Can I give my horse treats every day?

Yes, in moderation. Treats should not exceed 10% of your horse's daily calorie intake. Choose low-sugar options and space them out to avoid digestive upset.

Are peppermint treats safe for all horses?

Generally yes, but avoid giving large amounts to horses prone to colic or with sugar sensitivities. Opt for treats with real peppermint oil and no added sugar.

What treats are best for horses with laminitis?

Look for treats that are low in sugar and starch, such as plain hay cubes, dehydrated vegetable chips, or herbal treats without molasses. Always consult your vet first.

How should I store premium horse treats?

Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Some treats like dehydrated fruits may need to be used within a few weeks once opened.

Are premium horse treats healthier?

They tend to use natural high-fibre ingredients and lower sugar, which suits weight-prone and metabolic horses better than sweet cereal-based treats.

Can treats make a horse nippy?

They can if hand-fed too freely, since some horses get pushy, so feed small amounts, reward calm behaviour, and consider feeding from a bucket.

Best Premium Horse Treats Worth the Money

Introduction

Every horse owner knows that a well-timed treat can strengthen your bond, reward hard work, or simply bring a smile to your horse’s face. But with so many options on the market, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Premium horse treats promise better ingredients, more flavor, and healthier choices, but are they really worth the extra cost? In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for in a high-quality treat, explore the top types to consider, and help you choose the best options for your equine friend. Always remember to consult your veterinarian before introducing new treats, especially if your horse has dietary restrictions or health issues.

What to Look For

When shopping for premium horse treats, focus on these key factors: ingredient quality (whole foods like oats, apples, carrots over fillers), no added sugars or artificial preservatives, digestibility (avoid corn, soy, or molasses-heavy treats), and size (easy to chew/swallow). Look for treats that are low in starch and sugar to avoid colic or laminitis risks. Certifications like non-GMO or organic can be a plus, but always read the label. A great test: if you wouldn’t eat it, don’t feed it to your horse.

Top Types to Consider

1. Natural Fruit and Vegetable Treats

Dehydrated apple slices, carrot chips, or banana chunks are single-ingredient, healthy, and highly palatable. They’re free from preservatives and often sourced from farms. Pros: low sugar, high fiber, easy to break into smaller pieces for training. Look for brands that air-dry rather than bake to retain nutrients.

2. Herbal Wellness Treats

Infused with calming herbs like chamomile, peppermint, or echinacea, these treats support digestion, immunity, or relaxation. Pros: functional benefits beyond flavor; great for nervous or senior horses. Opt for those with minimal fillers and clear labeling of active ingredients.

3. Peppermint Licks or Cubes

Hardened peppermint candies or compressed cubes are long-lasting and a classic favorite. Pros: perfect for stall games or slow rewards; helps with breath freshness. Choose ones made with real peppermint oil and no artificial colors.

4. Alfalfa-Based Nuggets

Alfalfa cubes or pellets fortified with vitamins and minerals offer a crunchy, nutrient-dense treat. Pros: high protein and calcium for active horses; can double as a supplement. Ensure they’re free from molasses or binding agents.

How to Choose

Start with your horse’s specific needs: if they’re prone to weight gain, opt for low-sugar treats like plain hay cubes or veggie chips. For senior horses with dental issues, soft or rehydratable treats are better. Consider the purpose: training rewards should be small and quick to eat (like dehydrated carrot bits), while wellness treats can be larger. Always introduce new treats gradually, one at a time, to monitor for allergies or digestive upset. And remember: treats should never exceed 10% of daily calorie intake. To check the current price on Amazon, search for the specific product name to find the best deal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfeeding treats: Even healthy treats can cause colic if given in excess.
Ignoring ingredient labels: Sneaky ingredients like corn syrup, soy, or artificial flavors can harm digestion.
Using treats as meal replacements: They are supplements, not substitutes for balanced feed.
Choosing based on price alone: Cheap treats often contain fillers; premium doesn’t always mean expensive, but always check the first few ingredients.
Not consulting your vet: Especially for horses with metabolic issues, laminitis, or allergies.

Bottom Line

Premium horse treats are a worthwhile investment when they prioritize whole-food ingredients, serve a purpose (training, wellness, or bonding), and fit your horse’s dietary profile. Skip the hype and focus on what’s inside the bag: real fruits, herbs, or grains without unnecessary additives. A handful of quality treats can make your horse’s day while keeping them healthy, just remember to check in with your vet and always read the label. Your horse will thank you with a nudge and a nicker.

Check current prices on Amazon

Sources

AKC
ASPCA

What you need to know

Premium horse treats are worth it when they reward training without upsetting the diet. Better treats lean on natural, high-fibre ingredients and keep sugar low, which matters because many horses are prone to weight gain and metabolic issues. A quality forage-based or herb treat lets you reward generously during groundwork or loading practice without the sugar spikes that come from sweet, cereal-heavy options.

Read the ingredients and watch the sugar and starch, especially for laminitis-prone or overweight horses. Break treats small so frequent rewards do not add up to a meal, and never feed treats that could cause choke. Some horses get pushy or nippy if hand-fed too freely, so feeding from a bucket can help manners. For horses with insulin issues or laminitis history, check suitable treats with your vet first.