Western Horse Show Checklist (Printable PDF)

Entries and paperwork

Read the prize list: classes, age and division rules, equipment and attire rules
Confirm membership and eligibility with your association (AQHA, APHA, 4-H or others)
Submit entries before the closing date; confirm stalls, shavings and hay
Get the patterns for your classes (horsemanship, trail, ranch riding, reining) and read them closely
Confirm Coggins, health certificate and vaccination requirements for the venue
Book trainer, groom, trailer and lodging; plan your budget

Horse fitness and care

Schedule the farrier visit for about 1 to 2 weeks before the show
Dental and veterinary check if due; ask your vet about travel and show-day plans
Build fitness for the number of classes and patterns you will ride
Practice trailer loading and a trial haul if the horse is inexperienced
Plan clipping, bridle path and bath schedule

Practice and polish

Rider outfit

Show hat clean and shaped, or approved helmet where the rules allow or require it
Show shirt: long-sleeved and neat, as the class and rulebook require
Pants or jeans clean, pressed and the right length over your boots
Chaps if required or customary for your classes
Boots polished, with a proper heel; belt and buckle
Gloves if used; hair neatly tied back; back number and holder
Backup shirt and pants in case of spills or tears

Western tack and equipment

Grooming and show look

Feed, stall and health kit

The day before

Arrival and setup

Before your class

After your class

Pack out and back at the barn

Clean the stall as the venue requires; settle fees with the office
Pack the trailer carefully and check that nothing is left behind
Walk your horse before loading; offer water and hay for the trip
Unload and check legs and overall condition; give a light feed
Clean tack and wash pads; hang your show clothes
Give your horse an easy day; watch for fever, cough or lethargy and call your vet if concerned
Write down what went well and what to improve next time

Western horse show checklist