Tips for Buying a New Horse - Part 1

So you've decided to embark on the epic journey into horse ownership.  Congratulations!  There are a lot of things to consider - too many to include right not but, fear not, there are more to come!

• Take the horses fitness level into account.  An unfit horse may be lazy and dull, but as their fitness level increases you may notice energy and behavioral changes.
• When arranging to try a horse, it's a good idea to see the horse being caught from the field (if they're in one), led in, groomed and tacked up in addition to being ridden.  Ground manners are very important and can make or break your partnership with a horse. 
• Before trying any horses develop a set of criteria that suit you and what you're planning to do with your new horse.  If you have a trainer/instructor that you work with ask them for their opinion.
• Finding a perfect match can take time and many trials! You may find it helpful to make some notes after viewing each horse so as not to forget any important details, or confuse one horse with another!