Tobiano
White patches that cross over the back, with rounded edges and usually white legs.
What does this colour look like?
Large, smooth, rounded white areas running vertically over the back, between ears and tail. Often all four legs white, while the head stays largely coloured (with ordinary markings).
- Body
- large white + coloured areas over the back
- Mane and tail
- part white, part coloured
- Legs
- usually white
- Skin
- pink under white, dark under colour
- Eyes
- usually brown
How does this colour arise?
Tobiano gives white that crosses over the back and usually white legs; the head mostly stays coloured.
More about the genetics
Tobiano (TO) is dominant. The pattern crosses the topline, has rounded patch edges and white legs. This sets it apart from overo patterns, which usually do not cross the back. Tobiano combined with overo is called tovero.
What is this colour often confused with?
- Frame overo
Horizontal white patches on the flanks, framed by colour, with the back mostly coloured.
- Sabino
Irregular white markings with a lot of roaning on legs, belly and face.
- Splashed white
As if the horse was dipped in white paint from below: white legs, belly, chest and face, with blue eyes.
Which breeds show this colour?
Discover more
Sources: UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory · Sponenberg, D.P. & Bellone, R.R. (Wiley-Blackwell).