Picking the Right Horse

As riders grow, they will need a horse that will match that skill and help their rider achieve their goals. Beginner riders learn from older horses because the horses’ lower energy and fading athleticism will be manageable from riders learning the basics. The more experienced the rider, the younger the horse since as riders become more advanced in their discipline, they will require a young horse with several athletic years ahead of them.
When picking the right horse, riders should know the best breeds for their discipline and the best age and level of experience/training for their current capabilities as well as their goals in the saddle.

It is also very important to involve your trainer in the search for your horse because your trainer should know which horses you handle the best: horses with short or long strides, horses that need a kick or are easy to get going, etc.
In some disciplines, looks can be a key factor. For example, hunter jumper events are largely judged on the horse’s effortlessness soring over jumps. Judges look for beautiful horses with smooth movements. Contrary, show jumping horses just need to be fast. Often, riders that do both have two different horses.

The thing that really sets horse’s apart and can ultimately seal the deal on a new horse is the horse’s character. Like humans, dogs, cats, and other animals, every horse has a unique personality and character traits that set them apart. Great qualities in horses include honesty, bravery, affectionate, and compliance. However, as horse lovers, we must remember that their attitude is a product of their environment. In searching for a horse, riders should keep in mind that they can positively influence their horse and bring out the best in them by developing a relationship and trust.

Lastly, do research to develop an understanding of what your price point should be for your horse based on the discipline you want to pursue or general horse goals.