White spotting pattern
Splashed white makes the horse look as though it was dipped in white paint, with white concentrated on the lower body, legs and face.
A pattern making the horse appear as though it were dipped in white paint, with extensive white markings on the lower body, legs, and often the face. Blue eyes are common.
Borders are often crisp and horizontal, the legs are white and the face may be extensively depigmented. Blue eyes are common but not required.
Several variants in genes including MITF and PAX3 are associated with splashed-white phenotypes, with expression varying among breeds.
The pattern is present from birth and remains broadly stable.
It may resemble frame overo or sabino, and more than one white pattern can occur in the same horse.
Explore the profiles of breeds in which this coat or trait is present or documented.
Discover the American Miniature Horse, an elegant and intelligent miniature horse under 86 cm tall, admired for its beauty and gentle temperament.
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The Paint Horse, an American breed recognized for its pinto coat and versatility, excels in western riding, leisure, and competitions.
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Discover the American Saddlebred, an elegant and expressive saddle horse, famous for its high-stepping gaits and iconic role in equestrian shows.
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Versatile, athletic and high-performing, the American Warmblood excels in equestrian sports. Discover its origins, temperament and strengths.
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Why is the Irish Cob so loved? Gentle, hardy and versatile, this horse with abundant feathering is ideal for riding and driving.
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Discover the Irish Hunter, a sport horse from Ireland. Height 1.60–1.70 m, weight 500–600 kg. Athletic and versatile, it excels in eventing, jumping, and fox hunting.
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Discover the Tennessee Walking Horse, an American breed renowned for its smooth gaits, natural elegance, and calm temperament.
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History, conformation, temperament, breeding and performance: discover why the Zangersheide is one of the world's most sought-after sport horses.
View profileBorders are often crisp and horizontal, the legs are white and the face may be extensively depigmented. Blue eyes are common but not required.
The pattern is present from birth and remains broadly stable.
It may resemble frame overo or sabino, and more than one white pattern can occur in the same horse.
Visual examination is sometimes sufficient, but genetic testing can be useful when several coats look similar or when breeding decisions are involved.
