Buying a horse is a huge investment. For some it may be the culmination of a dream come true, while for others horse ownership is born from necessity. Either way, knowledge is key when deciding to buy a horse. There are a great many factors to consider- breed, age, housing, feed and medical expenses and the like. For that reason, it is important to approach horse buying with a clear understanding of both the buying and owning process. These guidelines will help you understand the process and responsibilities involved in horse ownership and help you make the best decision for you and your new horse.

1.Motivation- Why are you buying a horse? Are you a recreational rider, a rancher, or do you plan on competing in either shows or races? Answer these questions first so you will know where to begin your search. Competitive horses will typically come from licensed breeders, while recreational and work horses can be found in classifieds ads and at auctions.

2.Skills- How experienced are you as a horse rider? This is very important because your experience will factor into the overall cost of ownership. If you have limited experience, you will need to invest in riding lessons and will want to consider purchasing a horse that has already been well trained to the saddle. You may even need to consider hiring a horse trainer for your new horse.

3.Budget- Cost of ownership will be a deciding factor. How much are you willing to spend? A well trained horse can cost several thousands of dollars. You will also need to consider how you will house the horse. Boarding will be a major expense and can cost thousands of pounds a year. Vet bills, farrier fees and miscellaneous tack expenses can easily add another couple of thousand a year to your expenses.

4.Breed Knowledge- Learn about the various breeds of horses: what are their strong points, their behavioral habits and what types of activities they are best suited for. Smaller breeds like Paints and Arabians are better suited to young and smaller riders, while Quarters and Stallions may work better for more athletic riders. Read up on the different breeds and have as much knowledge as possible before buying.

5.Expert Advice- Talk to a horse expert who can evaluate your needs and help match you with a suitable horse. Experts can also explain more of the finer details of owning a particular breed of horse.

6.Start Looking- Browse classified ads in papers and on the internet at websites like HorseDeals.co.uk . Also consider attending horse shows and auctions. Talk with a local equine vet or stable master who may know of horses for sale. Feed and tack store bulletin boards are also a great place to find horses for sale.

7.Selection- Choose two or three horses to consider. Have the primary rider test each horse over a period of a few days under different circumstances. Spend some time with each horse to determine how it will interact with you. Consider the horse’s temperament and match it with the rider’s skill set. A young or inexperienced rider will not be a good fit for an aggressive or skittish horse.

8.References- Consider the reputability of the current owner. Get references from other buyers. You do not want to purchase a horse from an abusive or neglectful owner.

9.Evaluate- Have each horse you are considering evaluated by a veterinarian. Look for signs the horses may be in poor health- cracked hooves, runny nose, runny eyes, and lethargy. A full health check including lab tests can reveal underlying health conditions.

10.Make Arrangements - Know where you will house your horse and make arrangements for transportation. If you are boarding your horse, understand the facility’s policies. Some boarders require owners to muck stalls, provide feed and exercise, while others are all inclusive.