How to Train Your Horse to Rope Calves

Not too long ago, calf roping was an essential skill for every working ranch horse, but these days it is primarily a rodeo and horse-show event. Even so, learning to rope calves can be a great way to spend time with your horse, and calf roping is always a popular event at local rodeos and play days.

Things You'll Need

  • Saddle
  • Bridle
  • Lasso
  • Hay bale
  • Plastic calf head
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Instructions

    • 1

      Make sure your horse has all the basics down before you start working on calf roping training. Before you begin, your horse needs to be able to walk, jog and lope on a loose rein. He also needs to stop readily and back quietly.

    • 2

      Get your horse used to the sight of the lasso, first on the ground and later while you are riding. The horse needs to learn not to react to the rope moving past his face.

    • 3

      Ride your horse around the arena, swinging the rope as you go. Move the rope around as much as possible, and continue to do so until your horse does not react or move off a straight line.

    • 4

      Throw the lasso past your horse, just as you would if you were roping a calf. Gather the rope back up and throw the lasso again. Throw the lasso from as many different angles and directions as possible.

    • 5

      Purchase a plastic calf mold from an online horse supply retailer or tack shop and attach it to an old bale of hay. Place the hay bale in the middle of the arena and practice roping it.

    • 6

      Back your horse up as soon as you catch the plastic calf head, and continue backing until the rope is taut. Dismount your horse and move down the rope. If your horse tries to follow you, remount and back him up until the rope is taut again. Continue to reinforce that the rope must remain taut while you are dismounted.

    • 7

      Look for events where you can practice with live cattle. Many ranches will host practice events where calf ropers can pay a fee to practice with their young horses. You can also enter small rodeos and horse shows with calf-roping events to practice with your horse.