How do you start your steers?

Josh,

You’ll find a wealth of advice on this site from the experts. But I’m not one of them. However, in the context of your question my lack of experience may be a virtue. I was standing in your shoes last October, as the proud owner of a devon heifer and bull (both 3 months old).

The first step is to start building a relationship with each animal individually. Don’t be in a big hurry. Work them one at a time. Touch and handle them A LOT. For safety I think it is extremely important. If they don’t get used to you working behind them you’re going to get kicked at some point. A brush and feed can sweeten the deal.

For me the next step was leading them on a halter. I’d say “walk”, tap them on the rump with a whispy stick, walk a short distance, say “whoa” and give them a light tap on the nose. I’m convinced that the actual words don’t matter at all. You could say “banana split” and “martini” as long as you’re consistent. The halter is important, especially initially, but focus on getting them to respond to stick and voice. When they’re stopping and starting well add gee and haw into the routine, again using the stick to reinforce the signal (very lightly).

Keep the training sessions brief and frequent. I’d work mine for 15 minutes or so before and after work every day. We built up to long walks in the woods and on logging roads. Walk them over small logs, through and around obstacles. The more things you can familiarize them with the better in my opion. I have to cross a bridge to get to my woodlot. So we spent a lot of time on that. New situations can be scary for them. Coax them on but don’t push too far too fast. Take baby steps. Challenge them but be careful to setup situations where they can succeed. When you push too far or too fast it will definitely knock your training back a few steps. You’re trying to build their confidence in you as much as anything else.

Have fun an keep us posted on how you’re doing with them.

Regards,

-Matt
W. Topsham, VT