What Should I Consider When Choosing a Horse?
Selecting a horse is exciting, whether it is your first or your fiftieth. A new horse can open up a world of possibilities and fun, but it is also important to make sure that the horse will meet your needs as a rider. An ideal horse will perform well, stay healthy, and be pleasurable to work with, whether you are trail riding, using the horse for plowing, or participating in equestrian events like dressage and racing. Keep your needs and limitations in mind when you are searching for a horse to ensure that you get the perfect horse for you.
The first thing to think about is what the horse will be used for: pleasure riding, driving, dressage, jumping, eventing, racing, or working, for example. Next, think about the rider's experience. If you are buying the horse for yourself, ask for an honest assessment from your trainer about your level of skills and the type of horse that might be suited to you. If the horse is being purchased for someone else, especially a child, purchase a horse which will suit his or her abilities. You should also consider costs; horses range widely in cost depending on their level of training, breeding, and history, but they also cost a lot of money to maintain. Think about boarding fees, feeding, and veterinary care when purchasing a horse, and if you have never owned a horse before, ask horse owning friends about the costs of upkeep.
Also think about aesthetic and breed needs. Heavier riders will need larger, sturdier horses, while small and short riders would do well to think about ponies and small breeds. Certain breeds of horse have characteristics that are favorable for some activities: Clydesdales, for example, drive very well, while Thoroughbreds are built for speed. If you prefer a particular coat color or breed, consider this when looking for horses; if you want a Palomino, you will never be happy with a Paint.
Next, think about training. Many people prefer to buy horses fully trained, so that they can get straight to work. If you want to train the horse yourself, decide on whether you want a totally green horse, or a horse with some basic skills. Be aware that different styles of riding require different training: do not purchase a dressage horse for trail riding, for example, or a Western pleasure horse for English jumping. The older a horse is, the better trained and behaved it tends to be, unless it has picked up bad habits. If you are purchasing a horse for an inexperienced rider, you certainly want a well trained, well behaved horse.
Once you have thought about needs and training, start checking out horses for sale in your area. Make several appointments to look at horses, and do not settle for the first one you meet. When going to inspect a horse, look it over carefully. Inspect the way in which the horse is put together. Is the horse built well for the tasks you need it to perform? Take someone more experienced along if you are not familiar with what to look for. While you are inspecting the horse, look for a clean, healthy coat, bright eyes, and any signs of sores and swelling. Ask the owners about the horse's history, and keep an eye on the horse's behavior. A horse which stands quietly while being examined is a good candidate for purchase, while a horse which fusses, nips, or fidgets may be a trouble maker.
After you have met and examined the horse, spend some time using the horse as you would after your purchase it. Saddle it for riding on the trail or take it through a dressage routine in an arena, or harness it for driving or other work. While using the horse, watch for signs of lameness and poor behavior, and see how well the horse responds to commands and guidance. Be certain to ask the owners about how the horse has been trained and handled, and ask for some time to think the decision over. If you liked the horse, call the owners and ask for a second appointment, and bring a veterinarian along for a second opinion. If you are not interested, call the owners and inform them, as a basic courtesy.
Written by S.E. Smith
