History of the Appaloosa Horse

The Appaloosa horse is an ancient breed depicted in cave paintings as far back as prehistoric times. They are known to have existed in Persia, China and Egypt. Spotted horses were bred in Spain and developed into a riding horse and later taken to Mexico in the 16th Century and later spread across North America. Escaped spotted horses and Mustangs were captured by the Nez Perce Indians and were used to produce horses which were fast, strong, agile and docile. The Nez Perce Indians lived near the Palouse River and the breed first became known as the A Palouse and then later the Appaloosa. Horses were later captured by the US army and in 1938 the Appaloosa was recognised as a breed.

There are 6 main Appaloosa patterns but each horse is unique. "Leopard" is a white horse with coloured spots, "Snowflake" is coloured with white spots. "Spotted Blanket" is mainly coloured with a white back and/or hindquarters on which there are coloured spots. "White Blanket" has a light body with dark back and/or hindquarters. "Marble" is coloured at birth but fades to almost white as the horse ages except for some darker markings on the legs and face, "Frosted Tip" is coloured with pale or white spots on the loins and hips.

Height of the Appaloosa Horse

The Appaloosa Horse stands 14.1 to 15.2 hh.

Colour of the Appaloosa Horse

Roan is the most usual colouring accompanying the white, although other colours occur. The body has pink skin.

Characteristics of the Appaloosa Horse

The Appaloosa has a broad head, compact body with short straight back, sloping shoulders, strong legs, sparse mane and tail. Smooth action.

Temperament of the Appaloosa Horse

Courageous and docile.

Uses of the Appaloosa Horse

The Appaloosa Horse is used as a general riding horse, for ranch work, trail riding and as a circus horse.