Buyer's Guide

When purchasing a horse, we look for these primary elements:

Temperment

Assessment for a Saddlebred or Friesian horse's temperment involves observing his eyes and how he interacts with his rider or trainer. Another positive attribute is when the ears are forward and alert, which assists in determining whether a horse has a soft and curious expression. Additionally, we evaluate the following:

• Good ground manners
• Safety for an amateur
• Clipping, hauling, or standing during grooming

Consideration is always given to what the Saddlebred or Friesian's intended uses will be and who will maintain direct contact with the horse on a daily basis.
 

Fulfilling Need

A.J. Bruwer Stables assists in selecting and training the Saddlebred or Friesian horse that will meet the intended functions for its owner.

• Dressage
• Saddle seat
• Five-gaited
• Three-gaited
• Driving
• Trail riding
• Personal enjoyment at home

Investing in the right Saddlebred or Friesian horse is a significant challenge that requires professional consultation. A.J. Bruwer Stables understands this paramount consideration and offers over 25 years of experience to assist you in purchasing the right horse to fulfill your needs. This rare yet invaluable consultation yields positive results that include a more successful future with your Saddlebred or Friesian horse.

Though the Saddlebred and Friesian horses are capable of other functions, they each have their own specialized characteristics that distinguish them from other breeds. For example, the Saddlebred horse is most prominently known for its identity as a show horse with its signature gaited movement. The Friesian horse, with its combination of strength and elegance, is raised for success in the show horse category while also tamed for safe companionship for its owner.

A.J. Bruwer Stables can select and train your Saddlebred or Friesian horse to meet your needs while also maintaining the individual horse's personality and the authentic nature of its breed.

Conformation

At A.J. Bruwer Stables, we assess the physical attributes of each Saddlebred and Friesian horse to ensure the utmost quality and safety of your purchase.

• Front and hind proportion
• Neck and back length
• Legs, straight without bone abnormalities
• Healthy feet
• A healthy coat and long tail

Movement

We look for Saddlebred horses that naturally have a clean, rhythmic, and fluid action. Likewise, we choose Friesian horses that exhibit these qualities and also dressage types with good extension and natural, easy going canter.

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Resourceful Links

Saddle Horse Report - http://www.saddlehorsereport.com

The National Horseman - http://www.tnh1865.com

Saddle and Bridle - http://www.saddleandbridle.com

Jazzy Jods, for riding apparel - http://www.jazzyjods.com

Custom Clothier - http://www.carlosjchavez.com

Complete line of horse and pony tack - http://www.bennettspack.com

Complete line of horse and rider supplies - http://www.4showhorsetack.com

National Equestian Federation of the United States - http://www.equestrian.org

American Saddlebred Horse Association, Inc. - http://www.asha.net

Friesian Horse Association of North America - http://www.fhana.com

United States Equestrian Federation - http://www.usef.org