Important Questions before Buying Dressage Horses for Sale
Dressage is a competitive equestrian sport that International Equestrian Federation defines as ‘the highest expression of horse training.’ There are dressage competitions at different levels from amateur level to World Equestrian Games. If you are looking for dressage horses for sale, there are several questions that you should have answered. What makes a good dressage horse? A horse that is fit for dressage is one that has natural athletic ability, one that has willingness to perform, and one that is then trained rigorously. The rigorous training is important because it is only then that it will respond smoothly to the minimal aids of the rider. Ensure that the horse captures the movements that are included in Grand Prix dressage tests. These include piaffe, extended gaits, collected gaits (which include trot and canter), flying changes in sequence, pirouette, and half-pass.
How do you get the best dressage horses for sale? Consider the schooling of the horse before making a purchase. You should also consider the competition record and the history of the horse. You could bring in a professional to help you with your choice. Do your search online because you get to compare a lot more options. Does the level matter? You will get value for money if you go for a dressage horse in your level. Advanced dressage horses can be expensive and you do not need them if you are at the armature level.
Are good movement and soundness important? Note that these horses do not require as much adrenaline as draft horses and there is therefore a risk of arthritis. You should therefore examine the horse before making a purchase. Equally important is scrutinizing the horse’s soundness (its train-ability and its strength). A stallion or a mare? If you are an inexperienced rider, go for a gelding or a mare since a powerful stallion is not a good option whenever you are riding with company. Does size matter? When buying dressage horses for sale, go for a horse where you will be under mounted and not over mounted since handling over mounted horses is not always easy.