Whether you’ve been taking lessons for a while or borrowing a friend’s horse, there comes a point when you realize it might make more sense for you to have your own. Congratulations! Owning a horse is a huge responsibility but also very exciting.

But, how do you know if you’re ready? And, what will you need in order to properly care for a horse? And, how much does a horse cost?

How Much Does a Horse Cost

How much you choose to spend on a horse is greatly impacted by the age, breed, gender, size and prior training of the animal. But, the upfront costs are only the beginning. Caring for a horse requires upkeep that should be factored into your overall budget.

When budgeting, take into consideration the following:

Ultimately, when it comes to how much a horse costs, there is a pretty significant range. One of the best places to start is wherever you are currently taking lessons. Ask them about the breed and background of the horse you ride so you can find something similar. It also never hurts to ask if that specific animal is for sale.

Buying a Horse Checklist

Since you know that buying a horse is a major investment, you want to make sure you’re choosing the right animal for you. There is a lot to consider and it’s best to do as much research as possible. While it’s exciting and easy to fall in love with every horse you meet, you’ll know when you meet the right one for you.

Below is a checklist of questions to ask when buying a horse:

Ask for a detailed health history of the horse – This includes finding out the condition of his/her feet, previous scars or injuries, vaccinations, if it has ever coliced or foundered, etc.

Ask to see someone ride the horse – This allows you to monitor its behavior and movement before you ride it yourself. Note things like its sounds, if it is spooked easily, if it is gentle, how it responds to riders, etc.

Ask about the current owner – Ask things like how long they have owned it, what they feed it, how it was bred, what types of climates it can handle, why it is for sale, etc.

Ask about storing the horse – This includes finding out the type of trailer it’s used to, if it prefers a stall or pasture, if it needs a certain type of fence, etc.

Ask someone to go along with you – Take someone who is knowledgeable about horses and ask to consult with a veterinarian to get a checkup.

The very best way to find the right horse for you or your family is to just observe them as much as possible. Note their temperament, their quirks and the way they interact with the people around them. Follow your instincts and don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to feel confident you are making the right decision.

Believe it or not, owners are used to this and they want you to find the right horse just as much as you do!