How Big of a Horse Do I Need? (How to Choose the Correct Size Horse)

• Racehorses. Racehorses، of course، are burdened with as little weight as possible. (Because of this، it's worth noting that thoroughbreds generally have less bone and are not up to as much weight as their height would indicate، especially taller thoroughbreds bred to go over longer distances).

Will Your Horse Complain If Over-Burdened?

The answer is maybe.

• Mules. Mules are particularly known for making it very clear to their handlers if they are being asked to do too much and may even lie down and refuse to move until part of a pack is removed.

• Horses. Many horses، however، will continue to work without complaint regardless. Horses will keep going when over burdened، lame or tired، and I have، many times، had to literally stop one from trying to continue to work when it clearly should not. Although I have known horses، especially ponies، to balk or stop and refuse to move if the rider is too heavy، most will not. It's therefore up to the better judgment of the rider to determine when something might be too much.