Bringing home your first horse is an incredibly exciting experience, but it’s crucial to approach the decision with a clear head and thorough research. Impulse buying can lead to disappointment, and for a novice owner, selecting the right horse is paramount to building a successful and enjoyable partnership. This guide provides essential pointers to help you avoid common pitfalls and find a equine companion that will help you progress.
A horse’s suitability for a first-time owner hinges on its temperament, quality, and experience. While it’s challenging to define a “perfect” first horse, understanding what to look for and, perhaps more importantly, what to avoid, can significantly increase your chances of success. Remember, some individuals form incredible bonds with horses that others might overlook.
When searching for your first horse, pay close attention to how the horse is described in advertisements. Terms like “green” often indicate a lack of experience and require an owner who is confident in their own riding abilities and knowledgeable about equine education. Young horses, while full of potential, can be unpredictable. A sensible, sounder older horse, often referred to as a “schoolmaster,” is generally a safer and more beneficial choice for a novice. These horses have years of experience, can offer invaluable insight into their history and behavior in various situations (shows, traffic, around other animals), and are more likely to look after their rider. Aim for horses aged five years and above.
Understanding Horse Size and Its Importance
The saying “bigger is not always better” holds true when choosing a horse. The size difference between a 14.2hh pony and a 17hh horse doesn’t necessarily dictate their capabilities. You can still successfully navigate a 1.0m show jumping track on a pony. The most important factor is choosing a horse you feel confident and comfortable riding, regardless of its stature.
Ground Manners: The Key to a Successful Partnership
You’ll spend more time handling your horse from the ground than you will riding it, making excellent ground manners absolutely essential, especially with larger animals. A horse that is friendly, affectionate, respects your personal space, and shows enthusiasm when you approach is far more rewarding than one that is difficult to catch or exhibits biting behaviors. During viewings, request some alone time with the horse to observe its behavior when interacting with you one-on-one.
Breed Considerations for Novice Riders
Horses described as ‘hot-blooded’ or having ‘a lot of blood’ should generally be avoided by novice riders. Breeds like Arabians and Thoroughbreds are often known for their flighty nature and finer builds, requiring more experienced handling and management than a first-time owner might be able to provide. Similarly, Warmbloods or horses bred primarily for the show ring might prove too much for a novice buyer. “Cob” type horses are often excellent all-rounders, particularly suited for novice owners and riders. Cross-bred horses with heavier breeds such as Shire, Clydesdale, Suffolk Punch, or Irish Draught often possess a more even temperament. However, remember that each horse is an individual, and temperament can be difficult to predict solely based on breed.
The horse you learned to ride on is likely a good prototype for the type of horse you should be seeking. You’ve developed a riding style and sensitivity for that particular breed or type, which will enable you to progress. It’s highly advisable to discuss potential horse types with your riding instructor, who can offer expert guidance on what might best suit your current capabilities and ensure you feel comfortable and safe, especially if you plan to ride independently.
Assessing Temperament and Living Conditions
Before viewing a horse, consider its current living situation and compare it to where you plan to keep it. A drastic change in environment can be challenging for any horse. When you visit, actively participate in every step of handling the horse yourself: run your hands over it, tack it up, and catch it from the field. This allows you to assess its true behavior without potential intervention from the current owner.
Asking the Right Questions and Trusting Your Instincts
During a viewing, if you find yourself making excuses for the horse’s behavior or harboring doubts, it’s likely not the right match. Questions like “Could I improve his condition with more feed?” or “Can I stop her from napping?” signal potential issues. If you have serious doubts, it’s best to walk away. Sometimes, gathering information from the local equestrian community – tack shops or riding clubs – can provide valuable insights into a horse’s temperament and history, potentially saving you from an unsuitable purchase.
Financial and Time Commitments
The initial purchase price of a horse is often just the beginning. Long-term financial commitments include veterinary bills, feed, bedding, livery, tack, rugs, and show fees. Insurance is also a critical consideration. Research policies carefully, understanding that pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered. Factor in the time commitment required for daily care, such as mucking out, feeding, and attending farrier appointments. Alternatively, consider the cost of full or part-time livery if your time is limited.
The Importance of Vetting and Passport Checks
If you find a horse that meets your criteria, a pre-purchase examination (PPE) by a veterinarian is strongly advised. A thorough examination can reveal subtle issues like pelvic asymmetry or minor soreness that could lead to lameness later on. A five-stage PPE is often required for insurance purposes and provides a clear understanding of the horse’s limitations and potential future problems. The vet’s report will outline the horse’s strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to make an informed purchasing decision.
You can find further information on veterinary examinations for prospective purchasers in the BEVA/RCVS ‘Guidance Notes on the Examination of a Horse on Behalf of a Prospective Purchaser’.
Finally, always conduct a passport check to ensure the horse and its passport match. The passport provides details on age, breeding, previous owners, and vaccination history. Reconfirm any concerns about multiple owners, vaccinations, reasons for sale, or any history of lameness, illness, or injury at this final stage.
Ultimately, the right horse will make you want to ride it. If you hesitate to get on, it might be the wrong horse for you.
