How to Choose a Saddlebred Horse

Saddlebreds are showy and flashy.

Although all horses are majestic in their own way, the American Saddlebred, developed in Kentucky two hundred years ago, features lofty attributes from the Morgan horse, Canadian horses and the now-extinct Narragansett Pacer. With a four-beat gait, the Saddlebred offers a smooth ride and a flashy appearance. Look for breed standards when choosing a Saddlebred.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Visit in person before buying any horse. Although you can purchase a top of the line Saddlebred sight unseen, too many things can go wrong if you don’t view the horse. Photographs and videos are imperative if you can’t view the horse personally.

2. Look for an alert expression on the American Saddlebred with high pointed ears and large wide-set eyes. The horse’s muzzle will be lean with fine angles but the nostrils will be large. Her jaw line, muzzle and head are symmetrical with clean lines. Unscrupulous breeders may drug a wayward horse in order to lure and unsuspecting buyer who then finds out the horse is dangerous when it arrives at his stable. Healthy Saddlebreds always look alert.

3. Stand directly behind the horse and look at her hind legs. Her feet will be round with wide heels and her hocks straight. Imagine two straight lines running from the outside tips of her buttocks directly downwards, creating equal portions of leg on either side.

4. Notice the stance of the Saddlebred from the side and front. Her pasterns will slope at a 45-degree angle and her knees will be deep, with strong muscle support. The forearm of the front leg is muscular and long. She will hold her head high and erect on a long, lean and beautiful neck.

5. Research the breeder. While the majority of horse breeders and sellers are honest, insist on knowing the reason the horse is for sale. Dangerous horses may carry a low price tag but if you can’t ride the horse or get in the corral with it, any price is too high.

6. Insist that the owner ride the Saddlebred before you choose. A reputable seller will be happy to show you what the horse can do. If an owner refuses to ride, walk away from the deal.

7. Bring a professional trainer with you to assess the horse if you don’t feel comfortable doing so. In addition, a vet’s check is imperative and a Coggins test is required if you’re transporting the horse across state lines.

8. Make your final decision based upon the temperament and health of the horse. A more experienced rider may choose a more spirited horse but make sure the horse will fit your needs and goals before buying. Resist buying a horse that you just, “fell in love with.”

Tips & Warnings

• American Saddlebreds make wonderful show horses and are favorites for English riding disciplines.

• All horses are dangerous. Undergo proper horse training if you’re not an experienced rider before riding on your own.