How to Buy a Jumping Horse

Buying a Jumping Horse

Monday 07 December 2009

When buying a jumping horse you should consider that all horses can jump, just some better and higher than others and it is these horses that you are looking for. Some breeds are much better than others at jumping but this is just the first step, it is very important to look at each individual horse’s jumping potential. Below are some simple guidelines advising how to buy a jumping horse.

Buying a Jumping Horse Instructions

1. Decide how high you want the horse to jump before starting to look for your perfect show jumping horse.

2. Think about your own level of skill, if you are a beginner it is advisable to choose a horse that already has the training and ability to jump at least three feet. If you are more experienced you might want to search for a horse without as much training but with more potential.

3. Choose what breed of horse you would prefer; on the whole hot blooded horses are the best at jumping but don’t become complacent and make sure you look at the individual horse’s performance.

4. Contact jumping stables, this will save a lot of time as you can see more than one horse at once. If you go to individual sellers it is harder to compare horses and takes a lot longer.

5. If you are considering a horse that is geographically far away, you can always request a jumping video from the seller. This is a very good idea as it is vital you see how the horse jumps and moves.

6. Ask for a detailed list of the horse’s training and accomplishments.

7. Once you have shortlisted your favourite horses go and watch the owner jump the horse, watch for lameness and reluctance to jump.

8. If you are happy with the horse jump it yourself over a range of obstacles. Include the obstacles that are daunting to horses like walls, flower boxes and gates; you wouldn’t want your horse to refuse a jump in a horse show.

9. Get an equine vet to examine the horse before you buy, it is very important that the horse is fit and healthy before you purchase.

10. Check for navicular changes and hock problems particularly, if the horse has either of these then it will not have a very long career. Also make sure the capacity of the horse’s heart and lungs are within normal limits.

11. Purchase the horse on condition it passes the veterinarian’s examination and the transferral of all important paperwork.

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