Palomino is a colour type not a breed. America is the only country in the world that recognises the Palomino as breed.

The Palomino colour occurs from a colour dilution gene known as the cream gene. When the cream gene acts it produces a lighter coat colour.

In the case of the Palomino the cream gene is acting on a chestnut base colour. The cream gene lightens the chestnut base colour to varying shades of gold.

The Palomino colour constitutes of a golden coloured body, the ideal colour can be described as a newly minted gold coin.  The shades of gold vary from light gold being almost cream to a dark gold almost chestnut colour. The palominos mane and tail can range in shade from cream to silvery white. Palominos have dark skin apart from under white markings and usually have dark brown, amber or hazel eyes.

Palominos are a sought after colour as they are uncommon and exceptionally beautiful horses.

As the Palomino is a colour type a variety of breeds and cross breeds can have Palomino colouring, therefore Palomino horses and ponies can vary in height, type and temperament and can be used for a wide range of equestrian pursuits.