You’re thinking about buying a horse, but where do you start? Horses for sale are a big decision, and many people don’t know what to look for. I’ve been horse shopping before, and here are my tips for buying a horse, whether it’s your first time or not.
The thought of buying a horse evokes a wide range of emotions. Some people dream about it often, others go through the motions of finding a suitable horse every year yet never take the plunge, and then there are people like me who dread the idea but just can’t give up on it either.
So you’re looking to buy a horse? Maybe you already own a horse but are thinking of buying another one. Buying a horse is not as easy as it seems; there is a lot to consider.
Know the difference between breeds
Horses come in two varieties: “hot bloods” and “cold bloods.” Hot-blooded horses are athletic, energetic, and fun to ride. They love to race and jump, but they’re also more active than cold-blooded horses and more prone to injury. Examples include Thoroughbreds and Arabians.
Cold-blooded horses are generally easygoing and tolerant of riders who aren’t experienced or confident in their abilities. They’re also known for their versatility, as they’re often trained for all kinds of riding disciplines, from jumping to dressage, because they have a steady temperament that makes them easy for beginners to handle.
Examples include Quarter Horses, Morgans, and Tennessee Walkers!
Have a budget in mind before you start looking
You don’t want to get caught up in all the excitement of looking at horses and then find yourself falling in love with a horse that’s way above your price range. Make sure your potential purchase is sound and healthy.
Your veterinarian will be able to help with this. Buying horses for sale in Sydney can be an exciting and rewarding experience. But it also can be complicated and stressful if you don’t know the budget.
Know your needs and goals for a horse
Make sure you know your needs and goals for a horse before you head to the stable. If you want an experienced show horse, then don’t go looking at young horses for sale that has been trained as beginner mounts. If you want a trail partner or family riding a horse, then don’t buy a flashy show jumper or racehorse.