There is perhaps nothing prettier than a spotted horse and it’s no surprise that they are a breeder favorite. The American Paint Horse is bred in part for their striking pinto white patterns, but also for performance.
A Little Backstory
Spotted animals on North America were probably brought over with the Spanish during the 16th century. An appreciation for their attractive patterns proved to be universal and over centuries many were snatched up by settlers and natives alike. Several tribes established successful programs breeding specifically for their spotting. As horse centralized registries began to form in the US, many of them excluded animals with spotted coats, spurring enthusiasts to establish the American Paint Horse Association.
There are several different types of pinto patterns, which are all different genetically. Paint animals are pintos, but with very specific color and breed genetics. They must be either Quarter Horse or Thoroughbred (meeting American Quarter Horse Association or Jockey Club requirements) and possess an overo or tobiano pinto pattern.
What Makes Them Special
They are not just spotted horses, but a breed that is held to a high level of performance. Most color breeds register based on color genetics rather than breed type. The resulting registry is more homogeneous in color, but can be across the board in terms of physical standards. Combining color genetics with breed standards provides an incredible balance to registered animals and allows for a set of breed standards. As far as color registries go, this one is particularly successful and the resulting animals are popular worldwide. To learn more about them, be sure to check out the American Paint breed page.
Quick Facts
Native to the United States.
American Paint Horse Association was established in 1965.
They are not listed in the DAD-IS.