Should I buy a horse from a dealer or privately?

I’m looking to buy a horse.  Am I better protected if I buy a horse from a dealer rather than through a private advert?

If you purchase a the horse from a dealer there are implied rules which govern the sale including terms that the horse must be as described (whether by the dealer in verbally to you or in any advert) and that the horse must be fit for the purpose for which it was sold.

If you buy privately your statutory rights of redress are more limited.  The burden is on you to ask the right questions and make all due enquiries about the suitability of the horse for your needs.  In other words it’s ‘buyer beware’. A private seller does not have to disclose any behavioural problems so it’s up to you to ask the right questions.