Advice on what to look for in potential horse

[charlieblitz]

Hello,

I am currently considering buying myself a horse, I'm not the most experienced rider and would be looking for something quite safe and calm, but when I improve I hope to do cross country so I'd like to find something fun and forward going but not too energetic or difficult.

I am about 5 foot 7 and about 110 pounds if that helps with any certain breeds etc.

I am currently loaning a horse, and my mum has a cob mare who I help look after so I have experience in the care of horses, it's just my riding which needs improvement

I obviously know that each horse is different, and the breed isn't always the indicator of whether they'll be fizzy or docile but I am just looking for general advice.

Thank you

 

[oldie48]

Be guided by your mother, if she is experienced and/or an experienced instructor who knows the level of your riding. Also take into account how much you can afford to spend on training. If you don't have very experienced help and lots of money for lessons I'd go for an older horse who can teach you the ropes. I also think it's false economy to buy a cheap horse if it's cheap for a reason (and it usually is) as it costs just as much, if not more to keep a "bad" horse as a "good" one. I hope you find something suitable. Also, unfortunately some people aren't very honest when it comes to selling horses so you need to be very wary!

 

[littleshetland]

I'm sure you'll get lots and lots of sound advice re vetting etc etc. I'll skip through all that and say don't be swayed by good looks and promises of 'huge potential' - basically its down to soundness and temperament .

good luck!