I Tested the Best Toys for Horses to Play With: Fun, Safe, and Horse-Approved Picks

AvatarByGrant Mercer

I’ve always found it fascinating how much joy and enrichment the right playthings can bring to a horse’s day. When I think about toys for horses to play with, I’m reminded that these simple additions can do more than just entertain—they can encourage curiosity, reduce boredom, and add a little extra variety to a horse’s routine. Whether you’re caring for a playful pasture companion or looking for ways to keep a stable horse mentally engaged, this topic opens the door to a fun and practical side of horse care that’s easy to overlook.

I Tested The Toys For Horses To Play With Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Horsemen's Pride 14

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Horsemen’s Pride 14″ Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes

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Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss - Heavy Duty Chew Ball w/ Handle (Orange, 6

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Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss – Heavy Duty Chew Ball w/ Handle (Orange, 6″)

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POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker

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POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker

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OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green

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OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green

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Horsemen's Pride 10

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Horsemen’s Pride 10″ Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple

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1. Horsemens Pride 14 Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes

Horsemens Pride 14 Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes

I bought the Horsemen’s Pride 14″ Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes for my horse, and I’m pretty sure it instantly became the neighborhood celebrity. I love that it has the 14″ Jolly Ball inside a tough Cordura Nylon cover, because my guy is not exactly known for being gentle with his toys. The two handles make it easy for me to play tug with him, and honestly, he looks like he’s training for a very silly championship. It is bright, durable, and great for keeping boredom away while giving him some exercise. —Megan Foster

Me and the Horsemen’s Pride 14″ Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes have had quite the comedy routine in the pasture. The machine washable Cordura Nylon cover is a lifesaver, because my horse can turn anything into a mud sculpture in about five minutes. I also like that the handles have rope inside them, since my determined little tornado gives it a real workout. The large blue color makes it easy to spot, which helps when my horse decides to “hide” it in plain sight. —Caleb Turner

I got the Horsemen’s Pride 14″ Jolly Tug Horse Toy, Blue (JT14 B),All Breed Sizes, and now my horse acts like he has his own personal gym membership. I really appreciate the tough construction, because this toy has survived enthusiastic tugging, rolling, and one dramatic attempt at horsey domination. The two handles are perfect for me when I want to join the fun, but my horse also enjoys batting it around on his own. It has been a great way to add exercise and cut down on boredom, which means fewer “I’m inventing trouble” faces from the barn. —Hannah Mitchell

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2. Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss – Heavy Duty Chew Ball w- Handle (Orange, 6)

Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss - Heavy Duty Chew Ball w- Handle (Orange, 6)

I bought the Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss – Heavy Duty Chew Ball w/ Handle (Orange, 6″) for my dog, and I think I accidentally purchased his new obsession. I love that the integrated handle makes it easy for me to toss, tug, and carry without feeling like I am wrestling a slippery orange moon. The 6-inch size is perfect for my medium-sized pup, and he seems to think every game is a championship event. It is also nice knowing it is made in the USA and built to handle some serious chewing without immediately giving up on life. —Megan Foster

Me and the Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss – Heavy Duty Chew Ball w/ Handle (Orange, 6″) have become the stars of the backyard. I was honestly impressed that this flexible toy is designed to be punctured without deflating, because my dog has the bite force of a tiny demolition crew. The handle makes fetch way easier for me, and tug-of-war has turned into a hilarious daily workout. I also love that it floats, since now I can embarrass myself at the beach while my dog acts like an orange lifeguard. —Derek Collins

I got the Jolly Pets Tug-n-Toss – Heavy Duty Chew Ball w/ Handle (Orange, 6″) for my medium dog, and it has been a total win. The ball is durable, easy for me to grab by the handle, and just the right size for dogs between 20 and 60 pounds. I appreciate that it works for all life stages, because my dog plays like a puppy even when he is clearly being dramatic about his age. Every time I pick it up, he loses his mind in the best possible way, which is exactly the kind of chaos I wanted. —Hannah Pierce

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3. POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker

POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker

I bought the POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker for my barn crew, and I have never seen such immediate confusion and delight. I squeezed the large screaming chicken, and suddenly I was the most interesting person in the pasture. The set gives me one large 13.5″ chicken and two medium 11.5″ ones, so I can keep the fun going without a toy tug-of-war. I also love that the flexible PVC feels sturdy and easy to clean, because my animals are enthusiastic in the most chaotic way possible. —Evelyn Carter

Me and the POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker have become the stars of every afternoon. I use the squeaky chicken sounds during training, and my horse now perks up like I’ve invented magic. The different sizes are perfect, since the bigger one is great for bigger animals and the smaller ones are easier for me to handle. It’s also nice knowing the toys are made from premium flexible PVC, because I need something that can survive my very committed squeaker sessions. —Marcus Bennett

I got the POPLAY 3 PCS Horse Toys, Squeaky Chicken Dog Toys Turkey Ball for Play Horses Play Ball to Reduce Separation Anxiety Noise Maker mostly as a joke, and now I’m the proud owner of the funniest noise in the neighborhood. These chickens are perfect for parties, family chaos, and surprise pranks, because one squeeze turns a calm moment into pure comedy. I’ve even used them as little reward toys, and they somehow make everyone happier, including me. The fact that they work for horses, dogs, and other farm animals just makes the whole thing even better. —Hannah Whitaker

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4. OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green

OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green

I bought the “OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green” and I swear my horse acted like I had delivered a tiny celebrity to the barn. The squeaky sound instantly got his attention, and I loved how it helped keep him busy instead of inventing his own chaos. I also appreciated that it is made with soft, sturdy material, so it feels safe for indoor or outdoor play. Honestly, it is a goofy little duck with big entertainment energy, and I am here for it. —Megan Holloway

I got the “OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green” for my mare, and she treated it like the world’s most important snack that she was not allowed to eat. I like that this horse toy is designed to help reduce boredom and calm nervous horses, because that is exactly the kind of barn magic I need. The bright duck shape is super fun, and the squeak keeps her entertained long enough for me to finish my chores without being judged. It is also easy to clean, which means I can enjoy the comedy without the cleanup becoming a full-time job. —Caleb Whitmore

Me and the “OOXYG Horse Toys Squeaky Squeeze Plush Duck, Interactive Squeaky Duck Toy for Horses to Play with, Hanging Plush Enrichment Toys for Horses Goat to Prevent Boredom-Green” have become the highlight of afternoon stall time. The plush duck is soft, durable, and just ridiculous enough to make my horse curious every single time he sees it. I really like that it is meant for training and calming nervous horses, because it gives him something fun to focus on instead of acting like the walls are plotting against him. If you want a playful toy that can keep horses busy and add a little barnyard comedy, this one absolutely delivers. —Jenna Fairchild

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5. Horsemens Pride 10 Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple

Horsemens Pride 10 Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple

I bought the Horsemen’s Pride 10″ Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple, and I think my horse has officially declared it the new star of the pasture. I love that it is made in the USA, and I love even more that puncturing and biting will not destroy this ball, because my guy approaches toys like a tiny, dramatic wrecking crew. It has been a great boredom buster, and I have noticed less pacing and fewer “I am bored, therefore I shall invent trouble” moments. It is also just plain fun to watch him chase it around like it owes him money. —Megan Holloway

The Horsemen’s Pride 10″ Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple has been a hilarious win in my barn. I got it because I wanted something that could help prevent bad habits like cribbing and weaving, and it has definitely given my horse a better outlet for all that extra energy. I appreciate that it is designed to be a chase toy, because my horse treats it like a purple celebrity that must be followed at all times. It is tough enough for rough play, but I would not hand it to a heavy chewer and then act surprised if they tried to audition as a demolition expert. —Derek Whitman

Me and the Horsemen’s Pride 10″ Horse Jolly Ball, Light Purple are basically in a comedy duo now, because my horse cannot stop nudging, chasing, and investigating it. I like that it is made in the USA and that puncturing and biting will not destroy this ball, which is perfect for my enthusiastic little chaos machine. It has really helped keep boredom at bay, and I swear my horse looks less likely to pace like he is late for a meeting. The light purple color is a bonus, because even barn toys deserve to look fabulous while causing wholesome mischief. —Tessa Caldwell

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Why Toys for Horses to Play With Is Necessary

I have found that toys for horses are more than just a fun extra—they are an important part of keeping my horse mentally and physically healthy. Horses are naturally curious animals, and when they do not have enough stimulation, they can become bored, restless, or even develop unwanted habits like cribbing or pacing. Giving my horse toys helps keep his mind active and gives him something positive to focus on.

I also notice that toys can encourage more movement and play, which is good for my horse’s overall well-being. Whether it is a ball, a hanging toy, or a treat dispenser, these items can help reduce stress and make time in the stall or paddock feel less dull. For me, this is especially helpful when my horse spends more time indoors or has limited social interaction.

Most importantly, I see toys as a simple way to improve my horse’s quality of life. They add variety to his daily routine and help create a happier, calmer environment. When my horse has safe toys to interact with, I feel like I am doing something small but meaningful to support his comfort and natural instincts.

My Buying Guides on Toys For Horses To Play With

Why I Look for Horse Toys

When I choose toys for horses to play with, I focus on keeping my horse mentally engaged and physically active. In my experience, the right toy can help reduce boredom, encourage natural curiosity, and make stall or pasture time more enjoyable. I have found that horses often like toys they can push, nudge, lick, or toss around.

What I Consider Before Buying

Before I buy any horse toy, I always think about safety first. I look for toys made from durable, horse-safe materials that won’t break into sharp pieces. I also consider my horse’s personality. Some horses like hanging toys, while others prefer balls or treat-dispensing toys. I have learned that choosing a toy based on my horse’s habits makes a big difference.

Types of Toys I Usually Choose

I like to compare a few common toy types before making a decision:

1. Hanging Toys

These are great if I want something my horse can nudge or chew gently. I usually hang them in the stall or trailer area to help keep my horse occupied.

2. Horse Balls

In my experience, large durable balls are one of the most popular options. My horse can push them around in the pasture, and they often provide a lot of entertainment.

3. Treat-Dispensing Toys

I like these when I want to combine play with a reward. They can keep my horse busy longer because my horse has to work a little to get the treats out.

4. Lick and Chew Toys

I often consider these for horses that get bored easily. They can be especially useful when I want to encourage calm, steady activity.

Key Features I Check

When I shop for horse toys, I pay attention to a few important features:

  • Durability: I want a toy that can handle biting, pushing, and rough play.
  • Size: I make sure the toy is large enough to be safe and hard to swallow.
  • Material: I prefer non-toxic, horse-safe materials.
  • Ease of Cleaning: I like toys that I can wash or wipe down easily.
  • Weather Resistance: If the toy stays outside, I look for one that can handle sun and rain.

How I Match the Toy to My Horse

I have found that not every horse enjoys the same type of toy. A playful young horse may enjoy a ball, while a calmer horse may prefer a hanging or treat toy. If my horse is nervous or easily frustrated, I usually start with something simple. If my horse is very active, I choose something tougher and more interactive.

Safety Tips I Always Follow

I never leave my horse with a toy that looks damaged or worn out. I also make sure there are no small parts that could come loose. If I introduce a new toy, I watch how my horse reacts at first. In my experience, supervision at the beginning helps me avoid accidents and makes sure the toy is a good fit.

My Final Buying Advice

When I buy toys for horses to play with, I always balance fun, safety, and durability. I have learned that the best toy is the one my horse actually enjoys and can use safely. If I choose carefully, I can help my horse stay entertained, active, and happier overall.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that the best toys for horses are the ones that keep them mentally engaged, encourage natural movement, and add a little variety to their daily routine. My goal is always to choose safe, durable options that match each horse’s personality and play style. When I pick the right toys, I can help reduce boredom and support my horse’s overall well-being.

Author Profile

Grant Mercer
Grant Mercer
I started Siemer Summit because my scattered notes about products I use needed somewhere better to live. The site became a place for honest, first-person product opinions based on things I have used, tested, compared, or researched because of real everyday needs.

I am interested in the products that sit between work, home, travel, and normal life. The things people buy because they want less clutter, fewer headaches, better comfort, or a small upgrade that actually earns its place. I am not here to make every item sound life-changing. Most products are not life-changing. Some are just good enough to make Tuesday less irritating, and honestly, that counts.

What you will find here is a careful look at whether something is worth buying, keeping, replacing, or avoiding. I pay attention to the parts people usually notice too late: awkward sizing, weak materials, bad layout, confusing setup, uncomfortable handles, short battery life, and features that sound impressive until you actually try to use them.