Equine enrichment is for all horses and their people. Whether you’re taking care of horses for the first time or have been an equestrian for decades, your horse will benefit from items and activities that encourage their natural behaviors. Click on each heading for more information as you begin your equine enrichment journey.
WHAT IS HORSE ENRICHMENT?
Enrichment is anything you do or provide that encourages your horse’s natural behaviors. Enrichment for horses improves their health, relieves stress, and prevents boredom. It’s a big concept, including everything from fun toys to how you design your pastures and stalls.
An enriched life for horses means that they have the the opportunity to behave like horses – eating, moving, socializing, and problem solving in horse-specific ways every day. Equine enrichment provides the stimulation and behavioral wellness that domesticated horses need while living alongside people.
Enrichment means giving your horse the right space, equipment, and routine to ensure that they get enough stimulation and can behave appropriately. You might use slow feeders or puzzles as enrichment, create an enriched pasture, or plan a full routine of toys and boredom relief for a horse on stall rest.
HORSES NEED ENRICHMENT
Equine enrichment is a fundamental part of horse care. Just like you’re careful to design a good diet and vet care plan for your horse, making sure your horse has enrichment in their life is crucial for good welfare. Horses who live enriched lives are happier and healthier.
Toys, puzzles, DIY pasture projects, and special activities aren’t just fun and games. They keep your horse occupied and engaged, resilient in times of stress, and strengthen your relationship. Enrichment often helps anxious horses or equines with behavior problems. It can also prevent issues from developing in the first place, by giving your horse a positive outlet for their natural behaviors.
Enrichment is good for every horse, and offers so many benefits. It’s worth the little bit of extra time in your day at the stable.
SAFE EQUINE ENRICHMENT
Enrichment for horses is important for their health and welfare. But it’s also important to be safe when giving your horse toys or planning a better, healthier pasture or stall.
When purchasing a new stall toy, planning a pasture project, or working on a DIY item, always keep safety in mind. Take it slow when introducing new enrichment and observe your horse carefully to make sure they use the equipment safely. When in doubt, ask a veterinarian before adding new foods, treats, or toys to your horse’s routine.
HOW TO GET STARTED
If you’re new to horse toys and other equine enrichment, browse the Enrichment Ideas pages for inspiration. We have collections of enrichment articles and info for any equestrian, horse, or budget.
If you want to use enrichment as part of a plan to address a behavior or welfare issue, the Behavior and Training pages are a great resource. You’ll find articles on equine behavior, how to improve your horse’s wellbeing, and horse training content.
Most importantly, remember that it’s okay to start small. Your horse will benefit from all enrichment! Start with a few easy toys and activities and watch how much your horse enjoys them.