How to read a horse listing
What the words in a listing usually mean, what is missing when they are missing, and how to compare two horses fairly.
4 min read
Listings have their own language. Most of it is honest shorthand; some of it is what a seller says when there is nothing better to say. Here is a translation.
Level words
"Schooling" a level means working on it at home, not showing it. "Competing" or "showing" at a level means it has done it in the ring. "Has the scope for" means it has not. "Prospect" means young and unproven. "Been there, done that" means older and experienced, and worth more to most riders than a prospect.
Temperament words
"Amateur friendly" and "husband safe" mean quiet. "Forward" and "sensitive" mean not for a nervous rider. "Needs a confident rider" means it will test you. "Not a beginner's horse" is a kindness; take it seriously.
What is missing
A listing without a video, without an age, without the reason for sale, or without any history is a listing asking you not to look too closely. Ask. A page with the horse's whole record answers most of this before you have to.
Comparing two horses
Compare on the job you want done, at the level you ride, in the next two years. Then compare what each costs to keep, and what each record shows. Price last.
Find your next horse
Search horses for sale on the map, with the whole record behind each one.
Search horses