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The Question: Could you give me some advice on buying a horse for our family? I am 29 years old and have a 3 year old daughter. The two of us really want a horse. My uncle buys and trains then sells horses he buys from auctions down south. He says he comes across all breeds and ages of horses. Can you tell me what age and breed of horse you think would be a good horse for me and my little girl to start out with? I would like to teach her the discipline and responsibility as well as having a dear friend to care for and ride.
You advice would be greatly appreciated.
Howdy, Getting a first horse is such an exciting time, and I'm glad you are taking some time to research what might be best for you and your family. I don't think that there is a best age or best breed for a first horse. What is much more important than age and breed is the horse's personality and his or her training level. You want a calm, quiet horse who does not spook or startle easily. He or she should be calm around children - their yelling or squealing should not cause him to jump. He should be well-trained - he should be easy to catch, halter, lead, trailer, tie, saddle, bridle and ride. To make sure the horse you are interested in is well-trained and quiet, visit him and ride him several times. Take an experience horse person with you who can not only ride him and see what he knows but who can also watch you ride him and who won't be afraid to share his/her concerns with you. Ask the owner that he allow you to catch the horse, lead him around, tie him up and groom him and saddle and bridle him yourself so you can see how he reacts. Once you find a horse you think will work for your family, find a veterinarian who can examine the horse for you. He can verify the horse's age, look over the horse for signs of lameness or illness that may affect the time you have with him. A few words of caution: your first horse should not be a stallion. Stallions require experience, special facilities, and special handling. Also avoid a young horse. While foals are cute and many parents are tempted to "let their child grow up with a baby horse", foals need experienced handlers to train them to be good equine citizens. I personally like older (20+ years old) geldings who have been show horses for a first horse. They've generally been around and seen a lot and have good training. They are able to teach you a lot about riding and horse care! Good luck finding your first horse - I hope you and your daughter enjoy your horse experience!
The Equine Behaviorist
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