The Versatile Reined Cow Horse: A Powerhouse in the Western Performance World
By Jon Conklin • Updated • 6–8 min read
Reined cow horses are the Swiss Army knives of the western world—ratey, gritty, and broke enough to hit every cue. Here’s how the event works and a simple, show-safe care routine that keeps them ready from herd work to fence runs.
What Is a Reined Cow Horse?
In NRCHA-style competition, horses show in three phases: herd work (cutting), reining, and fence work (boxing, then taking a cow down the fence with turns and a circle). It’s a test of precision, cow sense, and gears.
“Feel first. Form follows.”
Why These Horses Are Elite
Mind & Mouth
They stay soft in the face and tuned to the seat—thinking through the cow while still nailing pattern details.
Body Control
Deep stops, fast rollbacks, effortless lead changes, and the gas to control a cow down the wall without losing balance.
Training & Recovery Priorities
1) Protect soft tissue
Stops, spins, and fence turns stack load. Rotate intensity, add hand-walking, and keep cool-downs consistent.
2) Short schools, sharp timing
Drill the cue, then quit. Save juice for show day and fence runs when it counts.
3) Recovery is a habit
Use sensation-free topical care after work so recovery calms the horse instead of lighting them up.
Show-Safe Care: Calm, Predictable, Effective
Draw It Out® products are built for the show pen. Our flagship gel is sensation-free (no heat, no sting) and stays where you put it—perfect for horses that need focus, not fireworks.
For skin issues from sweat, sand, or boots, reach for barrier-supporting care that won’t leave residue or stain coats.
Draw It Out® keeps post-work care calm and consistent. Questions? Reach out—we’re here for real riders.
Reined Cow Horse FAQ
What phases make up reined cow horse competition?
Herd work (cutting), reining, and fence work (boxing, then taking a cow down the fence with turns and a circle). Check your show’s current rulebook for specifics.
How do I manage soreness after fence work?
Prioritize hand-walking, stretching, and sensation-free topical care after runs. Keep schools short in the days following heavy fence classes.
Are Draw It Out® products show-safe?
Our flagship gel is sensation-free and trusted by competitive riders. Always review current association rules and ingredient guidance.
Can I layer MasterMudd™ with the gel?
Yes—use the gel broadly post-work, then apply MasterMudd™ to targeted high-motion areas as labeled. Avoid stacking too many products on the same spot.
I will never stop talking about how great and convenient this spray is and is our saving grace. I prefer to use this spray before a workout and when we are hauled out in the trailer, the best to spray after a run.
Jenna, this is exactly why we made the spray. Quick, easy, and there when you need it—before the ride to keep them loose, after the run to keep them fresh, and even on the road when the trailer miles stack up. We’re so glad it’s become your “saving grace.” Thanks for letting us ride along with you and your horses.
