If you’ve ever seen a child light up at the sight of a pony, you know just how magical horse toys can be. Whether it’s a plush cuddle buddy, a bouncing ride-on horse, or a musical pony that trots and neighs, horse toys open the gate to imaginative adventures and active play. From toddlers just learning to balance, to preschoolers galloping around the house, there’s a perfect pony for every child.
This guide rounds up some of the most beloved horse-themed toys for kids—each thoroughly reviewed to help you make the best choice. Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, holiday, or a just-because surprise, these toys are sure to bring joy (and maybe a little bit of peace and quiet too).
List of The Best Horse Toys for Kids Reviews:
Terra by Battat – 6 Pcs 6″ Horse Figurines
This beautifully detailed horse toy set by Terra includes six unique and lifelike horses, perfect for little hands and curious imaginations. From the sleek Thoroughbred to the spotted Appaloosa, each figure captures the essence of its breed with remarkable realism. Whether for playtime or a budding collection, these horses add charm and learning to any child’s world.
Key Features
- Includes six distinct horse breeds: Appaloosa, Tinker, Pinto Stallion, Thoroughbred, Arabian Mare, and Tennessee Walking Horse
- Realistic details and breed-specific features
- Each figurine stands on its own, approx. 4.5–6 inches long
- Made from sturdy plastic for active play
- Recommended for kids aged 3 and up
What We Like
- Impressive attention to detail on each figurine
- Stands up well during play and looks great on display
- Durable build, perfect for both indoor and outdoor use
- Encourages imaginative and educational play
- Great size for cake toppers or party decorations
What We Don’t Like
- Limited to six horses with no accessories included
- Slight variation in size may not suit very small playsets
Overall
This set offers an engaging blend of education and fun for kids who love horses. It’s sturdy, beautifully crafted, and delivers quality beyond expectations. A thoughtful gift for young animal lovers or collectors, this toy set invites storytelling and learning in equal measure.
Melissa & Doug Show-Horse Stable Play Set with Wooden Barn and 8 Toy Horses
This charming wooden stable play set by Melissa & Doug features eight beautifully crafted toy horses, each housed in its own stall within a durable, easy-to-carry barn. Designed with young equestrians in mind, it encourages imaginative play and teaches responsibility in a simple, joyful way. The set includes breed information and name tags for a personalized experience that kids absolutely love.
Key Features
- Includes 8 detailed toy horses with unique markings
- Wooden barn-style stable with functional doors and child-safe metal latch
- Comes with a breed guide and writable name tags
- Compact, portable design with carrying handle
- Encourages creative storytelling and roleplay for kids aged 3 and up
What We Like
- Sturdy wooden construction stands up to energetic play
- Horses fit snugly in their stalls, making cleanup easy and fun
- Breed guide adds an educational layer to playtime
- Great for on-the-go entertainment thanks to built-in handle
- Classic design appeals to both kids and parents
What We Don’t Like
- Horses share the same mold shape despite unique coloring
- One or two figures may occasionally need adjusting to stand properly
Overall
Melissa & Doug’s Show-Horse Stable is a delightful toy that blends fun with learning. Its thoughtful design, portable form, and timeless appeal make it a reliable favorite for kids who dream of horses. A heartwarming gift that encourages play with purpose.
HollyHOME 11-Inch Plush Horse Toy
Soft, lovable, and full of personality, the HollyHOME Plush Horse is a delightful companion for any young horse enthusiast. Featuring golden silky hair, a realistic faux leather saddle, and thoughtful grooming accessories, this plush pony bridges the gap between cuddle buddy and pretend-play star. Its charming design and gentle size make it ideal for little arms and big imaginations.
Key Features
- Soft plush horse with lifelike standing pose and realistic saddle
- Includes grooming accessories: brush, pink hair clip, and towel
- Filled with high-quality PP cotton for a cuddly yet structured feel
- Measures 11 inches tall – perfect for carrying or display
- Designed for children aged 3 and older
What We Like
- Eye-catching details like golden hair and a lifelike stance
- Built-in rigidity allows it to stand upright without support
- Comes with grooming tools to inspire roleplay and care routines
- Excellent gift for both cuddling and imaginative storytelling
- Recognized for sustainability with recycled materials
What We Don’t Like
- Mane can get tangled easily, though brushing is part of the fun
- Slightly limited in interactive features compared to tech-based toys
Overall
This HollyHOME Plush Horse blends charm with thoughtful design, making it a favorite for kids who dream of ponies. Its soft feel, grooming extras, and stand-up body make it more than just a plush—it’s a companion ready for adventures, quiet moments, and endless hugs.
Giggle & Honey Horse Jewelry Box – Musical Keepsake with Spinning Horse
Blending elegance with whimsy, the Giggle & Honey Horse Jewelry Box offers a magical first keepsake for young horse lovers. This musical jewelry box is more than a storage piece—it’s an experience, with a charming spinning horse that dances to “Home on the Range” every time the lid is lifted. Designed for little hands and growing imaginations, it’s a thoughtful gift that sparks wonder.
Key Features
- Musical jewelry box with spinning horse figurine
- Soft felt-lined interior with 1 drawer and compartment for necklaces, rings, or keepsakes
- Crafted from durable pine fiberboard and tested for child safety
- Measures 6 x 4.7 x 3.5 inches – ideal size for a child’s dresser
- Decorative, hand-detailed horse design suitable for ages 3–10
What We Like
- Classic music box charm that delights kids and evokes nostalgia
- Sturdy build with elegant design that looks great in a child’s room
- Safe and certified materials – built to last through years of use
- Perfect gift-ready packaging, making it ideal for birthdays or holidays
- Great complement to existing horse-themed toys and decor
What We Don’t Like
- Limited space inside may not hold larger jewelry items
- Only one music tune, which could feel repetitive to older kids
Overall
The Giggle & Honey Horse Jewelry Box is a delightful blend of function and fantasy. Whether used for keepsakes or simply admired as a décor piece, it leaves a lasting impression. A treasured gift that will be remembered long after the music stops.
INPANY Bouncy Horse Hopper – Inflatable Ride-On Toy for Toddlers
If you’re looking for a fun, energy-burning toy that also helps develop motor skills, the INPANY Bouncy Horse Hopper is a great find. This inflatable ride-on horse is equal parts adorable and durable, offering hours of bouncing play for toddlers. Designed to mimic a real pony in form and charm, it encourages active indoor and outdoor fun while giving little ones their very own trusty steed.
Key Features
- Inflatable horse hopper with charming biomimetic design
- Includes hand pump for quick and easy inflation
- Constructed with thick, eco-friendly material that’s burst-resistant
- Ideal for promoting balance, strength, and coordination
- Weight capacity of up to 100 lbs, suitable for ages 3 and up
What We Like
- Easy to set up and deflate for storage or travel
- Encourages physical play and reduces screen time
- Durable enough to handle rough toddler play
- Attractive design with a lifelike, friendly horse face
- Comes in gift-ready packaging
What We Don’t Like
- Ears used for grip may be a bit short for very young children
- Requires adult supervision for younger toddlers
Overall
The INPANY Bouncy Horse Hopper blends play and exercise in one adorable package. Whether it’s for birthdays, playdates, or just a rainy day indoors, this toy is a joyful ride for any horse-loving child. It’s tough, cute, and keeps kids moving—what more could a parent ask for?
HollyHOME Stick Horse with Wooden Wheels and Sound – 36 Inch Plush Ride-On Pony
Designed for kids who dream of galloping through imaginary fields, the HollyHOME Stick Horse brings that fantasy to life with classic style and playful sound effects. Crafted with a soft plush head, durable wooden stick, and real rolling wheels, it’s a charming twist on a timeless toy. With built-in gallop and neigh sounds activated by pressing its ears, this toy invites movement, imagination, and lots of giggles.
Key Features
- 36″ plush stick horse with sturdy wooden pole and smooth-rolling wheels
- Sound effects (neighing and galloping) triggered by pressing ears (2 AA batteries required)
- Handmade plush head with reins and comfy handles
- Designed to support balance and coordination through active play
- Recommended for ages 3 and up
What We Like
- Realistic details and handcrafted plush head make it visually appealing
- Wheels offer smoother movement, especially on indoor floors
- Encourages physical activity and roleplay
- Easy to assemble and sturdy enough for everyday use
- Great for birthday parties, cowboy-themed events, or playroom fun
What We Don’t Like
- Wheels may loosen over time with heavy use, though easily fixable
- Sound module could be louder for outdoor play
Overall
This HollyHOME Stick Horse delivers a delightful riding experience that sparks imagination while supporting motor development. With its quality craftsmanship and fun sound features, it’s more than just a toy—it’s a pretend play companion that gallops alongside growing adventures.
Marsjoy Walking Pony – Musical Interactive Plush Horse with Leash
The Marsjoy Walking Pony isn’t just a stuffed animal—it’s an interactive sidekick that sings, dances, and trots right alongside your child. With a leash for guidance and built-in sound and motion features, this plush pony is the perfect companion for little ones who love to play pretend. It’s soft, engaging, and built to spark giggles with every gallop.
Key Features
- Interactive plush pony with walking, head-shaking, and dancing features
- Plays music and makes horse sounds including neighs and hoofbeats
- Soft, skin-safe fabric filled with resilient PP cotton
- Comes with a 27-inch leash for easy leading during play
- Designed for children ages 3 and up, requires 3 AA batteries
What We Like
- Movement and sound features offer rich sensory play
- Makes a fun birthday or holiday gift for horse-loving kids
- Encourages nurturing and imaginative roleplay
- Soft plush construction is great for hugging as well as walking
- Easy activation with button on the leash
What We Don’t Like
- No volume control, which could be too loud in quiet settings
- Some users report inconsistent motion performance over time
Overall
The Marsjoy Walking Pony is a lively and lovable toy that keeps kids entertained while they play the role of caretaker and adventurer. With its blend of motion, music, and cuddly charm, it’s a delightful pick for any young child who dreams of having a pony of their own.
iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals – Brown Hopping Horse Plush Ride-On
This soft, huggable, and hilariously bouncy horse from iPlay, iLearn is more than a toy—it’s a giggle-filled workout for toddlers. Designed to support balance, strength, and endless energy, the Bouncy Pal Hopper is made of safe, plush-covered materials and comes with its own inflation pump. Whether it’s a birthday surprise or just a way to keep kids moving, this inflatable steed is always ready for action.
Key Features
- Inflatable ride-on bouncer with plush outer cover
- Soft fabric surface offers zero skin friction for toddlers
- Includes hand pump for quick inflation
- Removable, washable zippered cover for easy cleaning
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor play for kids 18 months and up
What We Like
- Soft, plush cover makes it safe and comfy for younger toddlers
- Encourages active play, balance, and coordination
- Easy setup with included double-action pump
- Zippered cover is both machine- and hand-washable
- Highly durable – holds up over years of rough play
What We Don’t Like
- Slightly smaller than expected for older toddlers
- Putting the plush cover back on after washing can be tricky
Overall
The iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals Horse is a joy-filled companion that delivers big on movement, fun, and motor skill development. With its thoughtful design and long-lasting build, it’s one of the best introductory ride-on toys for young kids. A favorite pick among parents for good reason.
Franco Kids Bedding – Spirit Riding Free Horse Cuddle Pillow
For kids who can’t get enough of horses or the beloved Spirit Riding Free series, this cuddle pillow is the perfect bedtime buddy. Shaped just like Spirit, with soft plush fabric and embroidered facial features, this pillow is designed for snuggling, travel, or simply decorating a child’s room with a little equestrian magic.
Key Features
- Soft, plush pillow in the shape of Spirit from DreamWorks’ Riding Free
- Made from 100% polyester with embroidered details and a fuzzy mane and tail
- Measures 17″ long, ideal for hugging or using as a travel pillow
- Durable and lightweight, great for home, road trips, or sleepovers
- Spot-clean design to maintain color and softness
What We Like
- Adorable character design brings Spirit to life
- Super soft texture perfect for cuddling
- Versatile use—serves as both a toy and functional pillow
- Great for fans of the animated series
- Makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, naps, or travel
What We Don’t Like
- Not machine-washable, requires spot cleaning
- Smaller size may not appeal to older children looking for larger plushes
Overall
The Franco Spirit Cuddle Pillow blends cozy comfort with character charm. Whether it’s for nap time, car rides, or simply a bedtime companion, this soft horse pillow is sure to win hearts. A must-have for any Spirit fan who wants their favorite horse by their side.
iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals – Yellow Hopping Horse Ride-On Toy
Designed to bring bounce, balance, and endless grins to toddlers, the iPlay, iLearn Hopping Horse is a plush-covered inflatable toy that turns active play into a daily adventure. With its soft exterior and sturdy build, it’s ideal for developing motor skills while keeping energy levels high and screens at bay.
Key Features
- Inflatable horse hopper with soft, removable plush cover
- Includes hand pump for fast setup
- Designed to support physical development: coordination, balance, and strength
- Safe for both indoor and outdoor play
- Ideal for toddlers 18 months and up
What We Like
- Soft exterior is cozy and gentle on sensitive skin
- Promotes physical activity in a fun, engaging way
- Simple to inflate and easy to store
- Washable plush cover for hassle-free cleanup
- Loved by both kids and parents for its durability and charm
What We Don’t Like
- Requires deflation to remove the cover for washing
- Younger toddlers may need help balancing at first
Overall
The iPlay, iLearn Yellow Hopping Horse is a joyful blend of fitness and fun. With its bounce-ready design and child-friendly texture, it’s an excellent choice for any growing cowboy or cowgirl. Perfect for birthdays or everyday active play, this toy stands out for quality, value, and sheer ride-on delight.
Things to Consider When Buying Horse Toys for Kids
1. Age Appropriateness
Always check the recommended age range. Ride-on toys like inflatable hoppers are great for ages 18 months and up, while interactive plush horses may suit children closer to 3 years old and above.
2. Type of Toy
- Ride-On Toys like the iPlay, iLearn Bouncy Pals or INPANY Hopper are great for burning energy and developing balance.
- Plush Toys such as the HollyHOME Plush Horse or Franco Spirit Pillow offer comfort and imaginative play.
- Interactive Toys like the Marsjoy Walking Pony add sound, movement, and a sense of companionship.
3. Durability & Material
Look for sturdy builds and safe, kid-friendly materials. Plush covers that are removable and washable are ideal for younger kids who love to snuggle their toys.
4. Size and Storage
Some toys are compact enough for easy storage, while others may need a bit more space for bouncing or interactive use.
5. Safety Features
Ensure stability in ride-on toys and that sound/motion toys have volume control or battery compartments safely enclosed.
FAQs
Yes, when used under adult supervision and away from stairs or sharp corners. Most are designed with wide bases and handles to aid balance.
Some, like the iPlay, iLearn models, come with removable covers that can be machine washed. Others, like musical or electronic toys, typically allow for spot cleaning only.
Not assembly per se, but many (such as the Marsjoy Pony) require you to insert batteries and activate functions using a button or switch.
Plush cuddle pillows like the Franco Spirit Horse are soft, lightweight, and easy to pack, making them perfect for on-the-go comfort.
Yes! Ride-ons improve balance and coordination, while plush and interactive toys encourage nurturing behavior, creativity, and imaginative storytelling.
Conclusion
From galloping ride-ons to soft plush pals, horse toys deliver more than just fun—they spark creativity, movement, and even a bit of emotional growth. Whether your child is cuddling a soft pony during story time or bouncing across the living room on their inflatable steed, the right horse toy can become a cherished part of childhood.
With the wide range of quality picks available—from Melissa & Doug’s Show-Horse Stable to the iPlay Bouncy Pals—there’s a pony out there for every personality. So saddle up and pick the perfect companion for the little horse lover in your life.