I agree with most people when you say gelding. Berry was my first horse, a gelding. Although I do disagree with the the older than 10 yrs. statement. Berry was five when I bought him. Now he's 11. Mares are great too, though. That is true that they do get moody but my experiences tell me that that is while in heat. I am not saying that your opinions are incorrect, just I disagree. Of course, I've only owned one mare. What do I know? I say that if you really connect with a safe horse that you know would serve you for a long time (and this is important) be able to do what you will want to do in __ years! It's really a drag when you buy a pony as a beginner, then you turn 18 and you want to jump and you have a shetland pony! Good luck!