Buying the Right Horse for Competition

The first step in competing as an equestrian is purchasing a horse. But when it comes to competition, you want to make sure that the horse you buy is up to the challenge. A strong horse makes for a strong and successful competitor. Here are seven ways to tell if the horse you are considering is the right horse for the job. 

1. A Match for Your Riding Ability

A successful horse and rider partnership hinges on a horse’s ability to match your experience and ability level as a rider and handler. If you’re a beginner, do not choose a horse that is young and inexperienced. A horse that is older and mature will be a better fit and can help build your confidence as a rider.

2. Riding Goals

Choose a horse that matches the type of competition you want to participate in. Don’t select a horse that’s meant for trail riding when you want to compete in barrel racing. Before you purchase a horse, make sure that the horse will be able to match whatever your riding goals are.

3. Energy Levels

If you want to compete, you will want your horse to keep up with your riding schedule. When you find a horse you are interested in, ask the owner what their riding schedule currently looks like. The horse’s schedule may differ what you need out of him so if so, proceed with caution.

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4. Consistent Behavior

To get an accurate feel for what the horse’s behavior is, take the time to visit and ride the horse on multiple occasions. If you plan on showing the horse, ask the owner if you can ride the horse around at a local schooling show so that you can see how the horse may react in that environment. Consider if the horse’s behavior remains consist and whether it matches your needs.

5. Willingness to Learn

Try some of your training methods on the horse over your multiple visits to see how the horse responds. If the horse is willingly responding to what you are asking for and seems to be improving over time, then it is a good sign that the horse is a strong learner.

6. Lope

Loping the horse before you purchase is important because it can give you a measure of the horse’s overall training, willingness, and temperament. If the horse lopes willingly and quietly on the correct lead, then this is a good sign that you will be in control when riding the horse.

7. Healthy and Sound Horse

The most important factor when buying a horse that you plan on competing with is making sure that the horse is healthy. You should always have a veterinarian examine a horse before you purchase it. Talk with the vet about what your intended goals are for the horse and the vet should be able to tell you if the horse will be able to live up to those goals.