What should my riding level be before I consider buying a horse?

Question

If I did buy a horse I would be paying for full board.

I have enought time to go to the stable and ride for 2 hrs 6 days a week.

Money is not an issue, x0xsimply.
:]

Answer 1

I think you should ride regularly for about a year before purchasing your own horse. This way you will get a feel for whats all involved, your comfort level, which type of horse would be a good match for you, etc.
This most important thing for new owners to do is to SURROUND YOURSELF WITH KNOWLEGABLE PEOPLE. When you choose a boarding stable(all new owners should board), make sure there are people around that will help you. Horse people have a common bond, and the other boarders will be glad to help. You also need to choose a facility where there is a riding instructor and trainer, it could be one person that does both. Horses are like children, they want to see what they can all get away with and the horses need to be "tuned up" by an experienced rider every once in awhile. Also continued education to improve your riding skills is vital, no matter how long you've been riding.
I would pick out a stable to board at beforehand, one with these key factors. Don't forget also if you live in a state with harsh climates, an arena is a must. Get to know the trainer at your new stable or ask your current instructor to assist you in your first horse purchase. It is vital to find a good match. All horses do not mesh with all people.
Even the most experienced horseman are still learning. Its when we think we know it all that we get into trouble. Good luck on your new venture, remember to listen to people that have been there. We all had to start somewhere. Happy trails....

Answer 2

depends on the horse. I would say get regular lessons or work someone else's horse at least 3 times a week for at least 6 months. Do everything for it that you would have to do if you owned one (stalls? bale hay? figure out worming/vaccination/farrier costs) and see if you still have the money and interest to keep a horse after that long. I see a lot of people love horses and think they will forever, but after 6 months or so, lose interest and the horse sits neglected in the backyard.
As for actual riding experience- doesn't matter. You should be getting some form of lessons if you are a beginner, but there are dead broke horses (if someone advertises a dead calm one under 6yrs- be wary). If you are a brand new beginner, I would suggest getting a 10yr + horse with a quiet disposition and a lot of trail or show miles. Do not even look at how the horse's confirmation/color is unless it has the potential to cause you problems.
The one horse we have that absolutely anyone can ride is an ugly calf poop colored appaloosa with a huge head and teeny tiny ears. Ugliest thing ever but we can trust anyone on him.

Answer 3

What ever you are now. There is a horse for every level of riding. Buying a horse is more then just buying one and riding it when you want. You may want to think about leasing one first to see what it is like. Questions to ask yourself. Are you going to board or have him on your own property? How much money and time do you have? Are you up for feeding twice a day and grooming out everyday? As well as cleaning the stall? No matter how sick you are it has to be done. Do you have the money for Vet bills and the farrier? As Well as Feed, Hay, Saddle, Bridle, Halter, Lead, Bits, Grooming supplies and more? Horse are a lot of work. I have two of them. Just some things to think about before you go and buy a horse.

Answer 4

I would take 6 or 7 riding lesson first. How ever if you want to buy a horse now make sure it is at least 10 years old and has allot of experience.

Answer 5

i personally believe that before you can buy a horse you need to be able to tack ur horse on ur own, ad be able to walk trot canter and gallop with confidence. and would be even better if u have fallen off a few times and still come out strong. of course it depends on ur age and if u are going to be doing this alone. if u are going to be boarding ur horse at a riding stable i am sure the instructors and people who work there will help you, so i think it's most important to have a general knowledge of riding and be able to tack ur horse on ur own. horses are amazing and i recommend one as long as ur are responsible, good luck :-)

Answer 6

5+ years....but you cannot count the years you rode whenyou were under 13...under that age it is just puppy love..or horsey love...depends on the way you look at it.