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Breed/Discipline: Curly

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Curly

Curly Horses of the Midwest

While the exact origin of the American Curly Horse is currently being researched, experts know that Curly horses were found in North America in the 1800s and used as mounts by Native Americans. They were discovered by white settlers in wild herds of mustangs at the turn of the 20th century. There is also evidence of Curly horses living in South America.

Curlies are most commonly chestnut colored, but they can be found in every color from bays, blacks, and greys, to appaloosa and pinto markings. They range in all sizes and body types, and they may be gaited, but all Curlies carry a dominant gene for a unique curly coat of hair.

In the winter, a Curly horse's coat takes on the most curled appearance, looking like waves, ringlets, or microcurls, depending on the horse. Manes and forelocks can take on the look of corkscrew, ringlet, or dreadlocked curls. The tails may also be curly or wavy. Ear hair, whiskers, eyelashes, and fetlocks are often curly as well. The Curly horse does shed in the summer; some horses lose their curly look with the arrival of their slick summer coat, while others remain curly year-round.

Many people who are allergic to horses can handle being around Curlies without any reactions. Thus, the Curly horse is the only known breed that can claim to be hypoallergenic.

These horses are known for their calm, intelligent temperament, friendly personality, and stamina. They are a very versatile horse and are used for ranch work, trail riding, pleasure riding, endurance, cart, and as sport horses.

For more information, visit the International Curly Horse Association, American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry or Curly Sporthorses International