Module 2

Low vs. High Value: Unlocking the Power of the

Perfect Snack


Choosing Treats

It’s time to talk about what to use as treats, the fun part of training that can also be a little tricky if we’re not careful. The goal here is to choose treats that are healthy, easy to handle, and supportive of our conversations with the horse (instead of turning them into a nippy monster).

Not all treats work the same way for every horse, and a lot depends on how “food-motivated” they are. Think of it as finding the right balance of flavor and excitement so your horse stays interested—but not too interested.


  • Low-Value Treats:These are your simpler, less sweet options—like plain hay pellets. They’re great if your horse will happily munch anything you offer. Low-value treats can also be a good choice if you notice your horse starts getting pushy after a few sessions of something tastier.
  • High-Value Treats:If your horse is more on the picky side or easily bored by bland snacks, you might need a yummier reward—like a special low-sugar herbal treat or a small piece of carrot or apple if that’s allowed. These are super motivating, but keep an eye on your horse’s behavior; sometimes extra delicious treats can make them overexcited or nippy.

    • It’s important to notice which treats your horse likes best, which ones they’re just “meh” about, and which ones they spit out (hey, some horses are surprisingly picky!). Adjust accordingly. If at any point your horse becomes overly eager—leaning in, mugging, or forgetting their manners—try dialing back to a lower-value treat.

    This simple swap can help keep your training sessions calm and focused, rather than turning them into a feeding frenzy. And remember, as long as you’re consistent with how and when you reward, even a humble hay pellet can be surprisingly effective in motivating your horse to pay attention and stay polite.©


    Mary Kay Hasseman
    Copyright 2025
    All Rights Reserved

     Next Lesson
    {"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}