A definitive Beginner’s Guide to Choosing a Horse: Top Breeds for Novice Riders

Stepping into the world of horses opens a door to magic that’s hard to find anywhere else. The thrill of bonding with these special animals, learning their quirks, and growing together in trust and skill is a journey like no other. My journey began with two very different ponies that taught me how deep this bond can become, and the unique lessons each horse has to offer.

My first equine partner was a little grey pony named Sweet William. True to his name, William was the epitome of sweetness. He carried me through my earliest rides with a patience and gentleness that made every moment a joy. Together, we ventured into my first little show, collecting rosettes that felt like the grandest of trophies. Sweet William was everything a young, beginner rider could dream of, offering a safe and reassuring presence that nurtured my love for riding.

My time with Sweet William came to an end which paved the way for a new journey with my first very own horse, Goldflake. Unlike the polished poise of Sweet William, Goldflake was a scruffy little farm pony with a spirited mind of her own. Our initial attempts into jumping were far from the storybook successes I had imagined; they were, in fact, a series of comedic errors that ended with me on the ground more often than not. It wasn’t just my physical balance that was tested, but my emotional resilience too. Goldflake and I spent countless hours together, not jumping, but simply being. Riding through fields, mastering the art of ‘just walking’, and building an unshakeable bond.

Then came the day, six months into our partnership, when inspiration struck as I watched a friend leap over jumps with effortless grace. Something within me said, “It’s our turn.” With a heart full of trust and a dash of youthful optimism, I urged Goldflake towards a jump. To my amazement and joy, she sailed over it with ease. From that day forward, jumping was no longer a hurdle but a shared joy.

Sweet William showed me the beauty of a gentle introduction to horseback riding, teaching me the basics and sharing in the joy of small victories. Goldflake, on the other hand, was a masterclass in patience, trust, and overcoming challenges. She may not have been the ideal choice for a beginner, with her spirited nature and initial reluctance, but she taught me invaluable lessons about perseverance, understanding, and the deep, complex bond that can grow between horse and rider.

Through Sweet William, I learned how to ride, but it was Goldflake who taught me what it truly means to be a horse person. Together, they illustrated the full spectrum of what beginning a journey with a horse can entail: the excitement, the challenges, and the unparalleled joy of forming an unbreakable bond with these incredible animals. It is important to remember that each horse, with its own personality and lessons to teach, holds the key to invaluable growth and unforgettable memories.

Starting this journey with your first horse isn’t just about choosing a horse; it’s about choosing a path. Understanding your riding goals is akin to setting the compass for this adventure. It shapes the bond you will form with your horse and guides every decision in the journey ahead.

The first step is to ask yourself, “What do I envision doing with my horse?” Your answer could range from serene trail rides through the countryside, where the world seems to stand still and the bond between you and your horse deepens with every step, to the adrenaline-fueled arenas of competitive showjumping, where every jump is a testament to the trust and training between you and your equine partner. Perhaps your goal is more introspective, seeking a companion for learning and growth, where each day with your horse brings new lessons in patience, confidence, and understanding.

The beauty of equestrian life is that there’s no one-size-fits-all. Each rider’s journey is unique, and so too should be their choice of horse. For those dreaming of long, peaceful rides, a calm and steady horse that enjoys the journey as much as you do might be the perfect match. For the aspiring showjumper, a horse with the right combination of agility, speed, and temperament is essential. And for those looking to learn and grow together with their horse, finding a patient and forgiving partner can make all the difference.

Remember, the goal isn’t just about the activities you want to do; it’s also about the journey you’re willing to embark on. It’s about finding a horse that not only matches your current skill level but also has the potential to grow with you. The right horse will challenge you just enough to foster growth, without overwhelming you, creating a fulfilling and progressive partnership.

As you reflect on your goals, consider the journey itself. Much like my experiences with Sweet William and Goldflake, your goals may evolve. What starts as a leisurely path may ignite a passion for competition, or vice versa. The key is to begin with a clear vision, yet remain open to the journey’s unexpected turns.

Choosing a horse is about choosing a partner who will share in your dreams, challenges, and triumphs. By understanding your riding goals, you lay the foundation for a partnership that will enrich your life and that of your horse, creating a bond that transcends the ordinary and touches the extraordinary.

Before leaping into horse ownership, it’s crucial to consider not just your heart’s desire but also the practicalities that ensure a fulfilling and responsible partnership. A horse is not merely a pet; it’s a commitment to a living, breathing being that relies on you for its care, companionship, and well-being. This journey, while incredibly rewarding, comes with significant considerations of time, space, and financial investment.

Time: Horses require daily care, attention, and interaction. This isn’t just about the joyous rides or training sessions, but also the essential daily routines—feeding, grooming, and health checks—that ensure your horse remains happy and healthy. This commitment goes beyond mere minutes; it’s a lifestyle choice. For me, the time spent with Goldflake and Sweet William was not just about riding; it was about building a bond and understanding each other, which was only possible through daily interaction and care.

Space: Adequate space is essential for a horse’s physical and mental well-being. This means access to a safe, secure, and comfortable environment, whether it be a stall in a well-maintained stable or pasture for grazing and exercise. The environment should cater to the horse’s natural behaviors, providing them with the opportunity to roam, socialize, and rest as needed. Considering space also means thinking about the facilities available for training, riding, and, if needed, medical care.

Financial Commitment: Beyond the initial purchase or adoption fee, the financial commitment of horse ownership includes ongoing expenses such as feed, veterinary care, farrier services, tack, and possibly boarding fees. These costs can add up quickly and are crucial for maintaining your horse’s health and happiness. It’s important to budget not just for the predictable expenses but also for the unexpected—illness or injury can bring unforeseen costs that are part of the responsibility of horse ownership.

Owning a horse is a journey of the heart, but it requires more than love to make it a successful, long-term partnership. It demands a dedication to understanding and meeting your horse’s needs, a commitment that goes beyond the idyllic rides into the realm of daily responsibility. This isn’t meant to deter you but to prepare you for the reality of horse ownership—a reality that, when embraced, leads to one of the most rewarding relationships you’ll ever experience.

As you consider stepping into this beautiful world, reflect on these essential considerations. They are the foundation upon which the joyous moments with your horse are built, ensuring a relationship that is as rewarding for your horse as it is for you.

The American Quarter horse gets its name for being the fastest horse over a quarter of a mile or less. It cannot outrun a thoroughbred over longer distances but due to its build of being low to the ground with short legs and a huge hind quarter engine, it can get going very quickly and is very fast over this short distance.

It is the most popular horse in the United States of America today. It has the largest breed registry in the world with almost 3 million living quarter horses registered in 2014, American Quarter horses have been exported all over the world.

They are well known for taking part in rodeos, horse shows, and working farm horses.

They have a small, refined head with a straight profile and a strong well-muscled body with a wide chest and a strongly built, rounded hind quarter. They are usually between 14 and 16 hands high with the average being around 15.1hh.

Quarter horses are very well suited for beginner riders as they are very calm, intelligent, and extremely trainable. They are very good horses for all levels of riders and the older, well-trained quarter horse is especially a very good horse for a beginner rider.

They are a hard-working breed who want to please their rider which is why they have been so successful as working horses.

morgan horse

Friesan horse

These beautiful black beauties come from Friesland in the Netherlands. They are known for their long-flowing manes and tails. They grow between 14 and 17 hands high, with their average being around 15.3hh.

The Friesan is well-muscled and compact. It has short, big-boned legs compared to the rest of its body. They come in two types – the taller sports type with lighter bone and the Baroque type which is more classical with a thicker body and stronger bone. They have high knee action when trotting and cantering.

The Fresian horse today is used for carriage driving and as riding horses, they compete to quite a high level in dressage. In carriage driving, they compete in recreational driving, both individually and in teams. Because of their striking appearance and easy-going temperament they are widely used in movies and television, particularly in historic and fantasy dramas.

They are sensitive, intelligent horses that are perfectly suited for beginners. They stay calm when in an unknown situation and are friendly horses that are very eager to please their owners.

connemara pony

This horse breed is native to Western Ireland and was bred to help the farmers on their land. They have both Spanish and Scandinavian blood (from the Icelandic horses mentioned above) and they average around 14 hands.

They are known to be very patient and gentle with children and seem to really enjoy human company. They enjoy regular visits from their owners.

These little horses are very athletic and can jump extremely well, I had a super Connemara pony when showjumping in England, she was only around 15.1hh but was unbeatable in the 1.20-speed classes and absolutely loved her jumping.

These ponies/horses have a wonderful disposition and are very easy to handle, making them wonderful horses for children and adults alike in all stages of their journey with horses.

As we close this guide, I’m reminded of the early mornings spent with my first horse, the cool dawn air filled with the sweet scent of hay and the soft murmur of the stable. My first horse was my teacher, my confidant, and my family. Sweet William, with his gentle eyes and patient demeanor, introduced me to the joy of riding, the thrill of connection, and the pure, unadulterated love that only a horse can bring into one’s life. And then came Goldflake, the scruffy little farm pony with a heart as golden as her name, who taught me that trust is earned, not given, and that courage often comes in the form of a canter towards a jump you’re both afraid to take.

These horses didn’t just teach me how to ride; they taught me about life. They showed me the importance of patience, the value of hard work, and the incredible strength that lies in vulnerability and trust. The journey with each of them was filled with challenges, laughter, and lessons that I carry with me to this day. The bond we shared transformed me, teaching me lessons in leadership, empathy, and unconditional love.

This transformative power of the bond between a horse and rider is what I hope for you as you embark on your journey to find your perfect horse. It’s a bond that goes beyond the confines of riding disciplines or the physical acts of grooming and care. It’s a connection that touches the deepest parts of our souls, changing us for the better, teaching us about ourselves, and showing us the beauty of life from the back of a horse.

Remember, the path to finding your horse is as much about finding yourself as it is about finding an animal. It’s a journey that promises growth, challenges, and unparalleled joy. So as you step forward, carry with you the knowledge that the horse you choose will not just be a part of your life—they will become a part of your heart, a member of your family, and a pivotal character in the story of your life.

Here’s to the beginning of your journey, to the lessons you’ll learn, the challenges you’ll overcome, and the joy that awaits you. May the horse you find bring as much love, learning, and transformation into your life as Sweet William and Goldflake brought into mine. Read more specifics about how to buy your first horse here.

Educational Websites and Online Platforms

1. The Horse: This website offers extensive information on horse care, health, management, and training. It’s a great resource for both beginners and seasoned horse owners. www.thehorse.com
2. Equus Magazine: Equus provides articles, veterinary advice, and insights into horse behavior, making it a valuable resource for understanding and caring for horses. www.equusmagazine.com

Organizations for Equestrian Sports and Welfare

1. United States Equestrian Federation (USEF): The governing body for equestrian sport in the U.S., offering resources for competitive riders and those interested in becoming involved in equestrian sports. www.usef.org
2. The British Horse Society (BHS): Offering a wealth of information on riding, horse care, and certifications. It’s also a great source for finding riding schools and instructors in the UK. www.bhs.org.uk
3. World Horse Welfare: An international charity dedicated to the well-being of horses. They offer advice on care, welfare issues, and how to get involved in helping horses in need. www.worldhorsewelfare.org

Online Forums and Communities

1. Chronicle Forums: Hosted by the Chronicle of the Horse, this forum is a vibrant community for equestrian sports enthusiasts to discuss all things horse-related. www.chronofhorse.com/forum
2. Horse and Hound Forum: Part of the Horse and Hound magazine, this forum offers a platform for discussions on a wide range of horse-related topics, from care and feeding to training and competitions. forum.horseandhound.co.uk

Books and Literature

• “Centered Riding” by Sally Swift: A classic read for equestrians of all levels, focusing on improving balance, posture, and effectiveness through understanding body mechanics.
• “The Complete Horse Care Manual” by Colin Vogel: This comprehensive guide covers all aspects of horse care, from daily maintenance to medical care, making it an indispensable resource for new horse owners.