New Horse/ First Horse

[Pitdog]

Just got a Halflinger from the Amish. He is a good sized horse, which is what it is going to take to haul me around. Everyone tells me he looks more Belgian than anything, but I don't have a clue because I am not a horse person, per se.
I always wanted one, now I got one. He is supposedly only 3 years old, and daggone sure looks like a baby in the face, has never been ridden but supposedly has pulled before.
Does anyone know anything about these horses, and where I can find gear for them, i.e. saddles and pulling harnesses for GOOD prices?

[wr]

I would think someone in the US would be better able to help you find the tack you need but I would remind you that not all tack is created equal. I'm a purist so I won't use anything other than leather but that does require proper care. As a beginner, you may want to explore the synthetics. You will want to learn proper fit for a saddle and if you don't have a nice fit, your problems can range from moderate to severe damage and behavioral problems. Learn what the underneath of a saddle should look like and tour some saddle shops and gain an education. Used tack may be good or not so good so learn what a broken tree looks like and avoid them like the plague. I use an australian saddle and there is little fitting required but they aren't for everybody. Harness is also a varied topic but you may want to talk to the previous owner to find out what type of harness they were using and see if they can help you a bit with driving. It is an art form and not nearly as simple as it looks and does take a certain amount of practice before you're a skilled driver.

[Pitdog]

Yes, the saddle thing is going to be tricky with him, as his rump sits higher than his shoulder. I have sat on an Australian saddle, and like them very much, they make me very comfortable and I feel as though I have better control.
Pulling things will come later, and driving cart/wagon I know will take a lot of skill, but I want it, so it will happen.

[livesalone]

Pitdog- His rump is higher than his shoulder because he's still growing. He will catch up in front then grow behind again and catch up again, over and over until he reaches his adult height. This can be up to age 6 in some breeds until totally filled out. You may be able to find a synthetic saddle with an adjustable tree (try Wintec) to fit him. Adjustment will have to be made often to fit as he's growing. Check local tack shops or breeders or trainers to help you with the saddle fit. If it doesn't fit properly you could cause all kinds of behavior problems. Good Luck, livesalone