Buying a horse in the Netherlands: a step-by-step guide for international buyers
Looking to buy a sport horse in the Netherlands as a foreign buyer? This step-by-step guide covers everything from budget to veterinary inspection.
Why the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is one of the world's leading equestrian nations. We have a large number of professional breeders, a strong equestrian culture, and a high concentration of top-level dressage and show jumping horses. For international buyers, the Netherlands is therefore a logical starting point.
Whether you come from Germany, the USA, the Gulf Region, or another country: the procedure is similar. The most important thing is knowing what to look out for.
Step 1: Determine your budget and wishes
Before you start your search, clarify the following:
- —Discipline: dressage, show jumping, eventing, or a young talent?
- —Level: what rider level suits you? Choose a horse that will help you progress for a few years, not one that is already beyond your current abilities.
- —Age: young horse (4-6 years) with potential, or experienced competition horse (8-12 years)?
- —Height: usually between 1.60 m and 1.75 m, depending on rider's height and discipline.
- —Budget: consider not only the purchase price but also inspection, transport, import, and aftercare.
Step 2: Search specifically within the offerings
The Dutch offering is extensive. Focus on:
- —recognized sales stables and breeders;
- —horses with clear video and studbook papers;
- —horses with a transparently stated price.
If you don't have time to search everything yourself, you can use a horse sourcing service. We will then look within our network for horses that match your profile, even if they are not yet online.
Step 3: Request videos and studbook information
Buying a horse based on photos alone is risky. Always ask for:
- —videos of the horse under saddle, on the lunge, and loose in the arena;
- —a copy of the studbook or passport;
- —information about the sire, dam, and grandparents (especially for young horses);
- —an overview of any competition results or inspection scores.
Step 4: Plan a trial ride or viewing
Ideally, you should come to the Netherlands yourself to try out the horse. Bring your own trainer or an independent expert. If you cannot come yourself, ask someone from your network to assess the horse.
A trial ride will answer questions such as: does the character suit me? Is the horse calm-minded? How does it react to new stimuli?
Step 5: Arrange an independent pre-purchase veterinary inspection
Even if a horse feels good, a veterinary pre-purchase inspection is essential. Have this done by a recognized equine clinic, not just by the seller's party. The inspection examines health, movement, and any X-rays.
At Avante Sporthorses, we arrange the appointment with the clinic. The inspection report and images go directly to you and your own veterinarian, so you receive an independent opinion.
Step 6: Arrange transport and import directly with the seller
Avante Sporthorses does not arrange transport, import, export, customs documents, or quarantine itself. We connect you with the seller; the subsequent process — such as transport to Germany, the USA, or Dubai — should be discussed directly with the seller and their transporter.
For destinations outside the EU, you often need a passport, vaccinations, CITES, and sometimes a blood test. Inquire about this well in advance.
Summary: your checklist
- —[ ] Budget, discipline, level, and height determined
- —[ ] Offerings viewed or sourcing service engaged
- —[ ] Videos, studbook, and results received
- —[ ] Trial ride or viewing planned
- —[ ] Independent pre-purchase inspection conducted
- —[ ] Transport and import coordinated directly with seller
Want to know more?
Would you like personal assistance in finding a suitable horse in the Netherlands? Contact us or request a sourcing service.
