Horse Sales Ads…Decoded
Finding the perfect horse isn’t easy–especially since there are many, many hidden meanings to the wording of advertisements. Don’t worry, we’re here to help.
[top image: Sport Horse Nation]
Have you ever gone out to try a horse that wasn’t exactly as advertised? Well, there’s a reason “horse trader” has a negative connotation–even if the owner’s intentions are good, the ad is almost never going to mention a horse’s not-so-great qualities (if they do, we feature them on Horse Nation). Generally, you have to read between the lines…which is where our handy guide to horse ad interpretation comes in.
All-around prospect: Could mean “nice, willing horse” or could mean “we have no idea what this horse is good at.”
Ammy friendly: In addition to being pretty uncomplicated, his horse will probably put up with you living out your childhood dreams of owning a pony. Birthday hat and carrot cake not included.
Careful: Over-jumps, every time.
Easy keeper: Get out the grazing muzzle.
Field hunter prospect: I don’t really know what “field hunter” means, but the horse did well in hunter under saddle classes, so…
Fun: Fast.
Good mind: Safe, but not going to exert any more energy than he has to.
Husband horse: Good luck getting this giant beast to trot.
Inquire for price: If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.
Kid safe: My kids have done death-defying stunts with this horse and have survived so far.
Lots of chrome: And that’s about the only good thing we can say about this horse.
Must sell, owner off to college: Don’t really want to sell, trying to convince parents to send horse to college too.
Needs some maintenance: You’d better be rich.
Not for beginners: Prepare for a rodeo when you try this horse.
Point and shoot jumper: This horse is going to jump with you or without you.
Prefer a show home: Because if you’re not in a training program, you’re going to ruin my horse.
Priced in the low four figures: This horse is cheap, but I want to make him sound expensive.
Scopey: Will jump you out of the tack.
Located in Aiken/Ocala/Wellington: Priced double what it would be anywhere else.
Sound: When he’s not lame.
Throws color every time: Buy mare, get foal free.
Uncomplicated: If you can’t get this horse to walk, trot and canter, you’re the one who needs training, not the horse.
Very fancy: Overpriced.
Got any more to add to the list? Share in the comments!
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