By Jess Hallas-Kilcoyne

Buying a horse is one of the most exciting experiences you will ever have as a horse person. However, the process of shopping for a horse can also be lengthy, difficult, and stressful. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for riders to end up purchasing horses that are unsuitable, whether in temperament, talent, or soundness – a decision with expensive, emotionally wrenching consequences. A horse is an investment, so take the time to choose an equine partner that will satisfy your needs and wants. The following tips will help ensure that you end up with the horse of your dreams:

1. Don’t go it alone. Enlist the help of an experienced horse person, whether your coach or a knowledgeable friend, who can help you evaluate the prospective horse’s temperament, talent, and soundness and determine whether it would make a suitable mount for you. Choose someone who has your best interests at heart. Take this person with you to watch you test ride the horse and, if possible, ask them to ride the horse as well.

2. Don’t come unprepared. Write out a list of questions to ask the seller, including inquiries about the prospective horse’s level of training, previous owners, history of lameness or other health problems, feed schedule, vices or behavioural problems, show record, and any trailering issues. Your experienced horse person should be able to help you come up with other appropriate questions. 

3. Don’t look without knowing what you’re looking for. Outline your “must have” qualities in a horse, based on your riding experience, budget, and goals. Clarifying your expectations will help you eliminate any unsuitable prospects (e.g. horses that are too young and/or green, too hot or flighty, or lacking the necessary conformation and movement to perform at the level you desire).

4. Don’t just ride the prospective horse. Make sure you also watch the horse being caught, tied, groomed, and tacked up, and take note of any bad behaviours, including biting, pawing, or kicking, and stable vices such as cribbing, pacing, or weaving. 

5. Don’t be the first to ride a prospective horse. For safety’s sake, always ask the seller to ride the horse before you mount up. This will alert you to any potential behavioural problems under saddle that might put you at risk.

6. Don’t sacrifice suitability for looks. Beauty can blind you to a prospect’s flaws. Remember your “must haves” and don’t let a pretty face lead you to compromise on the most important characteristics of temperament, conformation, talent, training, and soundness. 

7. Don’t skip the pre-purchase exam. Ownership of a horse that has chronic soundness or other health problems can be costly and emotionally stressful. There are never any guarantees, but a thorough pre-purchase examination by an experienced and reputable veterinarian will help eliminate any prospects with potential problems.

Main Article Photo: Robin Duncan Photography

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