Mounting a green rider on a green horse is a serious mistake. The rider can't improve his horsemanship if the horse is not trained to behave properly, and the horse can't learn to respond properly if the rider has not been taught how to give cues. Neither rider nor horse is capable of handling potentially dangerous situations that may arise on any bridle path or trail. Learn as much as you can about horses Every prospective horse owner should learn all he can about horses before buying. Keep an open mind while learning.
Material is available at libraries, bookstores and county extension offices.
Visit horse shows and breeding farms. Observe different breeds of horses and different styles of riding. Most horsemen will be glad to help a newcomer. A horse should please and satisfy its owner for more than just a few weeks or a few months. To do this, the horse must be capable of doing things the rider wants done.