A Beginner's Guide for Showing Cattle

A Primer for First Timers

Preparing for and showing cattle can be an extremely rewarding and educational experience for young people. The lessons learned in showing cattle can directly inform their lives in positive ways. Responsibility, patience, good sportsmanship, good organization, confidence, respect for animals and people alike—the list of benefits is a long one. For those interested in the experience, knowing how to prepare the animal and demonstrate smart showmanship will be essential for success in the ring.

Setting Goals

Perhaps your goal is to win a champion ribbon. Nothing wrong with setting high goals we all do it and having something to work toward can be a motivating factor that can lead to success. If you don’t win a champion ribbon first time out, the next time you’ll groom a little finer, handle with a little more control and confidence. As the old cliché goes, it’s the journey, not the destination. If your goal is to win a first place, well, that may not be totally in your control, at the end of the day. The lessons and skills learned as you work toward your goal will be invaluable. After all, that champion ribbon will bring notice to your animal. Positive notice. It also will tell folks that you are a responsible, skilled, and serious handler who knows how to care for his animal and presents an attractive product that, well, wins ribbons. Recognition can possibly lead to financial gain. What are you goals for the animal after the show season? To sell it? Or become member of a replacement herd? Some farmers show cattle to showcase their herd genetics. A champion ribbon is a fine goal in and of itself. It may lead to other successes, as well.