It's likely you'll also notice a change in your horse's reaction when he's working with a seasoned group. Instead of being alert and interested in the cows, he'll likely be sour-eared and won't pay attention to their movement. Or, he might try to bite, kick, or strike out at a cow that wanders too near. This is when a mechanical cow is useful. They're great supplements to the real deal, and your trainer most likely has one for you to practice with before you invest in your own.
The Cow-Sense Factor
What exactly does "cow sense" mean? In simple terms, a horse with cow sense recognizes what a cow is, and is willing to pursue it with interest. A horse with cutting breeding is more likely to have the natural instinct to do this. Even so, such a horse will need to be introduced to cows at an early age. But, in most cases, a horse without cutting blood can be trained to have cow sense, as long as he's reasonably athletic and has adequate muscling.
Training for cow sense. Working in a large arena with "fresh" cows, ask your horse to follow the group--or just one or two cows. Pay attention to your horse's body language. If his ears are up and you feel his body slightly tense as he watches the cows, he's paying attention.
Once you've followed the cows for a while (until your horse is focused on them) guide him to walk parallel to the cows. Steer him to one side of the group and walk next to them as they move around the arena. Next, guide your horse closer to the cows, but continue to move parallel to them, slightly more toward the front of the group. Then, ask your horse to stop. "Fresh" cows should turn when you do this. When they do, follow them through their turn, so you're facing the other direction. Practice this multiple times in both directions.
Your homework
Once you've amply introduced and worked your horse around the cows, you'll progress to the main components of cutting--working a cow out of a herd, driving a cow down a fence line, and working a cow in a round pen. In preparation for these more advanced maneuvers, there are several exercises you can practice at home. Below, I'm going to list the fundamental skills of a good cutter. In your regular work sessions, practice your own exercises to hone the following skills:
- Willingly and quickly stopping in response to your cues.
- Backing readily when asked.
- Turning freely; supple in his front and back ends so his body parts move together.
- Backing smoothly in circles.
- Turning on the fence (rollbacks).
- Responding softly and supplely through his mouth, neck, and back.
- Responsive; no resistance to your cues, which can take his mind off his job.
Keep in mind: Not only does your horse need to be in shape--you do, too. You need to be physically fit so you'll have adequate stamina and agility to work well with your horse.
Keep in mind: Not only does your horse need to be in shape--you do, too. You need to be physically fit so you'll have adequate stamina and agility to work well with your horse. This way, you're not rigid on his back, which can inhibit his movement. Ask your trainer or a fitness expert to suggest exercises out of the saddle to help you stay in shape for cutting.
Final note: Cutting is a great sport, and can be a lot of fun for both you and your horse. Don't let the cost intimidate you--there are ways you can cut without breaking the bank. So, keep your eyes and ears open for opportunities in your area, research what's out there, and pursue your ambitions to cut!
Revered trainer and legendary horseman Al Dunning has been a leader in the local and national horse industry for over 30 years. He's currently a carded NRCHA judge and is also active in the AQHA and NCHA. Al and his students have garnered 21 world titles, including nine AQHA world champions, nine AQHA reserve world champions, seven AQHA amateur world titles, 500 Arizona year-end championships, 11 All American Congress winners, and one NRHA world championship. He also won the Pacific Cutting Horse Association Derby and several other major cuttings. For more info on Al, visit aldunning.com.
