Azteca

The Azteca breed was the first breed of horse to be developed in Mexico.  The breed was developed by blood from Andalusian, Criollo and Quarter Horse horses.  On November 4, 1982, the Mexican Depatment of Agriculture granted an official registry for the Azteca. 

Azteca horses are between 14 and 15.3 hands, which is a height established primarily because of the breeds intended use for Charreria.  They have lean heads and a straight facial profile.  The eyes of Azteca horses are expressive and full, and the nostrils are full.  Aztec necks are wide at the base and grow thinner towards the head, displaying a straight angle.  Their necks have beautiful, shiny manes that are thick.

The shoulders of Azteca horses are broad and well developed, in order to leave space between the withers.  They have deep, wide chests and short, strong backs.  They have extremely shiny coats and all colors are permitted into the registry except for paints, albino and appaloosa.

Training and breaking Azteca horses is easy, and they respond well to equine school disciplines that require the horses to gait in a specific way.  They are regarded very valuable for schooling and have muscular structure and strength.

The Azteca is a fairly new breed, but has already created a name for itself in sport jumping.