Horse sports and competitions involve significant welfare considerations, from training methods to the physical demands placed on equine athletes throughout their careers.
Equine competition welfare involves a complex balance between respecting the horse-human partnership and ensuring that competitive demands do not compromise animal wellbeing. Some training methods used in competitive equestrian sport cause demonstrable stress and discomfort, including hyperflexion of the neck in dressage. Racing and eventing carry inherent injury and fatality risks. The lifetime welfare of competition horses requires attention not just during their competitive careers but during retirement, which can constitute two-thirds of a horse's life. The industry has made progress but further reform of training standards, competition rules, and aftercare provision is needed.