Sunday, June 2, 2013

Take Your Time When Inspecting Hunter Jumper Horses For Sale

By Frances Keith


If you are searching for hunter jumper horses for sale, it is important to give some thought to the qualities you need in your new mount. Horses of this type are not cheap. If you choose one that doesn't suit you, it may be difficult to get your money back if you decide to resell.

You may wish to exhibit your hunter jumper in the show-ring. Some classes are judged on the flat and the horse is not shown over hurdles. If your new mount isn't required to jump, it will be sufficient if he has good paces and manners, and is strong and well-conformed. If you plan to enter classes requiring jumping, you will need to ensure that he jumps well. He still needs to be well-conformed and eye-catching.

Good conformation is essential. Without it, he will not be considered in the show-ring. The horse should stand squarely. An attractive head will catch the judge's eye. The forehead should be broad and the profile preferably concave or straight. The eyes should be large and friendly.

There should be a nice arch to the neck. A sloping shoulder and well-defined wither are preferable. A horse with a straight shoulder will have a short, choppy stride and will be uncomfortable to ride. Strong, muscular hindquarters enable the horse to jump well. A back that is too long will be weak. A broad chest allows plenty of room for the heart and lungs. Well-sprung ribs are important too.

The legs are an important part of any horse but particularly so if it is to perform in the show-ring. They must be straight. The pasterns should not be upright as these need to absorb the shock when a horse lands after jumping. The bone must be hard and flinty. Watch out for imperfections such as splints or spavins. It is important that the legs point straight ahead. Both pairs of hooves must be of a similar size. The front hooves are often more oval in shape than the back ones.

When you inspect a horse that is for sale, firstly view him from all angles. Have him walked and trotted away from and towards you. He should travel in a straight line without throwing the legs out to the side. Watch the horse from the side too. That way, you will be able to tell if he is stepping short with one leg. A horse that moves well will use his hindquarters properly will overstep the imprints of the front hooves.

It is always best to ask the owner to ride the horse before you try it. Before saddling, check that the feet can be picked up easily and safely. The horse should remain calm and still when being saddled and bridled. It should stand to be mounted. If you wish to ride in classes requiring jumping, ensure that it will indeed jump and that it remains under control.

After seeing the horse ridden, you can ask to try it yourself. Be content to walk it around for a while first. It should feel as though it is stepping in a regular rhythm. It must be obedient to your commands. And don't forget, when viewing hunter jumper horses for sale, the colour of the horse is the least important factor.




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