Once the decision is made as to where the horse or pony is to be kept and whether it is to live out or stabled consideration can be given to the type of horse to be bought. Hardy, robust breeds will do well living out all year round but finer horses often require much more care and cost if kept out all year, and may require to be stabled during the winter.

It is a good idea to make a list of what qualities are essential in any horse or pony and a separate list of what would be desirable or preferred. Any horse considered should at least have all of the qualities listed on the "essential" list and will hopefully have one or two of the qualities from the desired or preferred list also.

Any potential owner should be realistic about their own riding abilities and ability to handle a horse. Although most people like to buy a horse which can take them further in their riding, to buy a horse far beyond the rider's capabilities may mean buying a horse or pony that will be too much to handle and lead to regrets of buying it or even prove to be a danger to the owner. In the same way is not normally a wise choice for a novice rider/owner to take on a young horse (eg 6 years or under) that is not mentally mature and still has many new experiences to encounter.