22/12/2025
🧠 The 3-Ring / Dutch Gag: Why It Can Confuse Horses
The 3-ring (Dutch gag) is often chosen to “give more control,” but its mechanics can send mixed messages to the horse, which is elevated further if the contact is inconsistent or the horse is already uncomfortable in the bridle.
When the reins are attached to the lower rings, the bit applies leverage and poll pressure while also acting at the corners of the mouth.
Poll pressure encourages the horse to lower the head, while the lifting action at the lips and mouth encourages head elevation.
Two opposite instructions. One rein aid.
Rather than clarity, many horses respond by searching for relief, showing tension, resistance, inconsistent contact, or evasive behaviours. What feels like “control” is often avoidance or compliance, not comfort, balance or self-carriage.
⚠️ Chin Straps: Protecting Your Horse and Controlling the Gag Action
Bits with gag or leverage mechanics, including better-designed universals, should always be used with a chin strap. This is a safety and welfare essential, not optional.
The strap stabilises the bit, prevents over-rotation, reduces the severity of the gag action, and helps protect the horse’s lips — split or pinched lips are unfortunately all too common when gag bits are used incorrectly.
A correctly fitted strap should be loose, only coming into effect when the bit has rotated to around 45° (image is around 90°). This allows it to limit excessive movement.
If fitted too tightly, the curb engages too early, increasing pressure on the poll and encouraging the horse to drop behind the contact, adding yet another conflicting signal.
Unlike a traditional curb chain, the strap sits higher and does not act on the curb groove in the same way. Its role is stabilisation and moderation, not leverage, making the bit’s engagement more predictable and less harsh. Chin straps are available in leather, padded, or fur-covered versions to improve comfort and pressure distribution.
