How to Feed a Horse Treats Around Other Horses

If at all possible, it is better not to feed your horse around other horses that aren't also being fed. If the other horse is aggressive and tries to take the food or treat away from your horse, they could end up fighting.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Keep the treat sealed in a zippered bag and in your pocket. It is best to use carrots and apples as treats because they have less scent than most commercial horse treats.

2. Evaluate the relationship between the horses. If the other horse is bigger than your horse and seems to be dominant in the herd, it is not a good idea to feed your horse without feeding the other one.

3. Throw a treat on the ground for the other horse before you give a treat to your horse. This might distract the other horse from noticing what your horse is getting, and it will allow natural pack order to be fulfilled by feeding the dominant horse first.

4. Bend over slightly at the waste when feeding your horse. Keep your body between the two horses with your back to the other horse to prevent the other horse from seeing what you are doing. Be alert and aware of where the other horse is in case she becomes aggressive.

5. Halter the other horse and tie him to the fence if he shows signs of aggression or if you know from past experience that you can't feed your horse with him loose. Release him from the halter after you are done feeding your horse.