Los Caballos de Paso Fino

(The horses with the fine step) By Lynda Zimmerman

Origin & History

Oldest true native breed of horse in the U.S.
Columbus brought mares and stallions from Andalusia and Cordela to Santo Domingo on his second voyage to America (1493)
Descended from three breeds: the Barb, Andalusian and Spanish Jennet, a gaited horse that could pass on this trait
The mount of the Spanish Conquistadors
Assisted in conquest, exploration and development of the Americas
Gaited horse was highly prized by Native Americans (Chief Joseph of Nez Perce)

Natural, four-beat, lateral gait that is incredibly smooth (Magic Carpet ride)
Classic Fino, Paso Corto, Paso Largo (slow to fast speed gaits, short to long distance)
Extremely willing temperament, controlled spirit, gentle, sensible, responsive
Quick, sure-footed, athletic, bred for good physical balance
Graceful arched neck and tail carriage
Refined head with straight profile
Sloping shoulders and deep chest
Refined leg bones; durable hooves
Luxurious, full mane and tail
Every equine color, with or without white markings
Height: 13.2 to 15.2 hands high (avg. 14)
Weight: Normal weight 700-1100 lbs.
Approx. 40,000 Paso Finos in U.S.