Peruvian Paso Horses
14hh - 15.2hh
All colors are permissible.
The most prominent of the Peruvian breeds, the Paso (meaning "step) is the result of three hundred years of selective breeding. It owes its origins to the Barb and Andalusians but inherits its unique natural lateral gait from the Spanish "jennet," a riding horse akin to the old English ambler. They were first brought to Peru in 1532 by Francisco Pizarro as a ranch horse.
The Peruvian Paso's gait, although similar to the rack of the American Saddlebred or the running walk of the Tennessee Walking Horse, is marked by a characteristically energetic, round, dishing action of the forelegs. Their action is so smooth that a rider can hold a full glass of water without spilling a drop.
Tough, sure-footed horses, their ability to thrive on meager rations and kind nature make it an ideal ranch and long-distance horse. Despite their small size they can easily carry adults for long distances at speeds up to 15 mph.
The Paso Fino, originally from Puerto Rico, is a gaited breed related to the Peruvian Paso. It has a virtually four-beat gait, divided into the paso fino, paso corto, in which more ground is covered, and the fast, extended paso largo.
