THE Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders are arguably the most recognizable in their field, so, understandably, there are nine strict rules that they have to obey.
Referred to as “America’s Favorite Team,” the Cowboys and their cheerleader tradition are like no other.

Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Zoe Dale performs during the second half in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals last December[/caption]
Certain rules have to be followed to be a cheerleader for the iconic squad[/caption]
The Cowboys have the NFL‘s most iconic cheerleading squad.
But the rulebook to become a cheerleader isn’t for the common woman.
The first rule is that cheerleaders have to attend every rehearsal.
It’s not known what the penalty is for being sick and missing a practice.
Each contract with a Cowboys cheerleader is one year long, as applicants are notified up front about the duration of the commitment.
A Dallas cheerleader’s requirement is also to have makeup that is “neutral and natural.”
Past rules have revealed that showing up to audition with hair and makeup done, and no wedding rings on game days, is part of the uniform.
The cheerleaders also have to maintain a certain body shape and can’t have glaring gains in weight.
Another appearance requirement is that they are required to wear their hair down at all times.
The Cowboys’ cheerleaders’ legendary attire is given by the team and has to be returned at the end of the season.
They are given tops and short bottoms.
It’s been previously reported that hosiery isn’t part of the team uniform and has to be bought by the cheerleaders themselves.
And the Cowboys cheerleaders need to showcase a clean and wholesome overall appearance to welcome a family-friendly environment.
The cheer girls are paid hourly, like any other occupation
According to Texas Monthly, the cheerleaders earn $12 per hour and $400 each game.

Cowboys cheerleaders cheer during a game versus the Washington Commanders on January 5[/caption]
The last rule, which is a big one, is not to date anyone on the Cowboys roster.
The rule was made decades ago.
Like the other rules, the penalty for being in a relationship with a Cowboy was being booted from the team.
However, the Cowboys player doesn’t face any discipline.
The Cowboys cheerleaders will begin their gameday duties when the team goes on the road to take on the reigning Super Bowl-champion Philadelphia Eagles in the regular-season opener on Thursday, Sept. 4.
NFL important dates 2025 season
March 12 – Free Agency begins
April 24-26 – NFL Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin
September 4 – 2025 season opener (TBC vs Eagles)
November 27 – Thanksgiving Day triple header
January 4, 2026 – End of regular-season
February 8, 2026 – Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California