Curly

While the exact origin of the American Curly horse is currently being researched, it is known that Curly horses were found in North America in the 1800s and used as Native Americans mounts.  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 being found in South America.

Curlies are most commonly chestnut colored, but 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 may be gaited, but all 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 likes 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 also.  The Curly horse does shed out in the summer; some horses will lose their curly look with their slick summer coat, while others will 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 at www.curlyhorses.org, or American Bashkir Curly Horse Registry at www.abcregistry.org  or Curly Sporthorses International at  www.curlysporthorse.org