A horse purchase is both emotional and financial. The wrong horse can become unsafe, unsuitable or expensive very quickly. Take your time, bring an experienced person and treat documents and veterinary checks as essential.
Before the viewing
Define what you need: experience level, height, age, discipline, temperament, management and budget. Ask for videos, health history, competition record and reason for sale. Be honest about your own riding level.
At the viewing
See the horse caught, groomed, tacked up, handled and ridden by the seller before you ride. Watch behaviour in the stable, on the ground and under saddle. If something feels unsafe, stop.
Paperwork and vetting
Check the passport, chip and ownership information. A pre-purchase veterinary exam is strongly recommended, especially for riding horses. It cannot predict everything, but it reduces blind risk and gives you a clearer starting point.
