Appaloosa

Name: Appaloosa
Origin: USA
Height: 140 - 155 cm
Color: mottled
Category: Western horses

History of the Appaloosa breed

Appaloosas are descendants of Spanish horses. The breed originated from the breeding of the Nez-Percé Indians. As the very first Indian tribe, they started targeted breeding as early as the 16th century. In the 18th century they had herds of first-class horses. In the 19th century, this breed almost became extinct. It was only in the 1930s that a group of breeders rescued these horses. Today, Appaloosas are very popular riding and recreational horses. However, they have to pay for this by crossing with other breeds and gradually losing their original characteristics.

Body structure of the Appaloosa breed

The head is small with a straight profile, the eye has a clearly visible iris. The neck is long, muscular and set high, the chest is deep. The back is short, the back is round and well-muscled. The hairs are fine and shorter. The limbs are muscular, the hooves are strong. The coat is mostly pure, mottled. We distinguish several patterns: snowflake, leopard, frost, marble, spotted blanket. The skin around the mouth and eyes is mottled. They tend to be 140-155 cm at the withers.

Use of the Appaloosa breed

These horses are mainly used as western horses and for work with cattle, in which they excel for their agility and strength. It is also used in recreational riding due to its comfortable movements. It is also possible to see them during show jumping and dressage. They are also suitable as endurance horses.

The nature of the Appaloosa breed

Appaloosas are friendly and obedient. They are energetic and strong. They are also docile and very agile in difficult terrain. Thanks to their origin, they have a good sense of direction, know how to find water and defend themselves against natural enemies.