Peruvian Paso

Before the 17th century most of the horses in the world had natural gaits, and horses that trotted were exceptional.  The majority of travel was done upon a horses back, and there were very little people who knew much about riding a horse, so it was extremely important for a horse to offer a smooth ride.

After the 17th century, there was a greater use for trotting horses.  Roads were built and people began traveling in carriages drawn by horses- and trotting horses were much more suitable to the pulling of the carriages.  Trotting horse breeding was inreased.  At the same time, cattle was raised on large areas of land, and trotting horses were necessary for working the cattle.  In addition, horse racing began gaining popularity and that of course, required the faster trotting horses over the gaited horses.

Peruvian Paso horses were bred with natural gaits.  They came from bloodstock that included Peru horses, Spanish horses and blending with Barb, Friesian, Andalusian and the Spanish Jennet.  Over many centuries, no other horses have been introduced into the Peruvian Paso breed, which means they remain the only naturally gaited breed of horse in the world that gaurantees the offspring will have the same, natural gait.  The gait is the trademark of the Peruvian Paso.

Horses with natural gaits are becoming popular again, thanks to people wanting to enjoy pleasure riding of horses.  They are very showy horses because of their energy and pride- they hold their heads high and appear to always be in a parade!  Peruvian horses are the only horses with a termino movement- which is the graceful and flowing movement similar to a swimmer's arms, where the horses forelegs are rolled outwards as the horse moves forward.

Peruvian Paso horses can move slowly or quickly, but regardless of the speed, their movements are flashy and natural.  Peruvian horses are shown with their natural hoofs, and are rarely shown with shoes.

The colors of Peruvians include all th solid colors, and some greys and roans.  They are directly linked to the Barb horse, which means some of the Peruvians will result with striking colors and shades.  Modern Peruvians stand about 14 or 15 hands and weight between 900 and 1100 pounds.  They are similar in size to Morgans and Arabians.