Whether you intend to ride in an arena, on the trails or participate in shows, you want to buy a horse that will suit your temperament, riding abilities and riding goals for many years – perhaps even a lifetime.

You want to make sure you buy the horse that is right for you and ensure you are the right person for the horse.

Buying the wrong horse can be devastating – emotionally, financially and even physically.

Here are 3 of the biggest mistakes new horse buyers make and what you can do instead.

Mistake #1 – Buying Based on Emotions.

​With our emotional connection to these beautiful and sensitive animals it`s easy to let our hearts rule our heads. Your buying decision requires careful thought and planning.

You may have dreams of riding off into the sunset or winning the shiny trophy with your trusty equine partner.

You might be attracted to the spirit of the young Thoroughbred (The Black Stallion) or Mustang (Spirit) or the flair of the Gypsy Vanner.

But if your horse’s temperament or training doesn’t match your riding skills, your dreams will become a night mare.

What to do instead: 

Be very honest about your riding skills, horse knowledge and how often you will be able to ride. Then research different breeds and identify the temperament, size, conformation and personality that best suits you, your skills and your riding goals.

Even if he’s not flashy or pretty, an older, slower horse makes a more appropriate partner for a green rider (young or old) or only has time to ride on week-ends. (Don’t worry, you’ll soon fall in love with him and think he is the most beautiful horse on the planet.)

Mistake #2 – Buying based on ‘Potential” 

If the seller says that the horse has the 'potential to…' that means you`ll have to put time and training into him.

Since, most amateur riders don’t have the skills or the time necessary to train a horse to his full potential, they need to hire a professional trainer. That adds up to a huge financial cost and a lot of time before you can enjoy riding your own horse.

What to do instead: 

​Look for a horse that already does what you want to do. Then, you can start doing what it is you want to do with your horse right away instead of standing at the side of the ring being the proud owner.

Mistake #3 – Not hiring an Expert as an adviser. 

​You might think you’ll be saving some money by going out on your own to buy a horse. But it may cost you much more in the long run.

If you don’t have an experienced eye, you’ll likely miss or dismiss potential behavioural or physical issues that could become bigger problems down the road.

While there are many good, reputable people selling horses, unfortunately some horse sellers – like some used car salesman – are unscrupulous people who downplay (or disguise) flaws, enhance attributes and only want to get your money. But how do you know the difference?

What to do instead: 

Hire an expert as your adviser. Having a professional opinion from a person with no emotional or financial attachment to your potential purchase is invaluable.

An expert can be your coach, trainer or another experienced horse person. Make sure that your Expert is knowledgeable about horses as well as the discipline you want to ride in.

He or she should also be aware of your goals, abilities and riding and horsemanship skills.

Bottom Line?

Buying the right horse for you is essential for ensuring a happy future for both you and your horse.