with a variety of different mouthpieces and the action of the bit can vary greatly depending on the mouthpiece chosen,” Gail Johnson from Horse Bit Hire explains. “The action of this bit is to have some uplift in the mouth and a varying degree of leverage depending on the rein setting used.
“A curb strap is sometimes added which creates curb pressure and further tongue pressure, as the bit is kept stiller in the mouth.
“The long flat cheek can cause problems for some horses depending on facial conformation as, when it tilts, the top ring travels forward and can squash the face which can cause the horse to toss its head to avoid the pressure.”
What horse would benefit from a Dutch gag?
“In general, this cheek action raises the head so wouldn’t often be a first choice for a horse with a high head carriage,” Gail says. “If used in conjunction with a single-jointed mouthpiece, this would give quite a strong head raising signal depending on rein setting. Horses that find this cheek and mouthpiece action too strong, will sometimes lean into it.
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Stephanie Bateman began her career working for Horse & Hound’s sister title HORSE magazine in 2009 after studying a BSc Equine Science degree at Hartpury university. After a few years working in-house for a national equestrian title, she went freelance in 2011, and now writes for a variety of print and online platforms, editing sections of national monthly magazines and contributing regular features and event reports to Horse & Hound. She juggles working with being a mummy and wife, and riding her coloured mare Matilda.
