The Appaloosa is the horse breed famous for its spotted coat and development in the United States. Its distinctive patterns can include leopard spotting, blanket patterns, snowflakes, and mottled skin.
The breed is strongly associated with the Nez Perce people of the Pacific Northwest, who selectively bred horses for useful qualities. The name is linked to the Palouse region, although the breed’s history includes periods of loss and later organized revival.
Appaloosas may also show striped hooves, a white sclera around the eye, and mottled skin. Not every Appaloosa has the same coat pattern, and some registered horses may appear nearly solid because color expression varies genetically.