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It can be really difficult to find and select the right one when looking for a new horse. Chemistry, temperament, size, gait, pedigree, and price can be some of the factors you need to consider before the hunt begins. The horse market is huge, and if you hope to find the right new best friend, it's an advantage if you can narrow down your search as much as possible.
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Chemistry cannot be bought for money. But what does it actually mean to have "chemistry" with a horse? It may seem like a fluffy and intangible word, but fortunately, it's not that complicated. According to the dictionary, "chemistry" is "the personal relationship between two people," which of course can also be understood as the relationship between horse and owner. In short, it's a feeling that you and the horse "speak the same language" – that you are on the "same wavelength" with each other.
Having chemistry with a horse doesn't mean you should be able to ride it as if you've done nothing else the first time you get on. Not at all. You should just go for a feeling that the horse understands your signals, and that its level of sensitivity – or lack thereof – suits you. It's no use buying a horse that's sensitive in the mouth and touchy to the leg if you're a rider who goes a bit hard. If, for example, you've been used to riding robust horses, then you might consider whether a purebred full- or warmblood horse is the best choice for you. The same applies vice versa. It's a pity to spend a lot of money on a riding horse if there's no chemistry when you sit in the saddle.
It's also important to have the basis for building a good relationship with a new horse from the ground. If you're looking at many horses, you'll likely find a seller offering to saddle up the horse for you. But that's a bad idea. You'll spend most of your time with your future best friend in the stable, on the paddock, and in the box, so it's important to get to know the horse there too. It would be a shame to end up with a nice, newly purchased riding horse that's impossible to handle in the stable aisle – or has "issues" you weren't made aware of before buying. Anything from girth cramps to bad habits in the box or paddock can be discovered if you insist on bringing it in, grooming it, and saddling it up yourself.
Closely linked to the chemistry between you and the horse is its temperament. Some horses are easy to fire up but hard to "turn off," while others seem not to fire up at all. And then there are those in between. Which temperament you prefer, of course, depends entirely on your own temperament, but it also depends on what you want to use the horse for. If you dream of doing more jumping, it won't do with a horse that's heavy in the back. If you're a dressage rider, it's good with a horse that can both fire up and turn off. And if you like a ride in the forest, it might not be so smart to buy a warmblood horse bred for track work. Not to say it can't be done. But the work to get the horse to do what you want can be a big challenge if you don't consider its temperament before you buy it.
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Normally, the rider's own height is used as a benchmark for how big a horse they need. And it's certainly not a bad guideline. Just remember that the rider's weight and the horse's build also play a role. A rider will naturally be able to influence a horse best that is neither too big nor small, but there are also breeds that can carry a tall rider without being particularly large. For example, an Icelandic horse or heavy breeds like Fjord horses and Tinkers can carry more than a lighter type of horse of the same size.
It's important to be honest with yourself when choosing the breed and size of your future horse. All things being equal, it will result in fewer challenges and worries in the long run, and you will be happier with your choice.
Particularly for dressage and show jumping riders, the quality of a horse's gait is a significant consideration. But what exactly constitutes a 'good' gait? For the dressage rider, it might be strong hindquarters and a smooth, natural stride in all three gaits. For the trail rider, a comfortable walk, trot, and canter may be most important. Others might have different preferences. In summary, it's wise to consider how much importance you place on the horse's gait. This can help guide you towards the type of horse that is best suited for your needs.
Whether or not a horse has a pedigree can significantly impact its price. The question is whether you're willing to pay extra for it. A pedigree might be important for a rider planning to sell the horse in the future or use it for breeding. Some might find reassurance in knowing the horse’s lineage, perceiving it as a 'guarantee' of potential success in equestrian sports – even though there are never any certainties. If you are indifferent about whether the horse is purebred or from a specific lineage, you can save a considerable amount of money by opting for one without such papers.
Finally, price is a critical factor to consider, and this doesn't just refer to the purchase price. It's equally important to budget for necessary equipment and, especially, the saddle that the horse needs. If a saddle is included in the purchase, it's wise to have it checked by a saddle maker. Allocating funds for training during the initial period can also be a wise investment. This ensures that you start off on the right foot with your new horse and companion. The major ongoing expense will be the daily upkeep of the horse, including monthly costs for stabling, feed, bedding, farrier and veterinary visits. Once you have a plan for how much you'll spend on equipment and the monthly costs of keeping the horse, you can start to form a realistic idea of what you can afford to spend on the purchase.
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If you thoroughly consider everything and maybe especially focus on the points we have mentioned here, you will likely find a horse that you will be truly happy with! It can require a lot of patience, as the perfect horse may not be on the market right when you decide to start looking. Patience can ultimately be what leads you to the right horse. If you bring another horse-knowledgeable person with you for support while you're searching, you're also more likely to avoid making a rushed decision. Equip yourself with a knowledgeable companion, a good dose of patience, and thoughtful deliberation, and success is sure to follow!
