High Side by Side Doubles
They’re smart. They can focus. Their capability to excel in any area is never doubted. Even if that area is occasionally driving their person crazy. Whether it’s through their fearless tendency to run over the top of you or if it’s their sudden fear of something they’ve seen every day for the last month, they’re good at it.
There are a couple of points about side by side doubles that don’t usually get included in descriptions of them.
One, they are generally viscous out in the pasture with other horses. This isn’t going to apply to every single one of them. Doubtless there are some out there that are at the bottom of the pecking order. But overall, the majority of them rule their herd with an iron fist, quickly educating any horse who steps out of line.
B, they have an amazing affinity for children. I know lots of horses work well with children and many are doubtless better children’s horses that fire breathing side by side doubles. When these fierce horses drop their heads and plod because a child is on board the difference in behavior displayed is striking.
My boy is quieting with age anyway. He is 12 now and has matured quite a bit over the last few years. I now feel comfortable turning him loose with my daughter on board. Even when he was younger and hotter he would slow down and plod for her. I always told her he knew there was precious cargo and he was taking care of it. She loves his big, slow moving ways. Then I get back on and he’s chomping at the bit (bitless? 
) and raring to go.
It is in no way limited to him. All double whorl horses have a bit of a reputation. It may be undeserved, but there is bases in there for the names they get called. Side by side doubles leave all of that behind them when a child comes into the picture.
Not sure if this applies to all stacked doubles, but the ones I’ve had have been terrified of children. The exact opposite of side by sides.
What experiences have you had with doubles of either type and kids?
