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What breed is most suitable for a novice?

6K views 21 replies 15 participants last post by  Percheron Girl 
#1 ·
I am at present trying to find a suitable horse for part loan/share in the Southend-on-sea, Essex area.
I am a very confident novice but would prefer to hack out alone to brush up on my riding skills.
I would like some advice from more experienced horse owners regarding what age, breed and sex would be most suitable for me.
I look forward to receiving any responses.
Best Wishes Lisa.
 
#3 ·
Many Thanks.

Thankyou for your response and advice.
I would personally prefer a gelding aged between 10-15 and you are very right indeed regarding his personality, this is a crucial factor especially as this will be my first horse.
I require a sensible, bombproof horse only, although I wouldn't mind something alittle flighty as I am not a nervous novice, plus we all like alittle excitment every now and then don't we. :D
Best wishes Lisa.
 
#7 ·
I do hope so, it is more difficult than I intially thought. I am a sensible woman whom has waited patiently for so long, I haven't rushed into anything and now find that I have the spare time and finances, but unfortunately I worry that being a firts time owner and novice rider (although confident) puts sharers off- but surely they haven't forgotten that they were in my position once too.
Regards Lisa.
 
#11 ·
What breed?

How about trying a native breed?
My first horse was a Dales gelding, and he's been brilliant. He's extremely safe, and he's taught me so much. He's bombproof, but by no means a plod.
Either that or maybe try and Irish Draught if you're looking for something bigger?
 
#12 ·
Try qh, draft X, or walker. They are on cheaper side and you can certainly find very quiet one. Also try it for several days in row before you make decision: often people drug them so they look calm and ride great, and you find out it's a problem there only week later. :(

BTW, the best horses I tried while working in sales barn were all mares. :) But they can be handful for sure (especially in heat season).
 
#14 ·
a standardbred would be good especially if they have been off the track for a few years they are calm and paitent and they are devoted to you, my first horse was a standardbred gelding and he wasnt broken in but we just put the saddle on him and away we went, he never flinched
 
#15 ·
What i think

I reckon you shouldn't go past a QH. That is because they have a layed back nature. One i would defintally stay away from are raced Thoroughbreds, they are the worst because you have to reschool them. Some thing around ten and (depends on your heigfht and weight) stick around the 15hh mark!! 8)

:cry: Hope i wasn't to opionated, i don't mean to, it's jusy i have been there done that. :wink:

Have fun riding!! :!: :!: :!: :D
 
#21 ·
lol I just bought my first horse last Saturday and everyone has said it's a bad idea just becuase she's a 3 yr old paint filly but she is the sweetest horse ever probly becuase her owner worked with her as soon as she bought her when she was 6 months old. Ground work and such. So I think you could find a nice 4-5 year old as well if someone starts them early. :D
 
#22 ·
I'd have to agree with Ed and Alucard - a quarterhorse would be perfectly suited for a beginner. I have yet to come across one that wasn't well mannered. And I would also have to agree with everyone who suggested a gelding. They are more predictable! But really - when it comes down to it - breed doesn't neccessarily matter, and you'll know which horse is right for you and your ability when you meet him/her!!! :)
 
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