Can I feed my horse apples and carrots as treats?

Yes, apples and carrots are safe and healthy treats for most horses. Always slice them into small pieces to prevent choking, and avoid feeding too many due to natural sugar content. Wash them thoroughly and remove any seeds from apples.

Are there any treats I should avoid giving my horse?

Avoid chocolate, caffeine, onions, garlic, avocado, and anything with artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Also steer clear of moldy or spoiled foods. Stick to treats specifically formulated for horses or vet-approved fruits and vegetables.

How many treats can I give my horse per day?

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your horse's daily diet. For an average 1,000-pound horse, that's about 1-2 cups of treats total per day. Adjust based on treat size and your horse's activity level and health.

Can treats help with training?

Absolutely. Small, low-calorie treats can be effective positive reinforcement during training. Use them sparingly and pair with verbal praise. Soft treats are ideal because they are quick to consume and keep your horse focused.

How to Choose the Right Horse Treats

Introduction

As a horse owner, you want to reward your equine partner with treats that are both delicious and safe. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose? Whether you’re training, bonding, or just saying thank you, the right treat can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through what to look for, the top types to consider, and common pitfalls to avoid.

What to Look For

When selecting horse treats, focus on these key factors:

Ingredients: Look for natural, whole-food ingredients like oats, barley, molasses, apples, carrots, and flaxseed. Avoid artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Sugar Content: Many treats are high in sugar, which can lead to obesity, laminitis, or metabolic issues. Opt for low-sugar or sugar-free options, especially for easy keepers or horses with insulin resistance.
Size and Texture: Treats should be small enough to chew easily and not pose a choking hazard. Avoid hard treats that could break teeth.
Allergens and Sensitivities: Some horses may have allergies to grains, soy, or molasses. Choose treats with limited ingredients if your horse has known sensitivities.
Nutritional Value: While treats are not a meal replacement, some offer added vitamins, minerals, or probiotics. Consider treats that support joint health, digestion, or coat condition.
Palatability: Horses have preferences too. Some love peppermint, others prefer apple or carrot flavors. Start with a small batch to test your horse’s taste.

Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new treats, especially if your horse has health conditions like laminitis, PPID (Cushing’s disease), or metabolic syndrome.

Top Types to Consider

1. Crunchy Cookies and Biscuits

These are classic horse treats, often made from grains, molasses, and flavors like apple or carrot. They are convenient and come in resealable bags.

Pros:
– Widely available and affordable.
– Easy to portion for training rewards.
– Many are fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Example: Look for brands with simple ingredient lists like “Whole Oats, Cane Molasses, Apples” with no artificial additives.

2. Soft and Chewy Treats

These have a softer texture, making them ideal for older horses or those with dental issues. They often contain ingredients like alfalfa, molasses, and natural flavors.

Pros:
– Gentle on teeth and easy to chew.
– Often lower in sugar than crunchy cookies.
– Great for horses that are picky eaters.

3. Fruit and Vegetable-Based Treats

Dehydrated or freeze-dried fruits and vegetables (like apples, carrots, bananas, or sweet potatoes) are a healthy, single-ingredient option.

Pros:
– Minimal processing and no added sugars or preservatives.
– High in natural vitamins and fiber.
– Low-calorie option for horses on a diet.

4. Herbal and Functional Treats

These treats incorporate herbs, spices, or supplements for specific benefits, such as calming (chamomile, valerian), joint support (glucosamine, MSM), or digestive health (probiotics, prebiotics).

Pros:
– Targeted health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
– Often made with natural ingredients.
– Can be used as part of a holistic wellness routine.

How to Choose

Start by evaluating your horse’s specific needs:

For training: Small, low-calorie treats that can be given frequently without overfeeding. Soft treats are quick to eat and easy to handle.
For health: Opt for low-sugar, high-fiber options like vegetable-based treats. If your horse needs joint support, consider functional treats with glucosamine.
For dental health: Choose soft or crushable treats to avoid dental damage. Avoid large, hard biscuits.
For picky eaters: Try a variety pack to discover your horse’s favorite flavor. Stick with natural flavors that horses find naturally appealing.

Always introduce new treats gradually to avoid digestive upset. Offer one or two treats per day at most, depending on their size. You can check the current price on Amazon for a wide selection of horse treats to compare options easily.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfeeding treats: Treats should account for no more than 10% of your horse’s daily diet. Too many can cause weight gain and digestive issues.
Choosing high-sugar treats: Many commercial treats are loaded with molasses or sugar. Read labels and avoid treats where sugar is the first ingredient.
Ignoring your horse’s health conditions: A treat that’s fine for a healthy horse might be dangerous for one with laminitis or insulin resistance. Always check with your vet.
Using human food: While some human foods like apples and carrots are safe, others (chocolate, onions, garlic) are toxic. Stick to specifically designed horse treats or veterinarian-approved fruits and vegetables.
Not considering size and texture: Large or hard treats can cause choking or dental fractures. Always supervise your horse when feeding treats.

Bottom Line

The best horse treat is one that your horse loves, fits their dietary needs, and is made from wholesome ingredients. Prioritize low-sugar, natural options and always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure. Whether you choose crunchy cookies, soft chews, or single-ingredient fruits, the key is moderation. Happy treating!

Check current prices on Amazon

Sources

AKC
ASPCA