Information, History & Equine Data for the Black Leopard Appaloosa

The spotted Black Leopard Appaloosa has a long and storied history in the American frontier.The Nez Perce Native Americans first discovered and bred the horses--black spotted ones and other colors. Historians believe the name Appaloosa could derive from the Palouse River, a tributary of the Snake River through modern Washington and Idaho. American settlers referred to the horses abundant near the river as "A Palouse Horse," which turned into "Appalousey."

  1. Origin

    • Appaloosas made hunting easier for the Nez Perce tribe.

      The Appaloosa breed was originally bred in the Inland northwest of America by the Nez Perce Native Americans, says Ultimate Horse Site's feature on this breed. Before the horse moved into their lives, the Nez Perce Indians were fisherman and did ride horseback.

      These horses enabled the Nez Perce to hunt buffalo with more ease and skill and allowed them to trade their kills for goods and services.The Native American bred the horses well, creating strong, fast, well-nourished and intelligent horses. Researchers with the Appaloosa Project, a genome-study for "leopard-complex" Appaloosas, as of 2010 is still seeking answer to find out the true origin of the spots.

    More Native American History

    • When the Nez Perce community rebelled against treaties delivered by a group of settlers, The Nez Perce War of 1877 began. Chief Joseph surrendered in Montana in 1877 and the army confiscated most of his tribes' horses. Early American settlers bred the horses intermittently but some traits were lost that the the Native American had cultivated.

      Round-ups and rodeos became popular in the 1800s and 1900s and breeders grew interest in the stealth, strength and beauty of the Appaloosa.

    Coloring and General Information

    • The Black Leopard Appaloosa wears black spots over its pure white body.

      The Black Leopard Appaloosa wears large dark spots that cover its white body. Other Appaloosa breeds have solid or colorful coat patterns that can show off colored spots, patterns or solid colors.

      Appaloosas are generally used for showing and riding. As of 2010, Black Leopard Appaloosa breeders produce horses for rodeo and trail riding, jumping, horse-shows and long trips.

    Equine Data

    • The Black Leopard Appaloosa is a sport horse. The breed generally reaches a height around 14.2 hands (one hand equals four inches). Appaloosas are a light breed, which means they are swift, naturally agile, and able to switch quickly and comfortably from leisure trail walking to racetrack running.

      Most Appaloosas have sturdy legs, durable hooves, and have the ability to learn commands quickly. Hooves will show a vertical stripe; a short, cropped tail and a narrow mane characterize the breed.

    Interesting Facts

    • The Appaloosa has a naturally short mane and tail.

      The Nez Perce Native Americans bred the Appaloosa to have a short mane and tail so their hair would not easily catch in bushes and trees.