Which Horse is Best For Me?

Which horse should I get? This question has plagued prospective horse buyers for decades. What will be best for me and my family? There are a many factors to consider, but here are my top7 things. These are the ones that I consider the most important.

1. How much exercise will the horse be getting? Just like dogs, different horse breed will have high or lower activity levels. If you will only have time to ride a few times a week, do not buy a Thoroughbred. Instead get a small pony such a Shetland or a Welsh. 2. Size of the horse. Size is a big issue. Although you may like the look of the Shire horses (I know I do :D) do not get one if you are only 5 feet tall. And in the same token, don’t buy a pony if you are 6 feet. You should be able to mount the horse without assistance or a mounting block. If you have some difficulty reaching the stirrup that is OK, just not too difficult.

3. What the breed is for. If you soon to be beloved companion is just for a friendship and no serious training or showing, you do not need to spend excessive money on getting a show horse or a draft horse. 4. Temperament. Before you buy the horse, get to know it a bit. Enter the stall, check his stall for any signs of cribbing or kicking, check for head shyness, dishing or any other hoof/leg problems. Also take him out for a ride. Saddle the horse yourself; do NOT let the seller do it for you. You can pick out any major problems by doing it yourself, while they seller may try to hide them to encourage a sale.

5. History. Always make a through check on the horse’s history. Medical and behavioral. Check out his dam and sire as well, although this is not necessary unless you are buying a stud. 6. Make sure you two get along well. Horses are just like people. Sometime they don’t like a certain person, and there is no telling why, just a personality or spirit clash. 7. Be patient. The perfect horse may not be at the first stable you go to. You may have to look for months to find you horse-soul mate.