 Trained cutting horse being shown in cutting horse competition. The horse's job is to keep the separated cow from returning to the herd. | |
| Other names | Cow horse |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | United States |
| Traits | |
| Distinguishing features | Cow sense, athletic ability, strength, speed and endurance. |
A cutting horse is a stock horse, typically an American Quarter Horse, bred and trained for cutting, a modern equestrian competition requiring a horse and rider to separate a single cow from a herd of cattle and prevent it from getting back to the herd. One of the desired qualities in a cutting horse is "cow sense," described as an innate ability to read a cow, eye to eye, in anticipation of each move.[1] The cutting horse has its roots in the historic cattle ranching industry, where horses with specialized cattle-handling skills were crucial for the work of the cowboy.