How to Choose the Right Enrichment for Your Horse

Start with the Basics

When selecting an enrichment, the goal is regular and active use. To make the most of it, choose something practical for your daily routine. There are many options available, so take the time to find what works best for you and your horse.

An easy-to-use enrichment is more likely to become part of your everyday routine. If preparing or setting it up takes too much time, you may find yourself using it less frequently.

Think from Your Horse’s Perspective

The ideal enrichment should meet your horse’s needs and fit their environment. Consider these factors:

• Safety: Ensure the enrichment is safe to use of a horse
• Difficulty Level: Choose a challenge that keeps your horse engaged without causing frustration.
• Engagement Time: How long will your horse interact with it?
• Durability: Is it a single-use item or something reusable?
• Portability: Can you move it around, or is it installed permanently?

Take our Fluffy Feeder as an example:

• Made from soft, tooth-friendly materials that won’t cause injuries.
• Different difficulty levels available to suit your horse’s skill level.
• Provides 1–2 hours of engaging activity.
• Built from high-quality materials for long-term use.
• Can be used in different locations and even taken along when traveling.

Consider Your Perspective

Let’s be honest: enrichments that are hard to use or maintain often end up collecting dust in the back of the cupboard. For seamless integration into your routine, look for:

• Ease of Use: Simple to set up and operate.
• Low Maintenance: Easy to clean and care for.
• Repairability: Durable but fixable if needed.
• Storage: Compact or easy to store when not in use.
• Role of the Handler: Decide whether you’ll actively participate or let your horse work independently.

Ease of use ensures you’ll actually use the enrichment item, helping to keep your horse engaged and happy.

Why Enrichment Matters

Horses adapt quickly to their surroundings. Even a large paddock loses its novelty within weeks, reducing its enrichment value. If your horse spends nights in a stall, they may get bored—even if they have free access to hay.

Continuous enrichment is essential for keeping your horse mentally stimulated. The benefits are clear: a well-enriched horse becomes more curious, confident, and trusting.

Incorporating enrichment into your horse’s daily life isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity for their mental health and overall happiness. By choosing the right enrichment, you’re investing in their well-being and strengthening your bond.