Where to buy a Bulgarian horse is an often asked question. There is no doubt that buying a horse or pony for the first time is an exciting experience, particularly if you have come to Bulgaria from another country where you just simply couldn't afford it. It's easy to get carried away by a set of big brown eyes but the horse batting its eyelids at you may not be the right one for you. Beginners and first-time buyers frequently make common mistakes; over-horsing themselves or buying a downright "bad 'un", taking the fun out of what should be an enjoyable and fun hobby.

The most important advice we can offer is: if you don't know what you are doing, take someone with you who is really experienced. This will avoid many of the top pitfalls which new horse buyers make.

Top mistakes
Experienced horsemen will tell you that the most common thing they see are people buying an untrained horse. They are usually cheaper but this is seriously false economy if you are a beginner. Youngsters can look very cute but are not reliable and you could be putting yourself (and others) in danger. Older horses which are inexperienced and untrained can present an even bigger danger as they are much stronger and may not be inclined to do what you want, having been left in a field for the first 6 or 7 years of their life, contentedly doing nothing. If you are starting out, get yourself a horse which you can enjoy from the moment you get it home.

Many starting out into the world of horseriding turn down older horses in their teens yet many of these sound horses can be ridden for many years to come. Indeed, if you are only looking to do light hacking or driving, this could be just the most suitable partner. An older, well trained horse can really benefit the inexperienced rider.

It is a romantic idea to see your young horse grow up and train it yourself. Mixing young horses with beginner riders is not safe. Learn from a horse which has seen all the spooky things which the world presents to them and have fun.

A word about auctions. There are plenty here in Bulgaria but it takes a good eye to buy at auction. It is not unknown for horses to be drugged to make them look calm when they are in reality nothing but a bundle of nerves on a daily basis. Ill health and lameness can also be easily disguised. Auctions can additionally lead to impulse buying just because you so much want to go home with a horse. Don't buy that horse on first look. Go and see others. Buying on a whim could mean you don't select the horse most suitable for you.

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