Horse Buying

Brad Barkemeyer gives advice on what to do when purchasing a new horse.

Challenge yourself! Have fun and test your knowledge of horses and horsemanship with Horse&Rider’s Trivia Challenge, featured in The Ride newsletter.

Please tell us: Have you ever bought a horse without first seeing it in the flesh? Take our poll!

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.

There are many ways to acquire a good riding horse; purchasing a prospect as a youngster is one approach. Horse&Rider wants to know if you’ve ever bought a riding prospect as a weanling. Tell us by participating in the Gallop Poll.

The prospect of upgrading your horse is exciting. It shows that you’re ready for more, you can set new goals, and you can expand your expertise. Riders who like to achieve thrive on that sort of thing. Onward and upward!

Are you an all-in risk-taker? Or a more conservative speculator? It matters when shopping for young horses.

When you’re buying a horse, don’t neglect this one key pre-purchase check that will tell you if you’ll be able to ride him with confidence.

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

Do you know how to evaluate a horse's disposition and willingness? Here are four key checks you can make of a horse's innate temperament.

Learn five ways that the greed in the horse industry can be hazardous to horses and people.

Nothing can be more exciting and fulfilling than buying a trail horse. However, such a purchase comes with risks. Will the horse become your reliable trail mount and partner in many safe, adventurous rides?