NRHA Reining Horse
Breed Description

The Reining Horse is not a distinct breed but rather refers to horses specifically bred and trained for the discipline of reining—a western riding sport that showcases the athletic ability of the stock horse through precise patterns including spins, sliding stops, rollbacks, and circles. While horses from various breeds may compete in reining, the overwhelming majority are American Quarter Horses or closely related breeds.

The National Reining Horse Association (NRHA), founded in 1966, serves as the primary governing body for the sport, establishing rules, patterns, and judging standards recognized worldwide. The NRHA has developed a worldwide membership and sanctioning structure that has significantly influenced how other organizations approach reining competition.

Other registries hosting reining competition include the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), American Paint Horse Association (APHA), Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). Reining achieved FEI (International Federation for Equestrian Sports) recognition in 2000, becoming the first western discipline to gain such international status, though this affiliation later ended due to organizational differences.

Horses competing in reining may carry multiple registrations—for example, an AQHA-registered Quarter Horse can also compete in NRHA events. The development of specific "reining horse" bloodlines has created horses bred over generations for the specialized athletic requirements of the discipline, effectively creating a type within the Quarter Horse breed much like cow horses, halter horses, or racing Quarter Horses.

The ideal Reining Horse displays the balance, athleticism, and correctness necessary for executing demanding maneuvers while remaining visually pleasing. Unlike some western show horses bred for extreme type, successful Reining Horses demonstrate functional conformation that supports their athletic work. They typically stand 14.2 to 16 hands with weights from 1,000 to 1,300 pounds.

The head should be refined and attractive with an intelligent, calm expression. A clean throatlatch allows for proper flexion and breathing. The profile is typically straight. Reining Horses often carry their heads level with or below the withers during pattern work, making neck conformation critical—necks should tie into the chest well, allowing comfortable low head carriage without forcing it artificially.

Shoulders require sufficient slope and length to allow the reaching stride needed for rundowns while maintaining the ability to collect for stops. Withers should be adequately defined to keep saddles in place during the dramatic weight shifts of stops and rollbacks. The back is short and strong, transmitting power from hindquarters to front end efficiently.

Hindquarters provide the power for reining's signature maneuvers. Deep, well-muscled hips, long slopes from hip to hock, and powerful gaskin muscles generate the drive for sliding stops. Interestingly, many successful Reining Horses display slightly cow-hocked rear leg conformation—hocks turned slightly inward—which positions them naturally for the low, driving stops the discipline requires.

Legs must be correct and sound, as the stresses of reining place tremendous demands on joints and tendons. Short cannons, substantial bone, strong joints, and well-angled pasterns help horses withstand years of competitive work. Hooves should be well-formed and sound, capable of wearing sliding plates and withstanding the forces of stops.

Reining Horses appear in all Quarter Horse colors, with sorrel and chestnut being most common, followed by bay. Flashy colors like palomino, buckskin, and roan appear frequently, as do horses with chrome (white markings). Color has no bearing on competitive scoring.

Reining Horse temperament represents a precise balance: willing enough to try hard on every maneuver, calm enough to remain controllable at high speed, sensitive enough to respond to subtle cues, and mentally tough enough to handle the pressure of competition. This combination produces horses that seem almost eager to execute their patterns while remaining obedient to their riders' direction.

Willingness defines the Reining Horse personality. These horses must want to perform, approaching their work with enthusiasm rather than merely tolerating it. A willing Reining Horse engages with the pattern, puts effort into every maneuver, and seems to enjoy the challenge. This willingness, sometimes described as "try" or "heart," separates good Reining Horses from great ones.

Sensitivity and responsiveness allow Reining Horses to detect and react to minimal cues. The best reining communication occurs almost invisibly—slight shifts in rider weight, subtle leg pressure, barely perceptible rein aids. Horses bred and trained for reining develop remarkable sensitivity to these cues, executing complex maneuvers from aids that observers may not even see.

Controlled energy characterizes Reining Horse behavior. These athletes possess substantial power and drive, yet must remain completely manageable during the brief periods between explosive maneuvers. They transition from the speed of a rundown to a dead stop, from stillness to rapid spinning, demonstrating athletic versatility and mental composure simultaneously.

Off the pattern, well-bred and trained Reining Horses typically display calm, manageable temperaments. They should tie quietly, accept grooming and veterinary attention without fuss, and behave appropriately in the varied environments of competition facilities. Excessive nervousness detracts from trainability and show ring success.

The mental component of reining includes the ability to handle pressure. Competition horses must perform consistently in varied environments with different footing, crowds, and distractions. Training develops this mental toughness, but natural temperament provides the foundation upon which training builds.

Reining Horse facilities require careful attention to arena footing—the single most critical facility element for these specialized athletes. Beyond arena considerations, management focuses on maintaining physical condition, preventing injury, and preparing horses mentally for the demands of training and competition.

Arena footing for reining must allow horses to slide while providing appropriate cushion to protect joints. Specialized footing mixes, often incorporating sand with various additives, create surfaces that support sliding stops without excessive jarring. The footing must remain consistent; changes in moisture, compaction, or composition affect how horses slide. Many serious reining operations employ dedicated arena maintenance equipment.

Stabling should provide adequate space and ventilation for horses in athletic conditioning. Standard 12x12 foot stalls work well, with rubber mats providing cushion. Good ventilation prevents respiratory issues that could affect performance. Reining horses in training may spend considerable time stabled, making comfortable accommodations important.

Turnout provides essential physical and mental benefits. Daily turnout in paddocks or pastures allows Reining Horses to move freely, maintaining flexibility and mental balance. Turnout should occur on safe footing to prevent injury. Many operations use individual turnout to prevent injury from herd interactions.

Round pens and lunging areas support groundwork and exercise programs. These spaces allow horses to move and warm up before under-saddle work. Safe, well-maintained footing in these areas prevents injury during less-controlled movement.

Equipment storage requires organization for the specialized tack reining requires. Multiple saddles, bridles with various bits, protective boots, and other gear accumulate quickly. Climate-controlled tack rooms preserve leather and equipment function.

Veterinary and farrier access proves especially important for Reining Horses. Regular soundness monitoring helps catch developing issues before they become serious. Access for farriers who understand sliding plate application and the specific hoof care needs of Reining Horses maintains soundness.

Reining Horse nutrition supports athletic performance while maintaining ideal body condition for the demanding movements the discipline requires. Neither too fat nor too thin, competitive Reining Horses need adequate energy for training and competition without excess weight that impairs mobility or stresses joints.

Quality forage forms the foundation of Reining Horse nutrition, comprising the majority of daily intake. Grass hay varieties like timothy, orchard grass, or quality mixed grass hay provide fiber and baseline nutrition. Alfalfa may supplement energy needs for horses in heavy training, though its caloric density requires careful management to prevent excess weight gain. Most Reining Horses do well with 1.5-2% of body weight daily in hay.

Concentrate feeds supplement forage energy when training demands require additional calories. Modern performance horse feeds provide controlled starch and sugar levels while delivering energy through fats and fermentable fiber. These formulations provide sustained energy without the metabolic spikes associated with high-grain diets. Feed amounts vary based on individual metabolism and workload, typically ranging from 4-8 pounds daily for horses in regular training.

Fat supplementation adds concentrated calories for horses needing additional energy without volume. Vegetable oil, rice bran, or commercial fat supplements can bump caloric intake for hard-keepers or horses in intense training. Fat provides more calories per weight than grain without the digestive risks of high-starch diets.

Joint supplements gain particular importance for Reining Horses given the demands on their joints. Glucosamine, chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and various other ingredients may support joint health and comfort. While evidence varies for individual supplements, many trainers report benefits from consistent supplementation.

Electrolytes replace minerals lost through sweat during training and competition. Particularly important in warm weather or during intensive training periods, electrolyte supplementation maintains proper hydration and muscle function.

Fresh, clean water must remain constantly available. Reining Horses may consume 10-15 gallons daily depending on conditions and workload. Monitor consumption as changes may indicate health concerns.

Reining Horse health management focuses on maintaining the soundness essential for athletic careers while addressing the specific stresses the discipline places on joints, muscles, and soft tissues. These horses work at the extremes of athletic performance, making proactive monitoring and prompt intervention critical. With appropriate management, Reining Horses enjoy productive careers and transition successfully to retirement.

The partnership between Reining Horse trainers, veterinarians, and farriers maintains soundness throughout competitive careers. Horses showing signs of unsoundness should rest and receive veterinary evaluation rather than continuing training that could worsen injuries. Most Reining Horses can transition successfully to lighter work after competitive careers, continuing to serve as pleasure mounts or lower-level competition horses.

Reining Horse training develops the specific skills needed for pattern execution while maintaining the willing, responsive attitude that makes excellence possible. This specialized training typically begins with solid foundation work before progressing to discipline-specific maneuvers. Professional trainers dominate competitive reining, though dedicated amateurs also develop successful horses.

Foundation training establishes the basic responses upon which reining maneuvers build. Young horses learn to move forward, steer, stop, and back from rider cues. They develop the ability to respond to leg pressure for lateral movement and accept light contact while remaining soft in the jaw. This foundation work may occur during the first year under saddle.

Maneuver development introduces the specific skills of reining progressively. Circles teach rate control and the distinction between large fast circles and small slow circles. Lead changes begin as simple transitions before developing into the smooth flying changes required in patterns. Turnarounds start from the halt, building toward the rapid spins of competition.

Sliding stop training develops the signature maneuver of reining. Horses learn to drive their hindquarters under while allowing hind feet to slide, maintaining balance and straightness through the stop. This training progresses gradually, building the physical strength and mental understanding needed for increasingly long slides. Footing plays a critical role in stop training.

Rollback training teaches horses to reverse direction efficiently after stops. The horse must sit into the stop, rock back over the hindquarters, and depart in the opposite direction without hesitation or extra steps. The rollback demonstrates the horse's ability to maintain balance and respond instantly to rider cues.

Pattern work combines individual maneuvers into the sequences required for competition. Horses learn the ten NRHA patterns used in competition, executing each maneuver in the prescribed order while maintaining correct form throughout. Pattern training develops the mental stamina and consistency required for competitive success.

Mental conditioning prepares horses for the pressure of competition. Exposure to different arenas, audiences, and conditions develops the confidence needed to perform consistently away from home. Managing competition anxiety in both horse and rider affects results significantly.

Reining Horses suit owners who appreciate western performance horses and either compete in reining or enjoy the athletic, responsive partnership these horses offer. The expense and expertise required for competitive reining limit that pursuit to dedicated individuals, though many Reining Horse buyers seek trained horses for pleasure riding or lower-level competition.

For competitive riders, Reining Horses offer the opportunity to pursue a dramatic, crowd-pleasing discipline with well-established competition structures from local shows through world-class futurities. The NRHA and AQHA provide comprehensive competition opportunities for all skill levels. Major events including the NRHA Futurity offer substantial prize money and prestige.

The financial commitment to competitive reining is substantial. Purchase prices for competitive-quality horses range from tens of thousands for started prospects to hundreds of thousands for proven winners or elite breeding stock. Training costs run $1,000-2,000+ monthly with top professionals. Show expenses including entry fees, travel, and accommodations add significantly to annual budgets. Only riders prepared for significant investment should pursue competitive reining seriously.

For non-competitive owners, trained Reining Horses make excellent pleasure mounts due to their responsiveness, athleticism, and typically calm dispositions. A well-trained reiner transitions smoothly to trail riding, ranch work, or casual western riding. Their training produces horses that respond to subtle cues and remain controllable in varied situations.

Skill requirements for Reining Horse ownership depend on intended use. Competitive riders need extensive experience in western horsemanship and either professional guidance or years of dedicated practice. Pleasure riders should have solid basic skills but can enjoy trained Reining Horses without competition experience.

Time requirements for competitive reining are substantial—horses in training need consistent work, and competition schedules during show season demand significant time investment. Pleasure use requires more modest time commitment comparable to any performance horse ownership.

The reining community offers a welcoming culture with mentorship available for newcomers. Organizations from NRHA to breed associations provide educational resources. Local clubs and clinics introduce the sport to interested riders.