Origin and history
The American Paint Horse Association was formed in 1965. Unlike a color registry alone, it requires registered parentage from Paint, Quarter Horse or Thoroughbred lines.
Typical height
Generally about 14 to 16 hands (about 142–163 cm).
Distinguishing characteristics
A stock-horse body — muscular hindquarters, a broad chest and strong legs — paired with distinctive patterning.
Coat colors and patterns
Patterns are described mainly as tobiano, overo and tovero, on any base color.
Common uses and disciplines
Western, Showing
Temperament
Typically steady and versatile, sharing the even disposition associated with stock-horse breeding. Individual horses vary.
Did you know?
- “Paint” (a breed with bloodline rules) and “pinto” (a color description) are not the same thing.
Sources
By National Horse Co. Editorial Team · Reviewed 2026-10-03