They are one big pet!!! As an owner of 5, they are expensive and high maintence. So make sure you know exactly what you are getting into before you go investing!!!
Although they are a pleasure to ride and just get lost in your thoughts on. I don't know what I would do with out my gelding Dakota, I have had him since I was 13, he was a rescue from a sale barn...Sad shape, just had to buy and fix him. Had to cut the halter out of the bone on his face, serious wormer, corrective shoeing for five yrs do to insufficient food source from previous owner so he would cross his ankles when he walked until his ankles bled. He had to wear booties for a long time to shield that from happening...
After all this, he was made into a barrel racing horse and I took him to local shows and he won High Point Trophy 3 yrs in a row...He is my baby, and when I just need to relax he is my go to guy, Mr. Dependable!!!!
Have fun, good luck!