what to look for when buying a horse?

Question

I am looking at horses today and my trainer couldnt come. What should i look for? how do you tell if the horse is sound and healthy? Once i find a horse i will do a pre purchase but i want to know if he horse is sound before hand. Any suggestionss? Thanks!

im looking at a couple tbs and quarter horses.

Answer 1

I would hope you are going to be riding the horses. That could help let you know if there are any lameness problems. Also feel down each leg. If the horse reacts, there could be a problem. If you find a horse you really like, ask if you can have your vet come out and check the horse over. A good owner will agree to it, a sketchy one will try to talk you out of it. I would always suggest getting a horse vet checked anyway. Make sure the horse is up to date on all vaccinations and coggins.

Answer 2

- First let the owner tell u a little about the horse watch her handle it

- Next check an feel all the legs hock etc

- Check teeth

- have a look around for lumps and bumps you can tell when something isn't right

- ask lots of questions!.

-ask the owner to the trot the horse up, so u can see its leg movement this will show you if the horse is sound or not.

- Also feeling the hooves for heat



if you are unsure do not buy the horse

i myself would never buy a horse without having it vet checked x

Answer 3

You should look for conformation, movement, and most of all, temperament. A sweet and willing horse is a winning horse.



Watch how the horse moves very closely, look for an even rhythm. Look at how each leg bends, then extends. And also watch the head and see how they carry it, when the neck and head are held low and bob a little at the trot that shows pain in the hind legs, if they hold it up and bob that's pain in the fore legs.



Be sure you help tack the horse up, and pick out it's hooves, looks for anything odd. If the horse is reluctant to pick up a hoof, it can be a sign that the opposite one is hurting them.



Also you should read up about horse health and conformation, just google horse conformation faults.

Answer 4

Make sure it doesn't bite or act aggressive for a start. Make sure you get a calm, patient horse with no tendency to biting.

Ask about the horse. There should be SOMEONE showing you the horses! You've gotta ask about parents, conditions, any recent diseases etc.

Next thing, pick those you really really like as, for instance, top 5. Then you've gotta try ride all of them and see which one rides the best for you.

I think you'll be able to choose then :D

Good luck ;)

Answer 5

Yes here are a few questions to ask! =]

Has this horse had any former injuries?

If so What

Farrier schedule?

Attitude?

Up to date on shots and worming?

Does he/she need his/her teath floated?

Attitude round mares and other geildings?

Attitude around geildings and other mares?

Ground Manners?



Good Luck! And NEVER trust horse traders (personal expeirence!) Best Wishes=]