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Arabian
Breeders Come in All Shapes, Sizes
Other Arabian web sites tell you
which horses to buy,
but only ANN tells you how to buy the right one.
by Jan Austin
copyright © 1997 The Arabian Network Newsletter
Two of the most-asked questions to the Arabian Network Newsletter are, “Where do I find an Arabian?” and “How do I know the owner or breeder is reputable?” Fortunately, finding an Arabian is easy; knowing if the seller is reputable takes a little more work. There are many honest people out there. Unfortunately, it is the disreputable ones that give everyone pause before making such an important purchase.
Once upon a time, the owner of a large breeding ranch
referred to all those she felt beneath her as “backyard breeders.” She stuck her
nose so high in the air that when she finally looked down, her business was in
bankruptcy, in spite of owning some very nicely bred Arabians. Why? Well, in
addition to many mistakes, two large ones stand out: She failed to take into
account that it is not the size of the operation that makes it reputable or
successful, and she ignored the fact that her so-called “backyard breeders” are
the backbone of the American Arabian industry.
Many breeders with only a few mares have bred to the finest stallions in the country, producing quality foals one season at a time. Others have their own lesser-known stallions, every bit as correct in conformation and talented in performance, treated with caring and kindness to sire marketable get.
So how does one tell if a breeder is reputable? Here are some guidelines:
Ask for referrals. Not just one, but many from previous buyers, from those in training, from owners at shows, and from veterinarians.Do your homework. If this is your first horse, take someone with you that is knowledgeable. Ask if the person taking you has interest in selling the horse. This is not necessarily bad, since a reputable broker knows well of the horse’s qualifications. But it should be kept in mind if pressured to buy a particular horse.
Do not be afraid to ask questions. Arabian owners are remarkably candid and usually want the best for the horse as well as the buyer.
Be courteous and on time. One of the biggest complaints is that arrangements are made to see a horse, and the potential buyer never shows.
Do not be afraid to have the horse vet-checked. If a seller refuses, look elsewhere.
If you are looking for an Arab to be competitive, be sure to take an expert with you if you are unsure as to what wins and what does not. Do not rely on purported potential alone, especially in a young horse. Ask to see show records, and those for the dam, sire, and siblings.
Finally, while each breed has distinct characteristics, all good horses have basic correct conformation and freedom of movement. Here again, an expert can help, and/or a vet check.
If you are new to the industry, do not be afraid to look like a novice. Any reputable person will gladly help you learn simply because they love the breed. Many have very interesting stories to tell about the industry past and present on Arabian clubs and other activities.
Those truly interested in promoting the breed will want their horses to have a good life with people who will treat their Arabs well and continue extolling the versatility of the Arabian horse. Whether it is a large breeding facility with 40+ years of experience or a small backyard breeder creating that quality foal, it makes sense to buy from the reputable breeders and owners, and weed out the bad.
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