Steer Won’t Walk W/ Head Up

[sadiebranham29]

I’m running low on solutions, so I’m hoping someone here can help me
This is my first year showing, and I have a hereford steer that’s insanely stubborn. I tie him up nose to the sky for 1.5-2 hours a day, and I have been for months. He sets up really nice, and he can put his head up, but when he’s walking he refuses to. He’s shoving his head down, pulling on my arm, or he just plain won’t walk. I try to reinforce with treats and discipline him when he misbehaves, but nothing is working. I’ve got about 6 weeks until county show so I’m needing to figure this out- I hope someone has some advice! Thanks!

 

[S_W]

Hereford heads are 100 times heavier than the average cow.

Every single hereford steer I've shown has been the exact same way as yours even with tying the head up for hours.

I would use a leather show halter with a prong lead. It applies double the pressure and makes it easier on you. I find that they seem to behave better with it.

Every time he throws his head down on you, turn him in a tight circle over his nose.

You can also bring the show stick side ways over his nose while walking and tap him on the nose with it.

Honestly, having a steer that won't walk is better than a steer that runs because in showmanship the ring man will help you and your calf isn't dragging you around.

I would also stop giving him treats. You want him to respect you.

 

[steer lover 4ever]

While you are walking him and he won't put his head smack him under the chin hard with showstick. It won't hurt it will just make him put his head up.

 

[Cattlegirl19]

all this is solid advice. i would do both these tricks, and extend your length of tying. my charolais wouldn’t put his head up, so i tied him for about nine hours a day. id take him to food and water every so often and then tie him back up. worked great. good luck; im sure you two will find something that works for you!!