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Introduction.

The name comes from the Spanish word pintado. Translated, this means painted, or in cowboy language, paint. Spotted horses and/or partially colored horses were also called calicos.

This breed's history, foundation and development most probably was identical to the American Quarter Horse with one distinguishable exception: Color.  It is therefore no surprise that The American Paint Horse Association was thought to be formed primarily because The American Quarter Horse Association does not register horses with white body markings (for the specific regulations on color see the AQHA official handbook of rules and regulations for 2002).

It's easy to understand why this is the second most popular breed in the US. Here's the recipe: Take a Quarter horse, add color and you get a Paint. For many, this is the most beautiful horse in the world.

History.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers sailed for the new continent and brought their horses with them. Among these horses were Spotted War horses. According to one historian, one of those horses was white and sorrel with spots on its belly. It is believed that this horse bred with American Mustangs thereby creating the foundation of the American Paint Horse breed of today.

By the early 19th century The Spotted Horse, as it was called, became popular particularly among the American Indians.  Commanches had many spotted horses in their herds. In August of 1962, The American Paint Stock Horse Association was founded.  By the end of the year it grew to 150 members with 250 registered horses.

About that same time a group of spotted horse lovers founded The American Paint Quarter Horse Association.  These two groups merged into The American Paint Horse Association in 1965.  In their very short history this breed has become the second most popular in The United States

Foundation.

Paint horses were from the same origin as Quarter horses, since other than their color, they would have been eligible for registration as American Quarter horses.

Type.

The Paint Horse Breed is considered to be one of the so-called stock-type horses. They are close coupled, balanced, muscular and built close to the ground. Substantial hindquarter and forearm muscles are required to produce the speed, power and athleticism necessary to the breed.

They are used for roping, cattle, pleasure, trial riding and any event requiring speed and athletic ability. Other breeds of this type include Quarter Horses and Appaloosas.

Colors.

Color is the main issue when it comes to this breed.  In addition to color, registration requires the Paint Horse Sire and Dam (father & mother) be registered with The American Paint Horse Association, The Jockey Club (for Thoroughbreds), or The American Quarter Horse Association.

Horses eligible for the Regular Registry must have a minimum amount of white hair over unpigmented (pink) skin.