Horse Girl Facts: Paso Fino
The Paso Fino horse breed has a rich history that dates back centuries. Let's delve into the fascinating evolution of this unique and versatile equine breed.
Origins of the Paso Fino
The Paso Fino breed originated in Spain and was brought to the Caribbean by Spanish conquistadors in the 15th and 16th centuries. These horses were prized for their smooth, lateral gait, which provided a comfortable ride for long distances.
Image from Breyer Horse
Development in the Caribbean
Over time, the Paso Fino breed evolved in the Caribbean islands, particularly in Puerto Rico and Colombia. Selective breeding by local horsemen aimed to enhance the natural gait of the Paso Fino, resulting in the distinctive four-beat lateral gait that sets this breed apart.
Introduction to the United States
The Paso Fino breed was introduced to the United States in the mid-20th century, where it quickly gained popularity among horse enthusiasts. The smooth gait, elegant appearance, and gentle temperament of the Paso Fino made it a favorite for trail riding, endurance riding, and even in the show ring.
Recognition and Preservation Efforts
In 1978, the Paso Fino Horse Association was established in the United States to promote and preserve the breed. Today, the Paso Fino is recognized for its versatility, beauty, and unique gait, making it a sought-after breed for riders of all disciplines.
Modern-Day Paso Finos
Modern-day Paso Finos come in a variety of colors and coat patterns, but they all share the breed's signature smooth gait. Whether used for pleasure riding, competitive showing, or ranch work, the Paso Fino continues to captivate horse lovers around the world.
As you can see, the history of the Paso Fino horse breed is a testament to the enduring legacy of these remarkable animals. Their journey from the shores of Spain to the pastures of the United States is a story of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring bond between humans and horses.
Breed Standards
Looks and Style
Paso Finos are bred to have good balance. Their legs aren’t too long, nor is their body too heavy. Their hooves are hardy and rarely need shoes. They come in every equine color, including pinto, palomino, and even cream or buckskin. Paso Fino horses are usually 13 to 15 hands tall and always have a long, flowing mane and tail, kept in perfect condition.
Smooth Ride
Horses can be trained to perform different gaits for show and competition, but the Paso Fino is born with this ability! Many people with bad backs or knees aren’t able to ride any other breed, because no other breed is so smooth!
| The Paso Fino can walk and canter like other breeds, but they prefer to gait. Their gait has three speeds called the Classic Fino, Paso Corto, and Paso Largo. The Classic Fino is very rapid but covers little ground, almost like running in place. This gait is used only for show and is the most difficult to perform. At shows, the horses gait over the ‘fino board’ with microphones underneath so the judges can hear how fast their feet are moving. The Paso Corto gait is the most natural gait, with speed similar to a trot. The fastest gait is the Paso Largo. In this gait, the horse extends its legs out, similar to a canter or slow gallop, and can reach speeds up to thirty miles per hour. |
General Impression: Smooth, natural gait that is unique to the breed. Movement is balanced and in-sync.
Size: 13 to 15.2 hands with 13.3 to 14.2 being the most typical size. Weight is 700 to 1000 pounds. Full size may not be attained until the fifth year.
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| Conprometido de Diana |
Color: Every equine color can be found, with or without white markings.
Disposition: The Paso Fino is an extremely willing horse that truly seems to enjoy human companionship and strives to please. It is spirited and responsive under tack while sensible and gentle at hand.
Mane, Tail, and Forelock: They are as long, full, and luxurious as nature can provide. No artificial additions are allowed.
Head: Well-shaped, alert, and intelligent face. The head is refined and in proportion to the body, with a defined, but not extreme jaw, and large, expressive eyes.
Neck: Gracefully arched, medium in length, and allowing for a high carriage.
Forehand: Shoulders slope into the withers with great depth through the hearth.
Midsection: The top line should be proportionately shorter than the underline. The back is strong and muscled.
Hindquarters: The croup is slightly sloping with rounded loins, broad hips, and strong hocks. The tail is carried gracefully when in motion.
Legs: Straight with refined bones, strong, well-defined tendons, and broad, long forearms with shorter cannons. The thigh and gaskin are strong and muscled but not exaggerated. Pasterns are sloping and medium in length.
Information pulled from across the internet but thank your Breyer for the continued dedication to information about horses and creating models that I still cherish from when I was born.