The Appaloosa Horse
The Appaloosa was developed by the Nez Perce Indians in the 18th century. Spanish stock with the spotting gene imported by the conquistadores was used as a foundation for the breed. Spots were very important to the Nez Perce, and resulted in extremely careful breeding. Not only did they signify beauty and quality, they were good camaflouge. The Nez Perce lived in northeastern Oregon and enjoyed racing their horses along the Palouse River, which is where the breed's name derives from. In 1877, the United States government forced the Nez Perce to move to reservations. They refused, but were eventually overtaken and their horses confiscated. The Appaloosa was in danger of becoming extinct, but the foundation of the Appaloosa Horse Club from a few foundation stallions resulted in the preservation of the breed.
Appaloosas have short, sparse manes and tails. Their hooves are striped and are very hard, as the Nez Perce never shod them. Their eyes have a white sclera. Mottled skin appears around their muzzles and eyes. They usually grow to between 14.2 and 15.2 hands, but some may be larger. Anything smaller is a pony.
Appaloosas have 5 coat patterns. A Blanket has white over the hips, with or without spots. Leopard is dark spots over the entire body on a white base. Marble is roan coloring with dark spots on the edges of the body and frost in the middle. A Snowflake pattern has dominant spotting over hips, whereas Frost has white specks on a dark ground. Appaloosas can also be solid colored, but these are less common. If a horse has 2 Appaloosa parents and has the other breed requirements (mottled skin, white sclera, striped hooves), then it can be registered as an Appaloosa and is given and ID number.
The temperament of the Appaloosa is very good. It is calm and sensible, as well as versatile and possessing stamina.
Appaloosas today are often bred to Quarter Horses in hopes of the build of a Quarter Horse with the coloring of an Appaloosa. Although, some true Appaloosas still exist who are out of foundation stock (like my horse), therefore containing no Quarter Horse blood. I, personally, would like to preserve the original American Appaloosa, but many feel differently.
The Appaloosa Horse Club (ApHC), the official registry, was formed in 1938 in Moscow, Idaho. The ApHC has over 65,000 registrations, making it the third largest breed registry in the world.
Appaloosas are wonderful horses that are perfect for almost all ages and disciplines. I've been riding these beautiful horses since I was 3 years old, and can honestly say that they are my favorite breed. They are unique from any other.
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