Breed Spotlight: The Appaloosa Horse
If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique breed of horse, the Appaloosa is an excellent choice!
Their colorful spotted coat pattern sets them apart from other breeds.
From its history with multiple different kinds of horses comes a wide range in body types too – each one having their own special color patterns that make them stand out against any backdrop.
Even more interesting to those passionate about equine coat genetics are the connections between these eye-catching coats and leopard complex mutations (LP).
What is an American Appaloosa horse and where does it come from?
Horses with leopard complex spotting patterns have a long and distinguished history.
Research suggests that these horses were accurately depicted in cave paintings from prehistoric Eurasia, while art dating all the way back to Ancient Greece and China shows them being used for riding or as coach horses by nobility!
The popularity of spotted coat designs really took off during mid-18th century Europe when they became highly sought after among royalty.
These majestic horses were cherished throughout Europe for centuries, primarily used in schools of horsemanship and as parade animals.
Fast forward to present day – the classic leopard complex spotting still exists today in breeds like Knabstrupper or Noriker horses!
The Spanish Conquistadors brought this unique look to America back in the 16th century; they had spotted horses with them when landing on Mexican, Californian and Oregon shores.
Nestled in the beautiful Pacific Northwest, the Nez Perce people have a long and fascinating history with horses.
Dating back to 1730 when they first obtained them from their Shoshone neighbors, these proud peoples developed an impressive array of breeding practices for their animals over time – including gelding inferior male horses and trading away poorer stock as ways to help keep raising only quality herds.
As such, by early 19th century it was clear that this tribe had made quite a name for themselves both on land and within horse circles!
The first written account of the Nez Perce spotted horse come from the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1806.
“Their horses appear to be of an excellent race; they are lofty, elegantly formed, active and durable.”
The Nez Perce people found success in the horse trading business during 1861, with their “elegant chargers” proving to be highly sought after.
What was normally an ordinary purchase of $15 for a horse had some non-Indigenous buyers receiving offers up to a whopping $600 each!
However, the peace between the Nez Perce and non-natives was short-lived and in 1877 the Nez Perce, fed up with white settlers, attacked a settlement which resulted in the Nez Perce war.
Even after Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce people surrendered to the U.S. 7th Cavalry, tragedy still befell them: their horses were taken away from them with many shot or sold off, leaving only a small population behind in Wallowa valley.
The Nez Perce tribe never regained its former position as breeders of Appaloosas.
In the late 20th century they began to resurrect their horse culture and created a separate breeding program to develop a new horse breed: The Nez Perce horse.
The Appaloosa were virtually forgotten as a distinct breed for almost 60 years.
The spotted horses that remained after the Nez Perce war were captured or purchased by settlers and became eye-catching attractions in circuses and Wild West shows.
Settlers called these amazing horses “Palouse” to honor the Palouse River that traveled through ancient Nez Perce country.
Throughout time, it transformed into “Appalucy” and “Apalousiey” until eventually being popularly accepted as “Appaloosa”.
What are the physical characteristics of the American Appaloosa horse breed, and what do they look like?
The Appaloosa horse is renowned for its one-of-a-kind speckled coat, with an array of overlay patterns atop various approved base hues.
It doesn’t just stop there though – this majestic animal also possesses mottled skin, striped hooves and eyes that boast a white sclera to complete the unique look!
With an unmistakable leopard coat pattern and several breeds that have come together to create its unique look, the Appaloosa is truly one of a kind.
This sturdy horse ranges in weight from 950-1,250 pounds (430-570 kg) and stands between 14-16 hands tall (56–64 inches / 142 – 163 cm).
Although pony or draft breeding isn’t allowed per ApHC guidelines, you’ll still find a wide variety of beautiful body types among this remarkable breed!
The Appaloosa of old had a unique look all its own, combining the nimble frame of traditional Spanish horses with 18th-century European bloodlines.
This blend created something spectacularly special; an eye-catching equine that was in vogue on America’s plains long before it fell out of fashion across the pond!
After the Appaloosa Horse Club was established in 1938, things began to change for this breed.
To create a more modern horse, Quarter Horse and Arabian bloodlines were added – giving us faster sprint racers and better halter competitors!
Through crossing “old-type” Appalosas with Arabians (thanks Red Eagle!), cutting horses & reining superstars emerged.
During the 70s Thoroughbred lines entered the mix too; providing stylish speedsters that have thrived ever since on tracks all over America.
What are some common uses for an American Appaloosa horse, and what kind of work can they do?
Appaloosas are a true all-rounder!
Not only do they have the looks, but also an incredible talent for Western and English riding.
They’re perfect if you want to participate in cutting, reining or roping competitions – not forgetting barrel racing which is even more thrilling when it’s Appaloosa themed!
But that’s just scratching the surface of what these magnificent equines can bring to your life; eventing, show jumping, fox hunting…you name it.
For those looking for some leisurely weekend rides out on the trails then look no further as fatigued legs won’t be part of this equation either with endurance riding their specialty.
If none of that takes your fancy why not try horse racing?
There’s nothing quite like taking control atop one these beauties around a track – plus there’s active breed association promoting such events.
Famous Appaloosas
Appaloosas are a true Hollywood star, featured in some of the biggest western films and TV series!
From legendary actor Marlon Brando’s The Appaloosa to John Wayne starring captivatingly as “El Dorado” or Matt Damon riding Cowboy with True Grit – these magnificent horses have had their time to shine.
A little-known fact is that the controversial Florida State Seminoles mascot team features an Appaloosa horse even though there were no ties between them originally!
How much does an American Appaloosa horse cost, and where can you find one for sale or adoption in your area?
Depending on the breed registry, the training and what you want to do with your new Appaloosa, you can buy an Appy for anywhere from $1000 to $10,000.
To look for an appaloosa for sale you can go to:
or to rescue:
Or simply do a Google search for “Appaloosa for sale near me” or “Appaloosa for rescue near me” and enjoy your new friend!
If you’re buying your first horse, check out my popular posts:
