Horse Colours
Does True Black Exist?

True black horses are quite a rare sight.

It is easy, even for the experienced horse owner to mistake dark Bay for black unless you are close up to the animal.

Giveaways are red hairs mixed in with the coat around the eyes or muzzle which may only be visible when the horse changes his coat or red hairs mixed in with the mane or tail.

True black horses will have black skin and dark brown eyes. Any white hair growth such as leg markings up to the knee or facial markings will be characterised by pink skin underneath.

Some breeds such as Dales and Friesians produce only black horses. Black is also found regularly among Shires, Fells or Welsh Cobs.

Two true black parents can breed a black, bay or chestnut foal.

Find out more about other Horse Colours by clicking on this link. Alternatively, if you would like to see the range of different Horse Markings to explore this topic further. Alternatively, return to our Home Page for lots more horsey info.