I like to think of dressage as being simply basic 'training' (as the word means) and is nessasary for every horse and rider. But I'm biased! Basic dressage can be done in any tack (i've seen some pull it off in a western saddle...difficult, but not impossible). Good for you to be looking into the switch. Dressage is hard work but will pay off, even if you decide you prefer hunter style. Definitely find a coach, and get ready to learn!

In Perth, Australia, there is a business that does 'saddle hire' where you can rent a saddle for anywhere from a day, to a few months. Maybe they have it in your country?

I wouldnt worry about purchasing a dressage saddle until you're getting ready to start competing. You should be able to do most BASIC dressage training in a close contact... Unless your horse is far enough along :) And stay away from Bates dressages saddles too... they're better for hacking as opposed to dressage!

I had a Bates Caprilli Dressage and it was useless. Fit Lorenzo well however it did NOTHING for my position. No knee rolls whatsoever - flat as, basically.

I purchase it for $1500+ i think, sold it to a hack rider for $600 after a year. Now I have a Jessica Trainer which is AMAZING. Its like sitting in an armchair.

thanks for all the great advice! Especially on the saddles. My horse is very collected and can side pass and I had a dressage rider sit him once and got a few two tempis out of hime with not much effort. So I am thinking he has definitely had some training, I just need it now!

I'd definitely say that is some training!
Again, good for you to make the switch and venture into unknown waters.
Spirithorse- isn't it funny that the horse gets fitted before we do ?!?!? ba ha ha ha ha

If you decide you want to change to doing a lot of dressage, a dressage saddle will definitely help with your leg positioning. Find one that fits you and your horse like a glove. My best advice is to try out a ton of saddles til you find a few that are definitely your favorites. Every style is a bit different and will fit you differently. If your not sure how it should fit you, work with a knowledgeable trainer or a saddle fitter. I'm partial to Passier, County, & Kieffer.

Just wanted to let everyone know that I did find a great dressage saddle that fit both of us! I love, love, love this saddle! Quite different from my close contact and I feel much more stable and secure not riding the postage stamp I used to! And I also found a great trainer! I am hoping to do our first show, Introductory Level, in March! Thanks for all of the great advice!