Cowboys are an iconic image in the American West and have a rich history and culture. Part of this culture includes the way cowboys interact with their horses. Cowboys have a special relationship with their horses and have a variety of terms they use to refer to them. In this article, we will explore what cowboys call their horses and the reasons behind the terms they use.
Horses as Companions
Cowboys worked long and hard hours out in the wild. As such, they often developed strong bonds with their horses. Horses were a critical part of the cowboy lifestyle, and they were much more than just a means of transportation. Horses were companions and friends, and cowboys often formed a deep bond with them.
Common Terms for Horses
There are a variety of terms cowboys used to refer to their horses. Common terms include:
- Buckaroo: A term used to refer to an experienced and skilled horseman.
- Cayuse: A term used to refer to a horse that is able to maneuver quickly and easily.
- Mustang: A term used to refer to a wild or untamed horse.
- Pony: A term used to refer to a small horse.
- Prairie Horse: A term used to refer to a horse that is able to travel long distances.
- Stallion: A term used to refer to a male horse.
- Maverick: A term used to refer to a horse that is independent and unruly.
- Nag: A term used to refer to an old and worn-out horse.
- Cow Pony: A term used to refer to a horse that is used to herd cattle.
- Cayuse Pony: A term used to refer to a small and hardy horse.
Reasons for the Terms
The terms cowboys used for their horses were often derived from the horse’s behavior or traits. The terms were also used to describe the horse’s use, such as a “cow pony” being used to herd cattle. The terms were also used to express affection, such as a “maverick” being a horse that was independent and unruly.
Other Terminology
In addition to the terms cowboys used to refer to their horses, they also had a variety of other terms they used. These terms included:
- Hoof: A term used to refer to the horse’s foot.
- Giddy-Up: A term used to get the horse to move faster.
- Hobbles: A term used to refer to a rope or strap used to tie a horse’s legs together.
- Saddle: A term used to refer to the equipment placed on the horse’s back for riders to sit on.
- Lope: A term used to refer to a horse’s running gait.
- Halter: A term used to refer to a rope or strap used to lead a horse.
- Tack: A term used to refer to all of the equipment used to ride a horse.
- Sorrel: A term used to refer to a reddish or chestnut-colored horse.
- Trot: A term used to refer to a horse’s two-beat gait.
- Whinny: A term used to refer to the sound a horse makes.
The Importance of Horses in Cowboy Culture
Horses were an integral part of the cowboy culture and lifestyle. They were used for transportation, work, and companionship. As such, cowboys had a variety of terms they used to refer to their horses. The terms often described the horse’s traits, behavior, or use.
Conclusion
Cowboys and their horses have a special relationship that has been part of the American West for centuries. As part of their culture, cowboys had a variety of terms they used to refer to their horses. These terms often described the horse’s traits, behavior, or use. Horses were an important part of the cowboy lifestyle, and the terms cowboys used for their horses were a reflection of the special bond they shared.
References
- https://www.wild-west-facts.com/Cowboy-Horse-Names.html
- https://www.westernhorseman.com/articles/what-cowboys-call-horses
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/cowboy-horse-names-1880647
- https://www.horsejournals.com/horse-care/cowboy-horse-terminology
- https://www.horses-and-horse-information.com/articles/cowboy-horse-names.shtml