A Complete Guide to Buying a Horse in Türkiye

Buying and owning a horse is a significant responsibility. The idea of owning your own horse is certainly exciting, but it’s important not to rush into the process. Thoughtful planning and a clear understanding of every step will lead to a safer, more satisfying experience—for both you and the horse.

This guide will walk you through the key stages of buying a horse in Türkiye. If at any point you need support, don’t hesitate to contact the Türkiye Equestrian Foundation (Türkiye Binicilik Vakfı) or reach out to our legal team at Bayraktar Attorneys for assistance with contracts or dispute resolution.

Part 1: Financial Planning

Before you begin your search, take a realistic look at your financial situation. Can you cover not just the purchase price of the horse, but also the ongoing monthly expenses? These may include:

• Stable or pasture fees

• Feed and supplements

• Farrier (hoof care)

• Veterinary care

• Tack and equipment

• Insurance

You may be able to afford the initial cost of a horse with your savings, but unless you have a stable monthly income or financial plan to cover maintenance costs, ownership can become unsustainable. We strongly recommend preparing a detailed budget and consulting with professionals to ensure long-term affordability.

Part 2: Finding the Right Horse

The first step in selecting a horse is defining your purpose. Are you buying a horse for leisure riding, competitive sports, breeding, or companionship? Once you clarify your goals, consider these factors:

• Height and Age: A horse’s cidagoheight (the height at the withers) and age should match your physical capacity and riding skill.

• Breed and Temperament: Some breeds are more energetic or competitive, while others are calm and beginner-friendly.

• Gender: Mares, geldings, and stallions may behave differently and have different maintenance needs.

• Training and Competition History: A horse with competition experience may cost more but could better suit advanced riders.

• Budget: Set a realistic price range including the cost of transport and veterinary checks.

• Distance: Decide how far you're willing to travel to see the horse—locally, within Türkiye, or abroad.

Where to Look?

Horses are advertised on online marketplaces and print publications, but the best horses are often sold by word of mouth before they’re ever listed. That’s why you should inform your trainer and equestrian contacts about the kind of horse you're looking for.

Some sellers allow buyers to visit farms with multiple horses to try. While this can be convenient, it’s vital to research the seller’s reputation beforehand. A simple Google or social media search and reference checks can help you avoid dishonest sellers.

⚠️ Important: The Türkiye Equestrian Foundation strongly advises first-time buyers to avoid purchasing horses through sales arenas or auctions. These environments often don’t allow you to see the horse in its usual setting, nor to test-ride the horse before purchase.

Part 3: Evaluating Your Experience and Requesting a Trial

Know Yourself First

Being honest about your own riding ability, knowledge, and experience is absolutely crucial when purchasing a horse. Buying a horse that exceeds your skill level may not only lead to disappointment but can also create dangerous situations.

The horse may not respond well to your cues, which can increase the risk of accidents and cause stress for both rider and animal.

That’s why it’s strongly advised to bring along a trusted, experienced equestrian when you go to view a horse. Someone who understands your needs and skill level can provide valuable input during the visit.

The Türkiye Equestrian Foundation offers expert trainers who can accompany you to horse viewings and provide an impartial assessment of whether the horse suits your level and expectations.

However, it is important to understand that a trainer may not be qualified to comment on the horse’s market value or advise you definitively on whether to make a purchase. In such cases, it’s wise to seek a second or even third opinion.

Requesting a Trial Period

If the seller agrees, requesting a trial period can be a smart and practical step. It allows both you and the seller to confirm whether the horse and rider are a good match. But this trial must be governed by a written agreement that clearly states:

• Who will care for the horse (feeding, stabling, farriery, etc.)

• Who will bear the costs of any emergencies or veterinary care

• The time frame and terms of the trial

For this, Bayraktar Attorneys can assist you in preparing a professionally drafted trial agreement or preliminary sale contract to avoid future disputes.

Part 4: Pre-Purchase Veterinary Check and Legal Considerations

Never Make an Impulsive Purchase

No matter how impressive a horse may seem, never finalize a purchase without a thorough examination. Even the most experienced riders can make poor decisions when acting on emotion.

Take time to reflect on your choice, consult your trainer or a knowledgeable friend, and if needed, arrange a second visit with the seller before deciding.

Veterinary Check (Pre-Purchase Exam)

Before committing to buy, the Türkiye Equestrian Foundation strongly recommends a pre-purchase veterinary examination.

This examination should be performed by an independent and experienced vet who can assess the horse’s general health, soundness, and suitability for your intended use (e.g., jumping, dressage, or leisure riding).

Through this step, you may uncover underlying health issues or confirm that the horse is in good shape. This minimizes risks and gives you peace of mind.

The Türkiye Equestrian Foundation can assist you in arranging this examination.

Legal Aspects: Don’t Overlook the Contract

To protect yourself, never purchase a horse without a formal written agreement. At a minimum, the agreement should include:

• Purchase price

• Payment terms (full payment or deposit)

• Whether there is a trial period and under what terms

• Any known health issues or limitations

• Transfer of ownership terms

• Any warranties or representations made by the seller

To ensure that your contract is legally enforceable, we at Bayraktar Attorneys offer legal drafting and review services for equine sale agreements. This helps prevent misunderstandings and strengthens your legal position in case of any disputes.

Part 5: Red Flags, Passport Requirements, and Avoiding Scams

Be Aware of Fraud Risks

Just like in any industry, a small number of dishonest individuals may try to exploit inexperienced buyers. Therefore, do not rush to make any payments until you are absolutely confident in all verbal promises and terms of the sale. Always request written confirmation.

Key details to clarify with the seller include:

• Conditions under which a deposit is refundable

• Trial period terms and cost responsibilities

• A clear and signed sale contractand receiptfor all payments

If you are uncertain, you can consult the Türkiye Equestrian Foundation or request legal guidance from Bayraktar Attorneys to protect your rights.

Horse Passport and Microchip Requirements

According to Turkish regulations, every horse must have a valid passport and microchip. Never agree to buy a horse that does not have a passport, and ensure that the passport matches the horse you are purchasing.

Don't accept any excuses from the seller about why the passport is unavailable—this is a common problem and can lead to legal and logistical complications.

In addition, Turkish law requires the new owner to update the ownership information in the horse’s passport after purchase. Failing to do so is a violation and can result in penalties. For this update, you must contact the authorized Passport Issuance Organization.

Part 6: Finding a Proper Boarding Facility for Your Horse

Selecting the Right Stable

After purchasing your horse, finding a safe, well-managed, and budget-appropriate boarding facility is essential. Türkiye offers various types of equestrian farms and boarding stables—each with different levels of services, infrastructure, and fees.

Before choosing a stable, inspect the facility in person and consider the following:

• Daily routinesand feeding practices

• Facility quality, such as fencing, shelter, and water access

• Security measures

• Availability of companionship(important for herd animals like horses)

• Staff experienceand emergency care procedures

• Hidden or extra costsfor services like farrier care, training, or special feed

Club Boarding Options

If the facility meets your horse’s physical needs and aligns with your goals (recreational riding, competition, etc.), renting a stall from an approved equestrian club may be a suitable option.

It’s important that the boarding area provides both safe socialization with other horses and adequate physical space for movement and rest.

Need Help Finding a Stable?

If you're unable to locate a proper facility on your own, don’t hesitate to contact Bayraktar Attorneys. Based on your budget and preferences, our firm can help find a certified boarding location that aligns with your and your horse’s needs, ensuring legal compliance and animal welfare standards are met.