Palomino Horse

The Palomino horse is not actually a particular horse breed but a color breed.



Only those horses which meet certain specific standards of color coding can be called Palomino horses.  The Palomino horse is a characteristic creamy golden tan. Its tail and mane are almost white. They also have characteristic white markings on the legs (like stockings) and face (but these may not extend beyond their eyes).





According to Palomino horse information, there is no specific Palomino horse breed, because the Palomino color is not a complete dominant gene. Even if you breed two Palomino horses together you may not get the exact Palomino horse color. On the other hand, several other horse breeds may be categorized as Palomino horses because they meet the requirements of the standard color code.



For example, several light horses such as the Haflinger, which are generally termed as chestnuts, often have the exact shade of color and markings, and are therefore termed Palomino horses, even though they do not have the correct set of DNA. 

Origin and history: It is probable that the Palamino horse was first selected and named for its beautiful color in Spain. According to Palomino horse facts, these graceful horses were used by the Spanish conquistadors when they discovered and started their conquest of the New World. Later they were bred extensively by Mexican horse breeders. The Americans discovered them in California when the Mexican-American War took place. The Palomino horse is now popular in America as a show horse and has a special place in parades.

Along with many parts of Europe, it is certain that these beautiful golden horses were also found in Asia, and were the horses preferred by the Kings and Emperors of olden days. Many tapestries and ancient artifacts of the countries of these two continents, such as Spain, China and Japan feature these golden horses.

Palomino horse facts trace these gorgeous horses to olden Asia and many parts of Europe, where they were most preferred by Emperors and Kings. Figures of the Palomino horses have been found in ancient artifacts and tapestries in Spanish, Japanese and Chinese art.

Description: The Palomino horse has thoroughbred or Arabian features. They stand about 15 hands high (150 cm or 60 inches). They weigh approximately 500 kg (1,100 lb). While breeding standards dictate that their color should be like a ‘newly minted gold coin’, they are treasured not just for their beauty, but also for their endurance and versatility.

These days, a few palomino registries have begun to allow coats ranging from an almost white cremello to a darker chocolate shade.