How to Train a Heeling Horse

Not too long ago, heading horses, heeling horses and other roping horses played an important role in life on the ranch. Today, most of the jobs those horses used to do have been replaced with more modern methods of livestock control, but there is still a place for well-trained roping horses on the horse show and rodeo circuit. Training a heeling horse for competition can be just as rewarding as working on the ranch.

Things You'll Need

  • Roping saddle
  • Bridle
  • Arena or suitable riding area
  • Lasso
  • Hay bale
  • Plastic calf mold
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your horse has mastered all of the basics of riding before starting any advanced training. Before a heeling horse enters training, he should be able to walk, jog and lope on a loose rein, stop willingly and back quietly.

    • 2

      Work your horse with circles, serpentines and other exercises. This will strengthen his leg muscles and hindquarters and make it easier for him to move from a dead stop to a full run.

    • 3

      Teach your horse to move off your legs instead of relying on rein cues. A good heeling horse must be able to work without the reins. Practice riding with the reins tied around the saddle horn, moving your horse around the arena with just your leg cues.

    • 4

      Loop the lasso around the saddle horn and ride your horse while you swing the rope. Use a roping saddle, since those saddles have saddle horns that are specifically designed for holding the rope securely. Swing the rope around the horse's head, taking it past his eye. Continue to work with the rope until the horse no longer shies away from the rope.

    • 5

      Place a bale of hay in the center of the arena and attach a plastic calf head and legs to the bale. These plastic calf molds are routinely used to train roping horses, and they are available at many tack shops and Internet horse product retailers.

    • 6

      Ride your horse toward your plastic calf and throw the rope at the feet. Stop your horse immediately after the catch and ask him to back up. Continue backing your horse until the rope is taut. Continue to practice your roping, but intersperse it with circles, patterns and just plain riding. This will prevent the horse from becoming sour and irritated.

    • 7

      Seek out small horse shows and rodeos in your area so you can practice your horse's skills, and your own, with real calves. There is no substitute for actual cattle when teaching a young heeling horse the ropes. In addition to organized horse shows and rodeos, some ranchers open their properties to allow young horses and riders to practice, with each rider paying a fee for the use of the cattle. These events are often not advertised, with information spreading simply by word of mouth. Hanging around with other roping enthusiasts is the best way to learn about these opportunities.