If you are a keen rider and enjoy every aspect of both riding and stable management, it may have crossed your mind that you would like to own a horse or pony of your own. Being lucky enough to own your own horse or pony is a significant privilege for the equine enthusiast, and something that many horse lovers and riders may never achieve despite their experience and passion. Horses and ponies are, of course, expensive to both buy and maintain, requiring significant time, attention, and financial commitment beyond just riding. This comprehensive guide introduces the basics of buying and providing for a horse or pony, helping you decide if ownership is the right step for you.
Even before starting the search for a horse or pony, it is essential to honestly assess your readiness for ownership. Consider these key points carefully before moving forward, as horse ownership is a long-term and demanding commitment:
Horse and pony ownership is not for the faint-hearted. To explore further if this is right for you, see more advice here.
The price for buying a horse or pony varies enormously, from under £1,000 to tens of thousands of pounds, depending on breed, training, and purpose. To get a feel for the market, browse listings from trusted private sellers, such as those available here on Pets4Homes.
Ongoing costs are significant and vary based on your horse’s needs and location. Key expenditures to budget for include:
Caring for a horse or pony requires a substantial time investment daily. If you manage all care tasks yourself, expect several hours of stable work each day including feeding, mucking out, grooming, and turnout, usually requiring multiple visits to the yard in all weather. If part or full livery care is arranged, you will still need sufficient time to ride regularly and build a strong bond with your horse, with rides often taking a couple of hours from preparation to completion. Underestimating the daily time commitment is a common pitfall for new owners and can lead to welfare concerns if not managed.
Diets depend on breed, activity, and season. Summer often allows a significant proportion of grazing, though most horses need supplementary feeding with hay, especially in winter, when costs can rise considerably. High-energy feeds like sugar beet, oats, bran, coarse mix, and pony nuts are commonly used to tailor dietary needs. Understanding equine nutrition is key for health and performance.
Though large, horses and ponies need attentive health care. Regular worming, vaccinations, dental checks, and hoof care are essential. Recognising signs of illness or injury early can prevent costly treatments. Group vet visits can reduce routine costs, but always budget for emergencies. Insurance is highly recommended and can cover many health-related expenses. For detailed information on common equine ailments and insurance, see here, here, and here.
Horses and ponies are usually sold by private sellers. Many owners keep their horse for years before rehoming as their needs change. Common purchase sources include:
Buying a horse or pony should be a careful, considered process. Read why finding the perfect mount takes time and how to avoid common mistakes. After viewing and riding prospective horses, you should negotiate thoughtfully. Most sellers will expect offers below the asking price.
Before buying, arrange a thorough pre-purchase vetting examination. Good guidance on vetting is available here.
Ensure legal protection by considering a solicitor-drafted sales contract. Retain clear receipts detailing each payment. This legal clarity protects both buyer and seller.
Plan safely to transport and settle your horse or pony:
If the costs or time commitment of ownership are prohibitive, consider alternatives such as loans of horses or ponies to competent riders. Ride share or shared ownership agreements may also offer a viable way to enjoy riding without the full responsibilities of ownership. See shared ownership options for more information.