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Step 1
Look for a white sclera around the eye, a common Appaloosa trait. This gives the horse the appearance of being startled even when it is calm and at rest. Most other breeds have a dark sclera, which makes the Appaloosa's white sclera stand out.
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Step 2
Notice striped hooves, another trait found in the Appaloosa breed. While other breeds usually have a solid colored hoof that is either completely dark or completely light, an Appaloosa's hoof is usually striped with a pattern of dark and light stripes.
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Step 3
Consider that most Appaloosas have mottled skin. This is especially noticeable on the face (particularly the muzzle area) and under the belly (particularly in the genital area). Rather than solid pink or solid black skin, an Appaloosa's skin has a mottled pattern made up of those two colors.
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Step 4
Take note of the mane and tail. Although it is becoming less common, in the past many Appaloosas had a sparse mane and tail, often referred to as a "rat tail." Although modern breeders are producing horses with thick, full manes and tails, some Appaloosa horses still sport this characteristic.
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Step 5
Observe the coat. Many, although not all, Appaloosas have a spotted coat. Their spots can come in a variety of patterns, ranging from large, well defined spots to a light, almost invisible "snowflake" pattern. The spots are usually round and uniform in appearance, as opposed to the larger and more "blotchy" color pattern typically found on pinto and paint horses. Some Appaloosas have a white "blanket" extended over their backs and/or rumps that may or may not have spots.
