Dogwood's guide to horses for sale

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So you have seen your dream horse for sale in Dogwood's classifieds but what do you do next? Whether you buy a horse online, at auction, from a dealer or a friend it is a big decision and there are many things that you must consider. Dogwood has put together this comprehensive checklist to make sure that you have everything covered before buy a horse:

Your circumstances

Are you ready for a horse? Do you have enough time, money and space to care for a horse?

Money - the initial cost of a horse is usually expensive but you will also have shelter, bedding, hay, food, vets fees, horse tack, a saddle, equestrian clothing, and many other costs to pay for

Time - it is important that you spend quality time with your horse to build and maintain your relationship. You will need to make time to feed, groom and muck out your horse on a daily basis

Space - you may have noticed that horses are not small creatures so you either need to buy or hire a field for your horse to graze and exercise in as well as a horse stable for it to sleep in

Company - horses are very sociable creatures that love to be around other horses. If you only intend to buy one horse make sure you stable it or place it in a field with other horses

The horse's purpose

Do you want a horse for weekend hacks or eventing at horse shows? Do you want a horse for breeding?

Age - do not buy a young horse for horse riding unless you are experienced with plenty of time to spend training. A horse over 5 years is likely to be easier to handle and more forgiving of your mistakes

Breeding - obviously a younger horse would be more suitable and a professional evaluation of the horse's breeding potential is a must. Find out as much as you can about that particular breed of horse before buying. For more information visit horse and pony breeds

Size - if you want your horse for riding make sure that it is suitable for your height, weight and level of riding experience

The horse's physical condition

It is well worth getting a pre-purchase examination carried out by an equine veterinarian.

Physical examination - horse tack should be removed and the eyes mouth and teeth inspected. The horse's head, body and limbs, particularly the legs are checked for bumps and swelling

Blood sampling - these can reveal diseases and deficiencies and stored for up to 6 months

X-rays - these can reveal any breakages, fractures and internal problems

Upper respiratory tract endoscopy - these can reveal other abnormalities

The horse's temperament and behaviour

Make sure that you can understand and control the horse and see yourself building a lasting bond with the horse. Here are some tests that you can do:

How does the horse behave going in and out of the stable?

How does the horse behave getting in and out of a horse box?

How calm is the horse when being tacked up?

Does the horse mind being groomed?

Does the horse mind having its feet picked up and new shoes fitted?

Test ride

A test ride is a must to find out how well the horse performs and behaves

Safety first - before attempting to ride the horse yourself ask the seller or someone from their stables to ride it first so you can observe

Scenarios - test the horse in a range of environments including out on the road to see how it responds to traffic. Try riding alone and with company and see how it reacts.

So, next time those magic words 'horse for sale' catch your eye use Dogwood's guide to buying horses before making a final purchase decision.

To view a selection of fine horses for sale visit our classified section.

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