The Peruvian Paso and its Gait
The Peruvian Paso has "something for everyone" and is a smooth, elegant animal. Offering riding comfort, strength and stamina for the avid trail rider; calm
tractable disposition so important in the family mount; arrogant, flashy presence and action which set the exhibitor and parader apart from others.
As the "National Horse of Peru," the judicious fusion of several Old World breeds provided the foundation for the Peruvian horse. The Spanish Jennet gave
its even temperament and smooth ambling gait, the African Barb contributed great energy, strength and stamina while the Andalusian imparted its excellent
conformation, action, proud carriage and beauty to the new breed.
The Peruvian Paso transmits its smooth gait to all purebred foals. No artificial devices or special training aids are necessary to enable the horse to perform
its specialty - a natural four-beat footfall of medium speed that provides a ride of incomparable smoothness and harmony of movement.
Perhaps the most misunderstood of all traits that distinguishes the Peruvian horse is "brio," a quality of spirit that enables this tractable horse to perform
with an arrogance and exuberance that can only be described as thrilling. "Brio" and stamina give the Peruvian its willingness and ability to
perform tirelessly for many hours and many miles in the service of its rider. Physically, the Paso is a horse of medium size, usually standing between 14.1
and 15.2 hands tall, with a powerful build. He may be chestnut, black, brown, bay, buckskin, palomino, gray, roan or dun; with the solid colors, grays and
dark skin considered most desirable. The mane is abundant with fine, lustrous hair that may be curly or straight.
Complements of the Peruvian Paso Horse Registry of North America
