Expert Scott Hassler

Questions (For answers, scroll down or click on question)

What's the best age of horse for a child that's 12?

I am 5'3" and weigh 125 lbs. I own an 11 H grade pony (probably a welsh or shetland mix). Am I too big for him? I only ride him about every other week and we only go on half hour trail rides.

What rider weight is too much for a horse and what weight is too little for a horse?

I am seeking advice for selecting a horse to be used for trail riding by a rider who is 6 ft. and weighs approximately 230 lbs. What breed(s) and size should I consider?

I am an adult rider who has developed a great love for warmbloods and dressage.  I have limited hunter riding experience, but have the facility and the trainer to help me with a younger horse.  I really would love to buy one that could take me all the way in a couple of years.  Is it best for me to look for a "schoolmaster" or take a chance on a young horse with great potential, that I can buy now for less money?  I would like to stay under $15,000.

I am seeking advice on which breed of horse would be suitable to buy for hunting, eventing, and pony club shows.  I like Hanoverians, are they a good choice?  And, what are Oldenburg horses like?


Questions and Answers

Q: I am an adult rider who has developed a great love for warmbloods and dressage.  I have limited hunter riding experience, but have the facility and the trainer to help me with a younger horse.  I really would love to buy one that could take me all the way in a couple of years.  Is it best for me to look for a "schoolmaster" or take a chance on a young horse with great potential, that I can buy now for less money?  I would like to stay under $15,000.

A: Both of these situations have positive and negative sides.  If you purchase a schoolmaster, certainly he will teach you a great deal more than a youngster, very quickly.  Also, you know exactly what you are paying for, you can test ride him and see if you like the way he feels.  The negative is that probably by the time he has taught you all you can learn from him, he will be an older horse, therefore, losing much of his value.

In purchasing a young horse, there is a tremendous amount of risk.  You cannot tell how the youngster will collect, perform lateral work, his sensitivity, his self-carriage, etc. compared to the schoolmaster.  However, if you purchase a quality young horse and it happens to not be the right horse for you, probably he will be the correct horse for someone who is looking for a quality horse.  Your loss should not be too great, if any, to resell the youngster.  

Q: I am seeking advice on which breed of horse would be suitable to buy for hunting, eventing, and pony club shows.  I like Hanoverians, are they a good choice?  And, what are Oldenburg horses like?

A: Warmblood breeds today do not offer very much!  They all have suitable horses and would take selecting the proper one.  In general, the more Warmblood bred into the horse, means a good chance for less energy, quiet temperament, etc.  The more Thoroughbred bred into the Warmblood means more sensitivity, energy, speed, etc.

Take some time, look through books, magazines, etc.  Go look at some horse shows and get a feel for what you like and looks suitable.  I am sure you can find a wonderful prospect.  

Q: I am seeking advice for selecting a horse to be used for trail riding by a rider who is 6 ft. and weighs approximately 230 lbs. What breed(s) and size should I consider?

A: There is not necessarily a certain breed to look for, but must have a great disposition on the ground and up on his or her back and definitely must have experience trail riding. A part draft or heavier laid back warmblood cross or perhaps a shire cross would be a good place to start. 

Q: What rider weight is too much for a horse and what weight is too little for a horse?

A: There is no chart or exact number, per say, detailing the correct height and weight for matching a horse and rider. Basically, a very general basis is more on how the horse is built and carries weight. The best solution is to test ride the horse and see if both horse and rider feel comfortable.

Q: I am 5'3" and weigh 125 lbs. I own an 11 H grade pony (probably a welsh or shetland mix). Am I too big for him? I only ride him about every other week and we only go on half hour trail rides.

A: Ponies are very strong for their size, but you are too large for your pony.  Both of you will be comfortable with a different size partner.  Something at least 14 hands, preferably 14.2 hands or larger, would be a more suitable size for you.  A smaller rider will be more comfortable for your pony to carry.  Carrying too large of a rider could cause back trouble or other soundness problems.  I am sorry as I am sure you are very happy with your pony, but a different match would be better for both of you in the long run.

Q: What's the best age of horse for a child that's 12?

A: Children should be paired with horses that are well-schooled, easy to work around, and a suitable size for the child. Temperament and training are far more important than a specific age when looking for a new mount. In general, stay away from horses younger than 6 years for a youth as those horses tend to have less exposure and training. Look for a horse that is well-trained, easy to handle, and has been ridden by children in the discipline that you will be riding - i.e. english, trail riding, showing, western, etc. Older horses, even in their mid to late teens can be ideal because of their experience. Always seek advice from your trainer before purchasing a new horse. Good luck in your search for the right partner for your child.