Horse Breeds to Avoid When Buying Your First Horse
Although I love all horses and would consider any breed under the right circumstances, there are certain breeds I would recommend first-time horse owners avoid. This advice is particularly aimed at new horse owners looking for their first horse or those who are brand new to horses and wondering what type of horse would be suitable for them. Below are breeds that may not be ideal for inexperienced owners due to various reasons.
Thoroughbreds
Thoroughbreds are primarily known for being racehorses, trained to run fast. They are very athletic and versatile, capable of being trained to do almost anything. However, they tend to be sensitive in terms of personality and are considered hot-blooded horses.
The main reason I recommend new horse owners avoid Thoroughbreds—especially off-the-track Thoroughbreds (OTTBs)—is because these horses are racehorses that have retired from racing and are being sold to the general public. Many people purchase OTTBs because they are inexpensive, without realizing the amount of training and rehabilitation these horses require.
Off-the-track Thoroughbreds have been trained solely to race, so they need specialized training to become proper riding horses. Additionally, they may need rehabilitation due to health issues such as leg injuries or bowed tendons.
While these horses may be cheaper to purchase initially, the costs of training and veterinary care can add up quickly. Unless you are prepared for the responsibility and expenses associated with retraining and rehabilitating an OTTB, it’s advisable to consider a mature, well-trained Thoroughbred instead.
Mustangs
Mustangs are wild horses that roam America and are rounded up by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) annually to be auctioned off. People are often drawn to Mustangs because they are inexpensive; some have been acquired for as little as $25. However, these horses are completely wild and require taming and training, which is a significant undertaking.
The BLM also has specific requirements for adopting Mustangs, such as needing six-foot-high round pen panels to contain them, as they can climb out of normal fences. Sending a wild Mustang to a trainer with the expectation of getting back a perfect horse is unrealistic, especially for a first-time horse owner.
Training a wild horse is a complex process, and the horse may not ultimately suit your abilities or needs. It’s safer and more practical for new owners to acquire a horse that is already trained and suitable for their skill level.
Arabians
Arabians can either make great first-time horses or require a more experienced handler, depending on the individual horse. They tend to get a bad reputation for being high-strung or sensitive, although my personal experience with Arabians has been positive; they are often pleasant and quirky.
The reason I advise new horse owners to be cautious with Arabians is due to the current state of the breed in America. There is an overpopulation of Arabians, leading many to end up in auctions or kill pens. Some people may acquire an Arabian without understanding how to handle them properly, which can result in the horse being neglected or mistreated. I want these horses to find the right homes with experienced owners who can meet their needs.
Draft Horses
Draft horses are larger than most other breeds and require more care due to their size. While they often have wonderful personalities and can be great for families, they also come with higher costs and specific needs.
Draft horses can weigh over a ton and need a significant amount of food—typically 1–2% of their body weight daily. This means higher feed bills compared to average-sized horses. They also require specialized farrier care because of their large hooves and the difficulty they may have balancing on three legs during hoof maintenance. This often necessitates hiring a specialized farrier and potentially using stocks to safely work on their feet. For first-time horse owners, these additional responsibilities and expenses can be overwhelming.
Miniature Horses
Miniature horses are adorable and can make great pets. They are friendly, great with kids, and fun to have around. However, they require careful dietary management, which is often overlooked.
Miniature horses are prone to obesity, which can lead to serious health issues like laminitis and founder. They need to be carefully monitored for weight gain, often requiring a dry lot (an area without grass) and specialized low-sugar diets.
Managing a miniature horse’s diet can be labor-intensive and sometimes feels burdensome, as it restricts their ability to graze freely—a natural behavior for horses. For new horse owners, the specialized care required to keep a miniature horse healthy may be more demanding than what you’re counting on.
Conclusion
Choosing the right horse as a first-time owner is crucial for both your safety and the horse’s well-being. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly! It’s important to select a horse that matches your skill level and to be aware of the specific needs and challenges associated with certain breeds.
If you’re considering getting your first horse, I offer an online course that covers everything you need to know about horse care. This course can help you prepare to take care of your horse effectively and responsibly. For more information, visit shop.equinehelper.com and check out the Horse Care Keys to Success course.
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