The Horse‘s bloggers had a busy year, and they’re gearing up to share more thoughts, insights, and information with readers in 2017. But before we move forward, we’ve taken a look back to tally the most viewed blog posts in 2016. Be sure to share your thoughts about the following blogs’ in their comment sections, and check back often for new discussions in the new year.

Horses and the Law: Read This Before You Buy Your First Horse
Too many first-time horse owners select a horse that isn’t right for them. Eventually, they get frustrated and give up on horses altogether. Don’t make mistakes when shopping for a horse. Blogger Rachel Kosmal McCart put together this guide to buying your first horse.

Horses and the Law: Rules of the Road
Attorney Milt Toby’s “highly unscientific … survey showed that many states have specific rules of the road governing the conduct of horses, drivers of horse-drawn buggies, and automobiles.” Everyone should know these laws, he says, whether riding a horse, driving a horse-drawn buggy, or sitting behind the wheel of an automobile or truck.

Old Horses; Better With Age: What is ‘Old’ for a Horse?
Over the years news editor Erica Larson has cared for dozens of "old" horses, and one of the most interesting things to me has always been how differently individual horses age, and how some horses truly appear "old" at a much younger age than others