No matter your age, buying a horse is an exciting time. Before making a major purchase, you need to know what to look for when buying a horse.

Buying a horse is a big commitment. A lot of money, time, care and dedication goes into owning a horse. Finding the right horse for you is important to building a positive relationship.

Before you start buying a horse, it is important to know what to expect from a horse. Do you want to go horseback riding, performing or going to school? Is there a specific breed you want? Make sure you know what your plans are for you and your new horse so you can find the right pair.

Here are eight things to look for when buying a horse.

1. Age

For many people, it may be desirable to purchase a foal and raise it yourself. However, raising a pony takes a lot of hard work, dedication and skill and requires someone with a lot of experience.

For most people, the ideal is to buy a fully trained and experienced horse. The best age to buy a horse is usually between 5 and 16, which is when the horse is at its prime. Young horses are not suitable for new owners as they are usually not very experienced.

Buying a horse in your late teens or early twenties can be a good option for an inexperienced rider looking for a reliable mount. However, it is important to note that an older horse may be more sensitive to health and welfare. Also, they may only have a few years before they retire.

It is said that when buying a horse for a child, both the child and the horse must be at least 20 years old. If you have a 10 year old, you will need to purchase a horse that is at least 10 years old.

This saying can also apply to adults with years of experience. While this is a good reliable formula, you also need to consider the experience, background and temperament of the horse and rider.

2. Conformation

Besides being attractive, well-built horses are generally more likely to have a healthy build. A good outward appearance is a sign of balance and good skeletal and muscular shape.

Good conformation is especially important for show horses. A well-balanced, strong, structurally correct horse is likely to be a good mover. In addition, outward appearance is part of the assessment standard in some chapters of the course.

Also Read: Top 10 Horse Breeds for New Owners.

3. Level of experience

An inexperienced horse and an inexperienced rider do not get along. As the old saying goes, “green and black are black and blue”, which means an inexperienced rider can be dangerous when dealing with an inexperienced horse.

An inexperienced rider often lacks the skills to handle a green horse. You need a horse with a balanced, well-trained head. First time buyers should always avoid horses listed as “need ready” or “green” as they don’t go well together.

You should always look for a horse that matches your level of experience. Beginners and experienced riders should look for horses that are fully trained and have many years of experience. Experienced riders with the appropriate skills may be interested in a bigger challenge, such as a young horse or a green horse.

When looking for a horse to sell, it’s always a good idea to bring your trainer with you. They can assess the horse and help you decide if you are a good match.

4. Hardness

If you plan to run or ride regularly, health is key. A sick horse is likely to result in many vet bills.

When you see a horse for sale, ask to see it in hand, under saddle, and ride it yourself. This way you can get a good idea if the horse is healthy and if that is what you are looking for.

Since not all health and wellness issues are obvious, it’s always a good idea to get a veterinary exam before buying. During a pre-purchase vet visit, your vet will assess the horse’s general condition, check for signs of previous injuries, listen to the heart and lungs, examine the teeth, and examine the eyes.

Fifth Prize

Before buying a horse, establish a budget. Not only do you need to calculate the cost of buying a horse, but also its upkeep such as feed, farrier fees, vet fees, bridles, equipment and tuition/training.

Be realistic with your budget and understand what driving can do for you. You will often be able to find good quality riding or training horses for a few thousand or less. A high-quality show horse will likely cost significantly more, easily ranging from $7,000 to $80,000 or more.

If a horse looks too good to be true at the price quoted, it’s erring on the side of caution. The seller may leave important information about the horse’s health or temperament if they are desperate to sell. Always research the horse and ask lots of questions.

6. Temperament

When looking for a horse to buy, temperament is an important factor to consider. For the first time buyer, finding a well-behaved, friendly and reliable horse is especially important.

A “hot” horse can be a fun challenge for an experienced rider. However, a hot, energetic and enthusiastic horse can easily overwhelm an inexperienced rider. Find a horse that not only matches your skills but also your energy level.

If you are looking for a trail or teaching horse, you will want one that is calm and relaxed. For show horses, you’ll probably want something a little more glamorous with a little more allure.

When buying your first horse, you want to look for one that doesn’t suck easily and is bombproof. A nervous, inexperienced rider and an easily frightened horse do not mix. Find a horse you can trust and feel safe.

7. Lineage

If you are looking for a horse purely for trail riding and recreational riding, the horse’s ancestry is usually not a big deal. However, if you are looking for a show horse, a good pedigree can be important.

When looking for a show horse, you need to find out if it is registered and review its paperwork. Study the horse’s pedigree to better understand its past.

A horse’s pedigree, particularly sire, dam, and sire, can be a good indicator of how a horse will develop. Breeders will carefully study the pedigree to produce the best horses possible. If the horse came from a champion stallion who obviously had high quality horses, chances are that horse was also high quality.

8. Wallpaper

Before making a purchase decision, it is important to know the horse’s past. This will give you a good idea of ​​what to expect from your new partner.

Ask the owner if the horse has ever had any injuries or health issues that could be of concern. Learn what the horse is for. Find out if the horse has had rides, lessons or shows. Ask how often they get paid, if they have any flaws or shortcomings, and how far they’ve been pushed.

If the horse is a show horse, look at its records. See how the horse is put on the shows and how often they are shown. If possible, show videos and photos of the horse to compare with those at home.

frequently asked Questions

How much does it cost to own a horse?

Before buying a horse, you need to consider the monthly cost of owning a horse. Feeding typically costs between $150 and $1,000 per month, depending on your location and whether your horse lives in a stable or on pasture.

Often, the annuity covers the cost of food, bedding, and basic supplies. You will also have to pay to have a farrier trim your horse’s hooves every 6 to 8 weeks, which usually costs between $45 and $150 . a year.

You also need saddle and grooming equipment. A saddle can easily cost between $700 and $3,000 or more, and a bridle can cost between $50 and $200. Grooming products like brushes, fly sprays, and hoof grease can easily cost $100 or more. .

How much does a visit to the veterinarian cost before buying a horse?

In general, a pre-purchase veterinary exam costs between $250 and $500. The exam is a thorough evaluation of the horse to ensure its health and good condition. In some cases, multiple x-rays and blood tests may be needed to complete the exam.

What is the alternative to buying a horse?

Buying a horse isn’t realistic for everyone, but there are other options. Renting and joint ownership are the two main alternatives to owning your own horse.

Some owners may offer their horses for hire, which usually requires a small monthly fee in addition to the cost of feed. This gives you the option of acquiring all or part of the horse at a fraction of the cost. Another alternative is a limited liability company (LLC) or partnership, which shares the cost of buying and owning a horse.