Buying Trail Horse

Girl in a blue shirt standing in a barn with pockets out of jeans.

OnStaff at Horse&Rider

Buy a horse, they said. It will be fun, they said. The happiness that comes from owning and riding horses is undeniable, it’s true. But hey—we need to consider the challenges, as well.

Bob Avila riding a palomino in an outdoor arena.

Save yourself trouble and heartache by learning from the eight horse-buying mistakes I see buyers make all too often.

Horse shopping can be stressful. Be sure to try the horse under the conditions in which he’ll be used—on the trail for a recreational-riding horse, for example.

If you aren’t gifted with the Midas touch when it comes to horse shopping, Pat Parelli offers tips to ensure that your next purchase fits the bill.

Group of riders trail riding

Horseback Trail Riding Training

You know what you're looking for in a dream trail horse, you just need to locate him. Here are six great places to start your search.