Horse treats and horse biscuits are small titbits you give by hand, as a reward or simply as an extra. In this collection, these are the handmade apple horse biscuits and the Sweet Blocks from Excellent Horse, apple or banana treats from another well-known brand and, in the winter months, the Christmas biscuits with apple.
Biscuit, treat or block?
A biscuit is baked and somewhat larger; you can easily break it into pieces. A treat or block is small and compact, and therefore handy if you reward often during a training session. If you want to limit grain, choose grain-free apple treats or a grain-free Sweet Block. For most horses, the taste matters less than the smell; try a small pack before buying a large one.
How much is enough?
Treats usually contain sugar or starch, even if it comes from fruit. Stick to the amount stated on the pack and include them in the ration. For horses that need to lose weight or are prone to laminitis, first check with your vet whether an occasional treat fits and which one. Read the label for this: the composition is stated per product.
Storing and taking along
Store biscuits dry and tightly closed, preferably in a tub with a lid. Moisture makes them soft and mice soon find them. For a competition or hack, take a few in a small bag, not the whole pack.
These treats are part of horse treats and rewards, where you will also find tips on rewarding without encouraging begging. Looking for something to keep your horse busy for longer? See toys against boredom; for targeted supplementing, see supplements.
Frequently asked questions
Are horse biscuits healthy for my horse?
They are treats, not feed. Given in moderation, they fit into a normal ration; for a horse on a diet, ask your vet.
Can ponies have horse treats too?
Yes, but give smaller portions. Ponies gain weight easily, so count every treat.
How long do horse biscuits keep?
Check the best-before date on the pack and store them dry and closed; then they keep the longest.