Top 10 Tips for Buying Your First Horse By the owners of Lakeside stables boarding barn in paola kanas

Buying your first horse is an exciting milestone, but it's also one of the most important decisions you'll make as an equestrian. A horse is a long-term commitment that requires careful consideration, preparation, and knowledge. Here at Lakeside Stables, we've helped many first-time horse owners navigate this journey, and we're sharing our top ten tips to help you make the best choice for your situation.

At Lakeside Stables our riding students as us thhis question all the time, so why not just wrote about it. We assist our students in buying a new horse. From finding the horse, to going go and look at it and even pick it up.

1. Honestly Assess Your Riding Experience and Goals

Before you start shopping, take a hard look at your riding abilities and what you want to achieve. Are you a beginner who needs a calm, well-trained horse? An intermediate rider looking to advance your skills? Your horse should match your current ability level, not where you hope to be someday. A green rider on a green horse is a recipe for problems.

2. Establish a Realistic Budget

Horse ownership costs extend far beyond the purchase price. Factor in monthly boarding fees, feed, veterinary care, farrier services, equipment, and unexpected medical expenses. A good rule of thumb is to budget at least $3,000-$5,000 annually for basic care, not including the purchase price.

Remember, a less expensive horse isn't always the better deal if it comes with health or behavioral issues.

3. Choose the Right Age and Training Level

For first-time owners, consider a horse between 8-15 years old with solid training and a calm temperament. Younger horses require more experienced handling, while very senior horses may have more health issues. A well-trained horse in this age range typically has enough experience to be reliable while still having many good years ahead.

4. Don't Shop Alone

Bring an experienced horse person with you when you look at horses. This could be your trainer, an experienced friend, or a professional you hire specifically for this purpose. They can spot potential issues you might miss and ask important questions you might not think of.

5. Always Arrange a Pre-Purchase Veterinary Exam

Never skip the vet check, even if the horse seems perfect. A pre-purchase exam can reveal underlying health issues that aren't immediately apparent. This examination should include a basic health check, lameness evaluation, and may include X-rays depending on the horse's intended use and value.

6. Test Ride Multiple Times and in Different Situations

One ride doesn't tell the whole story. If possible, ride the horse several times in different conditions – in the arena, on trails, alone, and with other horses. See how the horse behaves when being tacked up, loaded in a trailer, and handled by strangers. This gives you a better picture of the horse's true temperament.

7. Consider the Horse's Breeding and Conformation

While a horse doesn't need to be perfect, significant conformation flaws can lead to soundness issues down the road. Research the horse's breeding if available, and consider whether the horse's build suits your intended activities. A horse built for western pleasure may not be the best choice for jumping, and vice versa.

8. Verify Health and Vaccination Records

Ask for complete health records, including vaccination history, deworming schedules, and any previous injuries or illnesses. A horse with well-documented care is typically a better investment than one with an unknown history. Make sure vaccinations are current and that the horse has been on a regular deworming program.

9. Understand the Horse's Training and Background

Ask detailed questions about the horse's training, previous owners, and any behavioral issues. How has the horse been ridden? What disciplines has it been trained in? Has it had any behavioral problems or bad experiences? Understanding the horse's background helps you make an informed decision and plan for any needed retraining.

10. Trust Your Instincts but Stay Practical

While it's important to connect with your horse, don't let emotions override practical considerations. If a horse doesn't feel right during your trial rides, trust that instinct. Similarly, if a horse has significant issues that don't align with your experience level, it's better to keep looking than to take on more than you can handle.

Final Thoughts

Remember, the perfect horse for you is one that matches your current abilities, fits your budget, and helps you achieve your riding goals safely and enjoyably. Take your time, don't rush the process, and don't be afraid to walk away if something doesn't feel right. The right horse is worth waiting for.

At Lakeside Stables, we're always happy to help new horse owners transition into horse ownership. Our lesson program can help you continue developing your skills, and our boarding facility provides a supportive environment for you and your new equine partner to grow together. Even if you haul in to our lesson program.

The journey of horse ownership is incredibly rewarding, and finding the right horse is the first step toward years of partnership and enjoyment. Take these tips to heart, stay patient during your search, and soon you'll find the perfect equine companion for your journey ahead.