Buying a horse: what do you really need to look out for?

Start with a clear list of requirements

Before you start browsing listings, it's wise to write down exactly what you're looking for. Think about: which discipline, how many hours per week you ride, how experienced you are as a rider, and what your maximum budget is including additional costs. Those additional costs are often underestimated — stabling, feed, farrier and vet bills can easily add up to €500 to €900 per month. A concrete list of requirements prevents you from being tempted by a stunning appearance that doesn't suit your level or situation at all. Also note your deal-breakers, such as certain behavioural issues or a minimum age.

What do you check during a viewing?

A viewing gives you a lot of information if you know what to look for. First observe the horse in the stable: how does it look, are there signs of stress such as crib-biting or weaving? Then pay attention to leading out and mounting.

• Movement at walk, trot and canter on a straight line and on a circle
• Behaviour during saddling and bridling
• Response to the aids of an unfamiliar rider (ride the horse yourself too)
• Hoof quality and any swellings or heat in the legs
• Behaviour in the company of other horses and when faced with distractions

Requesting the horse's history

Always ask for the passport and verify vaccinations, microchip number and ownership history. The more owners a horse has had in a short period of time, the more questions that raises. Also ask about previous injuries, treatments and medication use. A seller who is vague about this or refuses to show documentation is a clear signal to be cautious. Save all information in the EquiSight horse profile so that everything is organised if you decide to go ahead with the purchase.

Pre-purchase vetting: never skip it

A pre-purchase vetting by an independent vet costs on average €200 to €400, depending on the number of X-rays. That amount always pays for itself: even with horses under €5,000, hidden defects can lead to veterinary costs that far exceed the purchase price. Always choose a vet who has no connection to the seller. Discuss in advance what level of vetting you want — a basic examination differs greatly from a comprehensive protocol including blood tests and ultrasound.

Common mistakes when buying a horse

• Not doing a trial ride or riding for too short a time (at least 30 minutes in various situations)
• Relying solely on videos without seeing the horse in person
• Skipping the pre-purchase vetting to save money
• Forgetting to ask about the current feeding and training schedule
• Making a decision too quickly under time pressure from the seller

Practical arrangements for the handover

Put all agreements in writing, even when buying from a private individual. Note the agreed amount, the handover date, whether rugs and saddle are included or excluded, and any conditions such as the outcome of the vetting. Also agree on who is responsible for transport. Once the horse is with you, immediately create a complete profile in EquiSight — with a photo, passport details, weight and the findings from the vetting. This way you start organised straight away and can schedule vaccinations and farrier visits using the calendar.