Horse Color Myths and Anecdotes

Tradition, they say, can teach us a lot,
So here is what horsemen, on color, have thought.
A bay is hardy, a chestnut is fast
And you can't kill a buckskin: he'll last and last
A grey is gentle, a sorrel is hot
A dun is a horse you'll be happy you bought.
White eyes are flighty, white feet may crack
While some won't rely on the feet of a black.
Some pintos are lucky, like the medicine hat,
But all horsemen agree the best color is fat.
-- Anonymous

The Myth About White Hooves

Are white hooves weaker than black? There are a multitude of "old wives' tales" when it comes to horses, but the one about hoof color simply isn't true. 

The color of the hoof wall doesn't affect its quality. Genetics plays a role, as does nutrition.

Dr. Robert Agne of Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, says, "Nutritional deficiencies will be reflected in the hoof wall quality and growth rates."

There are a variety of supplements available, but he says horses who get a balanced diet with an appropriate level of calories for their activity level should not need special hoof supplements. Continue reading to learn more about how to feed for healthy hooves.

Unique Horse Colors

• Champagne
• Dun
• Variations in Horse Color: Flaxen, rabicano or "skunk tailed," Bend-Or spots, Birdcatcher spots, overo patterns

Coat Color Resources

• The Basics of Quarter Horse Colors
• Quarter Horse Color and Markings Chart
• How to Tell What Color Your Foal Will Be
• Quarter Horse Coat-Color Testing

Horse Color Personality Quiz: Which Horse Color Would You Be?

And for some fun, find out if your personality matches that of a palomino or chestnut. Or perhaps a bay or red roan? Take our quiz to find out!