Look for a horse that matches your experience and goals, with a good temperament, sound movement and honest history. See it more than once, try it in different situations, and always get a pre-purchase vet examination.
Match the horse to you
The most important thing is suitability. A green rider needs a calm, experienced horse, not a talented but sharp youngster. Be honest about your experience, time and goals, and choose a horse you can enjoy safely rather than one that flatters your ambitions.
Prioritise temperament
Temperament is hard to change and matters more than looks or breeding for most owners. Watch how the horse behaves being caught, handled, tacked up and ridden, and how it reacts to everyday things. A kind, sensible horse is worth far more than a flashy, difficult one.
Assess soundness and movement
Watch the horse walk and trot up in hand on a hard surface, looking for even, sound movement, and see it ridden in the tasks you want it for. Ask about its history, any past injuries or vices, and why it is for sale, and be wary of vague or evasive answers.
See it more than once
Visit at least twice, ideally at different times, and try to catch and handle the horse yourself. A horse presented perfectly warmed up and ready may behave differently caught from the field cold. Take an experienced friend or instructor for a second opinion.
Always get a vetting
A pre-purchase examination by a vet, independent of the seller, is the best money you can spend. It checks soundness, health and any issues that affect the horse’s suitability for your intended use. Combined with a stocked first aid kit and the right basics ready at home, it sets you up for a good start.
