How to Choose a Reining Horse

Reining is an equestrian event that demands precision movement, dedication and teamwork between horse and rider. Nearly any horse can participate in the sport of reining, but to be truly successful, a rider must select an appropriate reining mount. Choosing a reining horse can be a complex and difficult process, but can be accomplished with a bit of research and investigation.

Instructions

1. Compile a list of traits that you want in a reining horse. A short topline, straight legs and strong hocks are important qualities sought after in reining horses. A successful reining horse also needs to have a calm and stable temperament to stand up to the rigors of training and showing. Also note any qualities that you do not want in your new reining prospect so that you can avoid those issues.

2. Study current reining horse bloodlines. Winning reining horses normally come from horses that have proven themselves as reining competitors, so getting a mount from proven stock is important.

3. Visit local reining competitions to see which horses are winning in your area. Finding local trainers and breeders is an important step to locating your next reining horse. Local trainers will be able to offer you advice and clarify any questions that you might have.

4. Contact trainers and breeders that you are interested in. Discuss with them your interest in the sport of reining and tell them what qualities you are looking for in your reining horse. They will evaluate their stock and let you know if they have any horses that suit your needs.

5. See horses that you might be interested in personally. The best way to evaluate a new reining horse is to see him hands on. Check out all the horses that you might be interested in before setting your heart on one, so that you get the best overall idea of the quality of horses available to you.

6. Ride all of the horses you think have potential. Be sure to guide them through all the normal gaits and reining moves, such as spins and sliding stops, so that you can determine if they will be able to perform the movements in competition. Videotape your rides if possible, as it is always a good idea to review your rides to see if there are any flaws in the horses that you missed.

7. Call the vet and schedule an exam on the horse that you like best. Be sure that the vet checks for any lameness or soundness issues, as a lame horse cannot be used in competition. Review any questions you might have with your vet at this time so that you get the most pleasure and enjoyment out of your new reining horse.

Tips & Warnings

• Look at a variety of horses. Each horse is unique in structure and personality, so looking over a wide range of horses will help you choose the best mount.

• Never purchase a horse that appears sick or unsound. Reining is a very strenuous sport and only healthy horses can hold up to the rigors of training and competition.