Appaloosa

The breed almost died out after the U.S. calvary slaughtered the Indian's horses after chasing the tribe into the Bear Paw mountains of Montana. In 1938, a group of concerned horse people in Moscow, Idaho began a registry, the Appaloosa Horse Club, to save the breed. It now has the third largest registry in the world.

Probably the Appaloosa's most distinguishing feature is its spotted coat, which can be found in various patterns. The more common patterns are a dark body color with light spots (snowflake), and a white body with dark spots (leopard). There

photo courtesy of Terri L. Crabtree

There are a number of types today, as there has been some cross-breeding with the Quarter Horse. Many Appaloosas have thin manes and tails, and some believe that their eyes have an almost human look to them. The height range is from 14.3 to 15.4 hands.

Appaloosas are known for their quiet temperment. They are versatile, able jumpers, and do well in Western events and three day eventing. They make good trail and long distance riders.