Peruvian Paso Horses

Descended from the noble horse lineage of the Spanish Conquistadors, these medium size Peruvian Paso horses hold the distinct honor of having the smoothest gait. These horses have even been nicknamed ‘Champagne Ride’ due to the claim that they can be ridden while holding a glass of champagne and not spill a drop. Peruvians are a natural for parade use and are often seen in the Rose Parade due to their showy, noble nature and calm, surefooted gait.

These horses average between fourteen to fifteen hands tall and have a muscular but not disproportionate build. Peruvian Pasos come in a variety of colors: black, brown, chestnut, buckskin, bay, palomino, dun and gray. For show purposes, the dark solid colors are most desirable.

Peruvians have silky straight or curly manes, a medium size head, medium length graceful neck that is a bit heavier in relation to the rest of the body, short to medium back with a well-sprung barrel, lean but muscular legs and a low set tail held close to the body.

Their unique smooth gait is comprised of a four beat lateral pattern. To recognize Peruvian Paso gait you would look for foot placement with right hind-right front then left hind-left front. Most horses have a four beat lateral pattern when walking. When horses advance to a trot this becomes a two beat gait and a three beat gait when cantering or galloping. Peruvian Pasos have what is known as an ambling gait. This gait stays in the four beat pattern, is faster than a walk but slower than a canter and can be sustained for long periods of time.

Bred for their "brio," which translates to "spirit," these horses have a fiery but stable temperament, natural grace, willingness to do anything asked of them and a great curiosity about their surroundings. Peruvian Paso horses are bred to be one of the most comfortable trail and long distance riding horse.

If you are looking for a dependable, surefooted, non-spooky horse for pleasure riding then this is the horse for you. Peruvian Pasos have all the best horse characteristics wrapped up into one beautiful expressive package.