Learning Through Chute Dogging

Chute dogging strips the event down to the part that most new athletes need the most work on: controlling a steer with your hands and your feet.

You start beside the steer in the chute, take your hold, and bring him to a stop before turning him. There is no horse, no barrier, and no hazer, which means nothing to hide behind either.

Work on the hold first. Right hand on the far horn, left hand on the near horn, elbows in, and hips underneath you. If your arms are doing the work, your feet are in the wrong place.

Once the hold is automatic, add the stop, then the turn. Most coaches will keep a student on this progression for several sessions before adding speed.