Considerations for Horse Buyers-Part 3
Installment 3 of this series focuses on what to search for in horse sale ads. Keep in mind, these guidelines are specific to equestrian riding students, and are generally for beginner kids/teens. Everyone is looking for something different when they search ads, so be sure to talk to your trainer or another professional horse person on requirements for your personal search!
If you haven’t read parts 1 and 2 of this series, read those first here (part 1) and here (part 2).
What To Look For When Browsing Horse Ads
Age: Anything under 5 is usually too inexperienced or untrained. Older is better (and safer) for students, especially beginners. Keep in mind, with age may come maintenance, and not all maintenance is equal. If the horse needs more than joint injections and/or supplements to be sound and healthy, you may want to pass. With proper care, horses can live into their late 20’s. If you’re buying an older horse, expect some maintenance and senior care, and be prepared to educate your student about caring for an older horse and about death.
Height: Generally, you’ll want to look for something between 14 and 16 hands. Smaller ponies can be suitable for younger kids or beginners, but keep in mind that they could have a height limit on jumping and your student may outgrow them quickly. Buying a horse that is way too big for your student is called “overmounting” and can be very unsafe.
Gender: Mares tend to be more opinionated than geldings, but it’s better to judge the horse’s individual temperament and training than their gender. Stallions are not appropriate for beginner students and are not allowed at some facilities or shows.
Breed: Gaited breeds are generally not appropriate for eventing. Common gaited breeds include Tennessee Walking Horse (TWH), Missouri Fox Trotter (MFT), Saddlebred, and Standardbred. Although every breed has its exceptions, “hot” blooded horses such as Arabians and Morgans are usually not suitable for children. Thoroughbreds (especially if they’re young) also fall into this category, so be cautious with them for beginners. The best breeds for kids are pony crosses, Quarter Horses (AQHA), paint, connemaras, POAs, etc.
Temperament: Terms that are red flags when searching ads for a kids horse include “green”, “spooky”, “high-spirited”, “high energy”, “needs a tune up”, “needs more training”, “experienced rider only”. Terms to look for include “bomb-proof”, “kick ride”, “experienced”, “husband-safe”, and “lazy”. Yes, lazy is better!
Training: It is usually fairly easy to teach a horse to jump if they have a good attitude and enough athleticism. That said, previous jump training is very valuable. The minimum training that the horse should have is the ability to walk, trot, and canter on both leads quietly and obediently. Also be aware that horses act differently at new places. The horse should be manageable at a brand new place and be able to be handled by your student in all situations.
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