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There are many horses available “cheap” in the current economic climate. Cheap horses are often misunderstood as good bargains. There are many cheap horses, but very few bargains.
Horses take a considerable amount of time to train, if you do not have the time to devote to this effort or pay for a trainer, get one that is ready to perform now. Horse value is mostly based on the training level.
A safe, enjoyable horse should:
- Be caught easily
- Stand quietly for haltering, saddling, and bridling
- Lead willingly, back when asked (without a fight)
- Stand tied, quietly
- Allow you to handle and pick out all four feet
- Stand for mounting (on a slack rein if possible and without fidgeting after the rider has mounted)
- Walk, trot, canter, etc. on a slack rein
- Perform upwards and down transitions with body cues or minimal rein pressure
- Back willingly under saddle
- Stop in balance (on hindquarters)
Steve Jones Horsemanship 