Ask The Trainer

Hi Al! What is the first step when introducing cows for our youngsters? I have a 2 year old quarter horse gelding who has been ridden (reining) for just a few months.I feel its too early and I'm a rookie on cows too. What do you suggest I should focus on now? I really wanna try him on cutting, but I'm not sure where to start.

Thank you for your question. Your horse is old enough to start slowly on cattle. I make sure that my horse is solid in the basics first. He should be quiet, back well, walk, trot, lope under control, stop smoothly, and turn both directions easily. Without these fundamentals, you can confuse your horse and never get a good connection with the cow.

When you start on cattle, merely follow a single cow until you feel a connection. Then parallel a cow, teaching your horse to stop, turn, and go with the cow. Don’t force anything and be sure you stop, back, then turn each time you change direction. This takes time and you must keep your horse light with the pull and be patient.

I hope this helps and that you have fun cutting.

Ride well, Al