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Appaloosa
Appaloosa
Appaloosa
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The Appaloosa horse is a very ancient breed, and is depicted in cave paintings as far back as prehistoric times. Originally they existed in Persia, China and Egypt, and were later bred in Spain and developed into a riding horse. After being taken to Mexico in the 16th Century they then spread across North America.

Horse Strengths
Competition
  
Jumping
  
Rodeo
 
Dressage
Racing
  
Showing
 
Driving
  check 
Ranch
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Trail Riding
 
Endurance
 check
Riding
  
 

Horse Facts
Origin
The Appaloosa is known to exist in prehistoric times 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. They were developed into fast and agile horses by the American Indians. Horses were later captured by the US army and in 1938 the Appaloosa was recognized as a breed.
Characteristics
Broad head, compact body with short straight back, sloping shoulders, strong legs, sparse mane and tail. Smooth action.
Height
14.1 to 15.2 hands
Colors
Roan is the most usual coloring accompanying the white, although other colors occur. There are 6 main patterns even though each horse is unique. 
Leopard is a white horse with colored spots
Snowflake is colored with white spots
Spotted Blanket is mainly colored with a white back and/or hindquarters on which there are colored spots.
White Blanket has a light body with dark back and/or hindquarters. 
Marble is colored at birth but fades to almost white as the horse ages except for some darker markings on the legs and face
Frosted Tip is colored with pale or white spots on the loins and hips.
Personality
Courageous, but also docile.

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Pictures: DCI | iStockphotos
Contributors: DCI | ©2005 PetPeoplesPlace. All rights reserved.

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