How To Choose The Right Feed & Supplements For Your Horse

One of the most common questions I get at Crockleford Stud is: “What should I be feeding my horse?” There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — but there are simple rules that make choosing much easier.

Start With Forage First

Hay or haylage should always make up the majority of your horse’s diet — at least 1.5%–2% of their body weight every day. It’s good for digestion, mental health and keeps them warm. Hard feed and supplements are additions, not replacements.

Match Feed To Workload & Body Condition

A horse in light work needs very little extra feed beyond good forage. One in regular ridden work or competition will need extra energy and protein. Overfeeding is just as harmful as underfeeding — excess energy leads to weight gain, laminitis risk and fizzy behaviour.

When To Use Supplements

Supplements are for filling gaps, not replacing good feed. Common ones include:

•⁠ ⁠Joint supplements — for older horses or those in regular work

•⁠ ⁠Electrolytes — after heavy sweating or hot weather

•⁠ ⁠Vitamin/mineral balancers — if your forage is low in nutrients

•⁠ ⁠Conditioners — for poor doers or winter weight maintenance

Things To Avoid

Don’t mix too many different supplements — you can end up overdoing certain vitamins or minerals. Always check with your vet or nutritionist before adding several products at once, and never guess quantities.
We’ve tested many different feeds and supplements over the years at Crockleford Stud. Below are the brands and products we trust and use ourselves.