The Appaloosas heritage is as colourful and unique as its coat pattern. Usually noticed and recognised because of its spots and splashes of colour, but the abilities of this beauty are more than skin deep. Although generally recognised for its colour, they also have other distinctive characteristics that set them apart from other breeds. The four identifiable characteristics are: coat pattern, mottled skin, sclera of the eyes and striped hooves. One thing to note is some Appaloosas develop their colour over time, while some never do. One could say they have one big spot all over. Even these Appaloosas are truly Appaloosas underneath and should not be considered less of an Appaloosa than their colourful siblings. They still have all the other wonderful traits of the Appaloosa such as trainability, temperament and versatility. And no two Appaloosas are ever born alike, making them truly unique.

 

An Appaloosa can be crossbred with a Thoroughbred, Quarter Horse, Arabian, Australian Stock Horse and Warmblood. As long as it meets registration requirements set out in the AAA Ltd Rule Book, it can be registered Appaloosa.

An Appaloosa can excel in traditional events such as western pleasure, hunter, trail, rodeo, cutting and halter. But they also excel in other fields such as endurance, trail riding, games, and campdrafting. And don't be surprised to see them in the fields of 3-day eventing, showjumping, and dressage or even hacking. They truly are the versatile breed!