06/10/2025
I've seen this over and over again. But more often I find it's the inexperience of the owner who bought or was given the horse because it was fancy / pretty, and they were told by a seller / friend, etc that it would be "perfect" for them. People acquire horses for many reasons, but rarely without consulting or trusting the knowledge, and experience of a trusted horse professional. I have seen people pay for an evaluation from a professional, but were unhappy they paid someone to tell them "no, that is not an appropriate horse for you". Then they go buy another inappropriate horse for them (without consultation), and continue in the eternal struggle with being "over horsed". It always ends the same way though, they fall in love with the animal, and continue to struggle with the tricky relationship, and tolerate the situation. Eventually, they are able to find a "livable" situation for the horse, spending thousands of dollars to keep the animal, without ever experiencing joyful hours in the saddle.
Over-Horsed: When Good Intentions Go Wrong
Over the years, I’ve seen it time and time again—a rider arrives for a clinic, lesson, or training session with a horse they shouldn’t have. They’re over-horsed. And more often than not, it’s not entirely their fault.
The story usually begins the same way: “I was working with another trainer, and I told them I wanted a nice horse. They said this was the one.” Unfortunately, in some cases, trainers lose sight of their client’s actual needs, abilities, and long-term goals when horse shopping. Instead, they choose a horse that suits their preferences—something athletic, flashy, and enjoyable for them to ride or showcase.
But this often puts the amateur rider in a difficult—and potentially dangerous—situation.
Modern breeding has produced an abundance of horses with exceptional movement, sensitivity, and power. These horses are incredibly talented, but they’re not always suitable for the average adult amateur. It’s easy to be tempted by the "cake" when the market is full of top-tier horses, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right fit.
A trainer’s job is not to select the fanciest horse, but the right horse. One that fits the rider's skill level and goals. Horses with more modest gaits but a good temperament can still progress beautifully through the levels and, most importantly, they’re enjoyable and rideable for their owner.
Amateurs want to ride their horses, not watch from the sidelines while the trainer rides day after day. When a rider feels incapable of managing their own horse, motivation dwindles and so does the commitment to training.
Flashy movement and big dreams can be enticing, but for most riders, rideability and a willing temperament will bring far more joy and progress in the long run. There’s always time for the fancy horse—maybe next time.
