Horse Colours ExplainedWhich of the horse colours is your favourite? Are you new to the horse world and bewildered by the strange language horse owners use to describe their horse's colouring? Here is a quick reference guide to each of the main coat colours around today. Some colours also define a horse's breed - for example an "Appaloosa" always has a spotted coat - to a greater or lesser degree depending on the age of the horse and the purity of the breeding line. A Coat of Many Colours!Unlike many other mammals, the equus species display a staggeringly different range of colours.In many cases, horses are bred specifically for their colour and pass on genetic coat patterns which are highly desired by owners and judges alike. This variety has been borne out of human choice and fashion - what is a popular colour choice in the show ring for a few years may alter and breeders can adapt their breeding programme accordingly to emphasize one colour over another. Indeed, careful planning by breeders can produce a foal that is guaranteed to carry a certain colour gene. There is always the exception to this rule with some quite surprising results! Learn how to enhance and bring out the best of your horse's coat colour by following our
Top Turnout Tips!
If you would like to find out about the different types of facial and leg markings referred to in this topic, click on this link to visit our handy guide to Horse Markings. Spot The Difference! Did you know that some foals are born a completely different colour from the one they will end up in adulthood? This is the case with grey (or "white") horses who will almost always be born black or dark brown but will change their coat completely by the time they reach 6 or 7 years of age. Would you believe both photos are actually of the same horse? They are!
Notice that the mane and tail are also a completely different colour as well as the coat! Perhaps it's not just wine that gets better with age!
All The Colours Under The Sun...Here is our easy to follow guide to horse colours - which one is your favourite? Simply click on each thumbnail picture below for more information.
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