Last Updated on March 15, 2022
When you’re looking to buy a horse, certain breeds stand out as good all-around options, so let’s take a look at how much does a Quarter Horse cost. The Quarter Horse is one of the most common and popular horse breeds in the United States. But before buying a Quarter Horse, you need to understand the cost.
Why Is The Quarter Horse Popular
The Quarter Horse is an athletic, versatile horse suitable for just about every equestrian activity. It is easier to manage and has a calmer temperament than the Thoroughbred. However, this good demeanor doesn’t make the horse any less capable of great success in competitions.
It is an intelligent breed, capable of great speed, and it is a sturdy horse. The Quarter Horse is most commonly seen in western riding events, but it also does well in English activities and trailing riding.
How Much is a Quarter Horse
Nicely trained all-around Quarter Horses cost between $2,500 and $10,000. Horses in the price range are wonderful riding and pleasure horses. If you are looking for a horse to compete at advanced levels, the cost rises considerably.
These horses can sell for over $25,000 and reach into six-figure sums. Many factors determine how much a Quarter Costs. The age, health, pedigree, and competition results, all increase or lower the price.
If you are looking to buy a horse, take serious note of what you want the horse to do and your riding abilities. Someone looking for a safe, quiet trail horse can often find a Quarter Horse for a lower price if they are willing to manage an old injury or health problem. These types of horses may need to change careers for a slower-paced life, and suit relaxed trail riding perfectly.
Age and Experience
A younger horse will not cost as much. However, taking on a young horse is not something to do lightly. You will need to train it and if you don’t have the experience, send it to someone to do this, costing more money.
If you want to compete, a horse with a solid show record will cost more than one that has no record or is just starting out. An older horse, in its late teens, past its competitive prime, costs less than it did at age 10.
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Confirmation will also affect the price. If the horse has faults or is not close to the breed ideal, the price will fall at the lower end of the average range.
Other Costs You Must Know About
Buying a horse is the cheapest part of owning. Once you have a horse, you are responsible for providing it good care. Even a light trail horse needs all the basics.
Horses need yearly vaccinations to protect them from life-threatening diseases. They also require a farrier visit every six to eight weeks. All horses need the farrier to pare their feet at a minimum.
If you compete or trail ride over rough terrain, the horse will need shoes. The farrier can cost anywhere from $40 to $300 per visit. Imagine yourself buying new sneakers every six weeks, and it gives you an idea of how much a horse really costs.
Horses eat a lot of food, especially hay, plus they sometimes need grain. This is a monthly re-accruing expense that never goes away.
After the basics, you then add on training and any unexpected vet bills. If you don’t have your own suitable property, you will have to board your horse. Boarding your horse can cost $300 for just a basic stable to well over $1,000 per month for a full-service facility.
If you add in the training board, the price goes up again. After you have all the care, you have gear and equipment costs. This will depend on where you keep your horse and if you compete or not.
Quarter Horse Price Conclusion
There are over 3 million Quarter Horses in the United States. It is therefore easy to find a quality horse for a decent price unless you are looking for an elite-level animal. If you are buying your first horse, make sure you always enlist the help of a professional.
Getting a professional to help will ensure you buy a horse suitable for your needs and abilities. It will also ensure you get a horse that is sound and without any hidden physical or behavioral problems. Finally, make sure you can afford the long-term costs involved with owning a Quarter Horse, or any horse for that matter.
What is the most expensive Quarter Horse?
Moonin The Eagle was trained by Rolando Almanza, and won or placed 10 of 14 career starts. He won the Remington Park Invitational Championship (G1), Sam Abbey Memorial Invitational, Hialeah Maturity, and South Florida Derby. He was second in the Refrigerator Handicap (G1) and Hialeah Derby and was a finalist in the Rainbow Derby (G1). He set a 440 yard track record at Remington Park of :20.808 and 440 yard track record at Hialeah Park in :21.192.
How can you tell if a horse is a Quarter Horse?
Modern American Quarter Horses are compact, muscular, and short in stature. In the past they were mainly used to cut cattle from herds and thus have excellent reflexes, the ability to turn quickly, and a great amount of speed for short distances. Nowadays, Quarter horses are used for all types of equestrian activities. They are well suited for western riding disciplines such as trail riding, barrel racing, dressage, jumping and polo. Quarter horses are also well suited for ranch work, farm work and ranch/farm cross country. The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) is the recognized authority on the care, training and showing of the American Quarter Horse.
Can Quarter Horses jump?
What is the difference between an Arabian and Quarter Horse?
Arabians on the other hand, have well refined wedge shaped head with large eyes, large nostrils, and a small muzzle. One of their main charasteristics is the arched neck, which gives them a proud appearance. They are normally not as heavy-set as the Quarter horse.
Are Quarter Horses used in racing?
Michael Dehaan is a passionate horse owner, horse rider, and lover of all things equine. He has been around horses since he was a child, and has grown to become an expert in the field. He has owned and ridden a variety of horses of different breeds, and has trained many to compete in shows and competitions. He is an experienced horseman, having worked with and competed many horses, including his own. He is an active member of the equestrian community, participating in events and teaching riding lessons.