Ever notice how your horse suddenly discovers you have pockets the minute you step into the barn? It’s no coincidence—especially if they’ve snagged a treat from there before! Learning how to store and grab your treats quickly (without turning yourself into a walking vending machine) can make a big difference in stopping mugging.
Why Stuffing Treats in Your Pockets Isn’t Ideal
- Rummaging Time: You spend extra seconds digging around for that treat, which throws off your timing and can accidentally reward the horse at the wrong moment.
- Limited Space: Most pockets only hold so many treats before they spill out or you end up with crumbs galore.
- Tempting Target: Horses who’ve been mugging know all about pockets. They’ll start nudging and nosing at them, thinking a snack might pop out.
Budget-Friendly Options: Apron or Waist Pouch
- Apron with Big Pockets: A simple kitchen apron can be a cheap fix. You’ll have roomy pockets in front, but keep in mind you may still find yourself rummaging if the pockets aren’t organized.
- Small Pouch at Your Waist: If you already have a belt bag or fanny pack, you can stash treats in there. As needed, you can wear it off to the side or behind you so it’s not right under your horse’s nose.
When it comes to treat pouches, there's no one-size-fits- all. It's all about what works best for you and your horse together. From a variety of styles designed specifically for horses to some surprisingly effective dog treat pouches, there's plenty to explore.
You can take a peek at places like Amazon and Etsy for inspiration and ideas to find the perfect fit that makes your routine both fun and functional.
A dedicated treat pouch—like the Terry Ryan Treat Pouch™—is often the best bet (it's been my favorite so far). It has a super-strong hinge that snaps open and closed with a quick push, so you can:
Why This Matters for Polite Treat Taking
Quick, consistent treat delivery is a big part of training your horse not to mug. If you’re fiddling around in your pockets or the horse can see and smell an open stash of treats, that’s an invitation for them to come investigate. A closed, easy-access pouch keeps the “candy store” out of sight, and your hands free to cue and reward at precisely the right time.
It might sound like a small detail, but changing where and how you carry treats can really tighten up your training sessions. You’ll be able to mark with a “click” or “yes” and deliver a treat smoothly, reinforcing exactly the behavior you want—without giving your horse any extra chances to practice mugging.
© Mary Kay Hasseman
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