The first steps in purchasing a horse involve deciding what you need the horse for, setting a budget, and finding an experienced mentor. Many people ask, “What is the first thing I should do when buying a horse?” The answer is simple: gain knowledge and find a trusted guide. This horse buying guide will walk you through every stage.
This long journey requires careful planning. Being a first-time horse buyer can feel huge. We will break down the steps to buying a horse into easy parts.
Phase 1: Self-Assessment and Goal Setting
Before you even look at a horse, you must look at yourself. Buying a horse is a major commitment—not just for money, but for time and emotion.
Deciding Your Needs and Wants
What will you use the horse for? This question guides everything else. A horse for trail riding is very different from one for competitive jumping.
- Discipline: Are you thinking about dressage, trail riding, western pleasure, or just having a companion?
- Experience Level: Be honest about your riding skills. A beginner should not buy a spirited young horse needing an expert rider.
- Time Commitment: How many hours a week can you spend riding, grooming, and caring for the horse?
- Living Situation: Where will the horse live? Do you have boarding facilities or acreage?
Setting a Realistic Budget
The cost of a horse is more than just the sale price. You need to factor in ongoing expenses. This is crucial for setting your horse price range expectations.
| Cost Category | Initial Purchase Costs | Ongoing Annual Costs (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Horse Price | Varies widely (see below) | Boarding/Stabling |
| Pre-Purchase Exam (Vetting) | \$300 – \$1,500+ | Feed and Supplements |
| Transport | \$100 – \$1,000+ | Farrier (Hoof Care) |
| Tack (Saddle, Bridle, etc.) | \$500 – \$5,000+ | Routine Veterinary Care (Vaccines, Dental) |
| Initial Supplies (Blankets, Grooming) | \$200 – \$500 | Insurance (Optional but wise) |
Horse Price Range Breakdown
Horse prices change based on age, training, health, and location.
- Companion/Older Horses: \$500 – \$2,000. These often require more specialized care or have limited riding capability.
- Sound, Beginner-Safe Horses: \$3,000 – \$8,000. These are solid horses with basic training.
- Trained Show Horses/Youth Prospects: \$10,000 – \$25,000. These have proven records in specific areas.
- High-Level Sport Horses: \$30,000 and up. These are horses competing successfully at higher levels.
Phase 2: Education and Finding Your Guide
Can I buy a horse without an expert? While you technically can, it is highly advised against for a first-time horse buyer. An experienced person protects you from costly mistakes.
Seeking Mentorship
Find a respected local trainer, instructor, or seasoned horse owner. This person is your advocate throughout the equestrian purchase process. They help you assess a horse’s suitability, not just its looks.
Learning Horse Care Basics
You must know basic husbandry before you buy. This includes feeding schedules, recognizing signs of colic or lameness, and basic grooming. This knowledge helps immensely when vetting a horse.
Researching Breeds and Types
Different breeds have different temperaments and needs.
- Quarter Horses: Known for versatility and calm nature, great for western disciplines and general riding.
- Thoroughbreds: Athletic, often best suited for jumping or dressage after their racing careers. They can be spirited.
- Draft Crosses: Often very sturdy and calm, good for heavier riders or long trail rides.
- Ponies: Excellent for smaller children, but often have big personalities.
Phase 3: The Search for Finding the Right Horse
Now the fun part begins: looking at horses. Remember, you are looking for the right partner, not just a pretty picture.
Where to Look for Horses
You can find horses through many channels. A good horse buying guide always stresses local connections.
- Trainers/Instructors: Often know of horses that are “for sale privately” but not widely advertised.
- Online Listings: Websites like DreamHorse, HorseClicks, and local Facebook groups. Look closely at videos provided.
- Breed Organizations: Good sources if you are focused on a specific breed.
- Auctions: Generally higher risk, not recommended for first-time horse buyers.
Reading Advertisements Critically
Advertisements can be misleading. Look for transparency.
- Red Flags: Vague descriptions, photos that hide the horse’s legs or body, or phrases like “needs an experienced rider” when you are a beginner.
- Good Signs: Clear videos of the horse moving at all gaits, recent photos, and an honest disclosure of any known issues.
Horse Adoption vs Purchase
Consider horse adoption vs purchase. Many rescue organizations have wonderful, well-assessed horses needing homes. Rescues often provide excellent background information on the horse’s known history and behavior. However, vetting requirements might be different.
Phase 4: Initial Viewing and Assessment
When you go to see a potential horse, bring your mentor. Do not rush this stage. This initial viewing helps narrow down your options.
Evaluating Temperament and Handling
Watch how the horse acts when you approach it. Is it calm? Does it seem nervous?
- In-Hand Observation: Does the seller lead the horse easily? Do they pick up its feet without trouble?
- Grooming Test: Ask to groom the horse. Watch for “sour” behavior, like biting or kicking when touched in sensitive areas.
- Tack Up: Observe how it accepts the saddle and bridle.
The Trial Ride
If the initial viewing goes well, you must ride the horse. If you are a novice, your trainer should ride first.
- Watch the Trainer Ride: See how the horse moves at the walk, trot, and canter.
- Your Ride: Keep the ride short at first. Focus on how the horse responds to your aids (seat, leg, hand). Does it stop when you ask? Does it maintain a steady pace?
- Gaits: Check that all three gaits (walk, trot, canter) are smooth and balanced. Look for signs of stiffness or favoring one side.
Phase 5: Comprehensive Evaluation – Vetting a Horse
This is the most critical step in the steps to buying a horse. A pre-purchase examination (PPE) protects your investment. Vetting a horse is not optional; it is essential for a purchasing a horse transaction.
What is a Pre-Purchase Exam (PPE)?
A PPE is a thorough medical check done by an independent veterinarian chosen by you, the buyer. This exam reveals hidden health problems that could become expensive later.
Components of a Standard PPE
The depth of the exam depends on the intended use and the horse price range.
Level 1: Basic Soundness Check (For Companion Horses)
- Physical exam (eyes, heart, lungs, skin).
- Checking teeth.
- Palpation for soreness.
- Flexion tests on all four legs.
Level 2: Standard Performance Exam (For Riding Horses)
This includes everything in Level 1 plus:
- Radiographs (X-rays): Usually taken of the front feet, hocks, and sometimes stifles, depending on age and discipline. These look for arthritis or bone chips.
- Blood Work: Checks for certain diseases and baseline health status.
- Sedated Upper Airway Exam (Scope): Checks for breathing issues, often necessary for performance horses.
Level 3: Advanced Screening (For High-Level Sport Horses)
This includes Level 2 plus: Extensive X-rays (spine, pelvis) and extensive flexion tests performed by the vet.
Crucial Note: Never buy a horse without a PPE. A cheap purchase price can turn into a financial disaster if the horse has a major, undisclosed issue.
Phase 6: Finalizing the Deal
Once the vet gives the green light, you move to the negotiation and transfer phase of the equestrian purchase process.
Negotiation Tactics
The PPE results often dictate the negotiation. If the vet finds minor issues (like mild arthritis in an older horse), you might ask for a price reduction to cover future medication costs.
- Be polite but firm.
- Base your offer on market value and the results of the vetting.
Paperwork and Contracts
Never complete a horse sale with only a handshake. A clear contract protects both buyer and seller.
Key items for the sales contract:
- Identification: Full name and description of the horse (color, markings, microchip/tattoo number).
- Sale Price and Payment Method: Clear terms for payment completion.
- Warranties (or lack thereof): Most sales are “as-is,” but clarity is important. The seller should warrant that they have clear title (meaning they truly own the horse).
- Conditions: Detail what happens if the horse fails the PPE or if transport issues arise.
- Date of Transfer: The moment ownership officially changes hands.
Transferring Ownership
Ensure the following documents are handed over at closing:
- Bill of Sale: Signed by both parties.
- Registration Papers: If the horse is registered (e.g., USEF, breed registry).
- Vaccination and Health Records: The complete history from the previous owner.
- Coggins Test: A recent negative test for Equine Infectious Anemia (required in most states for transport).
Phase 7: Post-Purchase Logistics
Congratulations, you bought a horse! The work is just starting. This is where many a first-time horse buyer runs into trouble.
Transportation
Arrange safe transport. A professional horse hauler is usually best, especially for long distances. Ensure the trailer is appropriate for the horse’s size and temperament.
Quarantine and Acclimation
If possible, keep your new horse separate from other horses for at least two weeks. This quarantine period prevents the spread of any new illnesses to your existing herd or board facility.
Introduce the horse slowly to its new environment, new feed, and new routines. Patience is key for a smooth transition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long should I test ride a horse before buying it?
A: Plan for at least two, preferably three, separate visits. The first visit is for initial observation. The second should include a full ride by you and your trainer. The third visit is usually when the vet comes for the PPE, and you can re-ride the horse after the initial exam.
Q: What is “trial boarding” when buying a horse?
A: Trial boarding is when a seller allows you to keep the horse at your barn (or a neutral facility) for a set period (e.g., one week) for a fee. This lets you see how the horse behaves in your regular routine and environment before the final sale. It is a great option for assessing long-term compatibility.
Q: What if the horse I want is too expensive? Should I try to negotiate a lot?
A: Aggressive negotiation on a fairly priced horse is rarely successful. Instead of lowering the price drastically, focus on getting the seller to include items, like a custom saddle or a year’s worth of supplements, to lower your initial outlay. If the price is truly out of your budget, it is better to walk away and continue your search within the established horse price range.
Q: Should I use a lawyer during the horse buying process?
A: For high-value transactions (over \$15,000), using a lawyer familiar with equine law to review the contract is wise. For standard purchases, a clear, detailed bill of sale reviewed by your mentor or trainer is often sufficient, provided the PPE is thorough.