Perlino Horses Courses

Perlinos are the result of the cream gene, which can be found in a variety of equine breeds including horses, asses, and zebras. The cream gene lightens the coat colour of a horse, giving it a blend of yellow and white hairs, which creates a distinctively creamy coloured coat. This colour can range from pale yellow to nearly white, giving the horse an elegant and unique appearance. The name perlino is derived from the Spanish word “perla”, meaning pearl. Perlino horses are often born with dark blue eyes that contrast with their creamy coats and give them an especially unique appearance. They tend to have gentle and docile temperaments, making them suitable for dressage, showjumping, and eventing. Perlinos are not commonly seen in the show ring since their coat colour is not officially recognized by any registry. Nevertheless, many people find them desirable for their distinct elegance and eye-catching colour. Breeding for the perlino coat is becoming increasingly popular with breeders, particularly those looking to produce striking and eye-catching horses. The cream gene responsible for perlino coats is also responsible for other colours, including cremello and smoky black. It is important to note that while two horses with copies of the cream gene can produce a perlino foal, two perlinos will never produce a foal with the colour. To breed a perlino, the mare must possess at least one copy of the cream gene, while the stallion must possess two copies.