Selecting Your Horse

Say Neigh If You Don’t Want It: Tips on Selecting a Horse

A horse is a beautiful animal that can rival dogs which is arguably the most popular choice for pet in terms of companionship and value in various aspects in life. If you wish to purchase a horse, here’s what you should know and do. Whereas it’s rarely possible for you to regret the decision of purchasing a horse, you may however regret your choice of horse if you’re not careful.

Tips on Selecting the Ideal Horse
When selecting a horse, you need to ask yourself the following questions in order to arrive at the ideal choice.

WHY ARE YOU BUYING A HORSE?

This question tackles the appropriate breed or type of horse you should select. Are you interested in owning a horse for recreational purposes? Are you interested in competing? Do you wish to engage in the business of breeding horses? Are you going to use a horse as an all-around work animal on your farm or ranch?

WHO IS GOING TO USE THE HORSE?

This mostly concerns individuals who are simply riding enthusiasts and wish to own a horse they can ride whenever they wish. If you are the only one who’s going to use the horse then you have your preferences alone to consider. If, however, you’re purchasing a horse that will be of use to the whole family then you need to take into account the riding level, size, and weight of all possible riders. You need to select a horse that can easily accommodate the biggest rider among you but will not be inclined to throw off an inexperienced rider.

HOW OLD SHOULD A HORSE BE UPON PURCHASE?

A slightly order horse may be house-broken already but this also means that it has also had the time to get used to certain routines. A slightly older horse for instance may already be used to being able to graze free in a large area and being handled by competent riders. If you only have a small stable and little riding skills to be speak of, such a horse is obviously not the ideal choice for you.

A foal, on the other hand, may not have any such considerations but it will, however, require efficient care and professional training from its owner. As the foal’s owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that it’s comfortable with its quarters, watered and fed regularly, and with a gentle disposition that will allow people to ride it safely.

WHAT ABOUT GENDER?

Gender is mostly a concern of would-be horse breeders. Owning a mare will allow you greater rights in all future offspring. Having a stud is mostly suitable for experienced riders. Geldings on the other hand are ideal for riders with skills at the beginner level.

DO YOU HAVE ANY COLOR PREFERENCES?

The skin color of horses is generally any of the three: black, brown, or white. Skin color is only a factor if you're particularly concerned with aesthetics.

HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO SPEND?

Expect to spend a considerable amount of money whether you wish to purchase a horse for riding or working purposes. Make sure that you consider the costs of feeding, caring and grooming as well. If you don’t have sufficient budget and space at home to build a stable for your horse, you will have no choice but use the services of a boarding stable.

A Brief Guide to Different Breeds of Horses

ARABIAN One of the oldest and arguably the most beautiful breed in the world, Arabian horses are primarily bred by the Bedouins, a roaming Arab tribe, and mainly used for competitive and recreational riding. Expect to pay expensively if you wish to acquire an Arabian horse. This particular breed led to the development of Thoroughbreds.

QUARTER HORSE The United States is the proud and original breeder of quarter horses, and they can be used for riding, racing, and work purposes. Most of the photos you’ll see around you featuring cowboys are mounted on quarter horses.

ANDALUSIAN Also referred to as the Spanish horse, the Andalusian breed originates from the Iberian Peninsula and has a considerable influence over almost all other horse breeds except for the .

BELGIAN HEAVY DRAFT HORSE This breed is one of the most popular choices for working horses.

MUSTANG OR BRONCO These horses are also known as Indian ponies. They are essentially intelligent and capable of enduring long hours of work.

As a last note, please don’t forget to test out any horse you have your eye on before closing the transaction. Ride on!