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A Brief History of the Peruvian Paso
 

The Paso, meaning "step", of South America originates in Peru, with which country it is particularly associated. It is also bred in  Colombia and in the United States, where it has achieved considerable popularity.  Horses were first brought to Peru in 1532, by the Spanish adventurer Francisco Pizarro and over the centuries they have retained the  lateral gait associated with the ambling, Spanish Jennet. Indeed, the gaits have been developed and perfected to such a degree that they  are now regarded as a breed characteristic that distinguishes the Paso (thought to be 75% Barb and 25% Spanish or Andalusian blood)  from the other Criollos of South America. These gaits allow the Paso to cover long distances over mountain passes and plains at a  remarkable speed, while affording great comfort to the rider.  Highly selective breeding of the small, very specialized riding horse over hundreds of years has produced a most distinctive animal of  great endurance. The Paso represents "the triumph of Peruvian horse breeding".  The flat and broad face compliments the overall conformation of the Paso. The eyes are bright and very expressive; the muzzle and jaw  are fine, although there is a natural thickness through the throat; and the Paso is intelligent, kindly and easily managed. The arched,  muscular neck is fairly short and in proportion to the frame. It sits well into the withers and the broad, deep chest. The shoulders are  obviously strong and just sufficiently sloped to produce the required elevation in the forelegs. The Paso is able to canter, but rarely does  so, preferring its natural gait. A long, abundant tail of fine hair is well placed in rounded quarters. The skin is covered with fine, shiny  hair. There is exceptional strength in the construction of the hind leg, which is carried well under the body when the animal is in  movement. Sound limbs are essential in any riding horse, and those of the Paso are excellent, with exceptionally strong pasterns to meet  the requirements of its unique gait. To perform any of the three gaits, particularly over long periods of time, the hock joints must be large  and particularly well constructed. Hooves of the Paso are strong and hard, and the horse is naturally sure-footed and agile. Bay and  chestnut are possibly the most common colors but every other coat coloring occurs, including part-colored coats. The Paso stands  between 14-15hh.  Reference: The Ultimate Horse Book; Elwyn Hartley Edwards; 1991

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