Aztecas were developed in 1972 in Mexico, and can trace their bloodlines to Andalusians, American Quarter Horses and Mexican Criollos. Since 1982 they have been the National Horse of Mexico.

Once the breed came to the United States, American Paint Horses were added to their bloodlines. The American "sub-breed" is known as the American Azteca. Between the two, they vary slightly in color and requirements for registration. Mexican Aztecas come in solid colors only, while American Aztecas can have pinto markings.

Aztecas are mainly used for reining, cutting, team penning, and roping. Because of their athletic build, they are also used for dressage. They are well-muscled horses, with a broad croup and chest, as well as long, sloping shoulders. Their gates are derived from their Andalusian ancestry.

Height: 14.3 - 16.1 hands

Weight: 1000 - 1200 pounds

Coat Colors: All solid colors (Mexican); pinto (American)

Markings: White on face & lower legs

Conformation: Strong & well-muscled, broad-chested with sloping shoulders

Common Uses: Reining, cutting, roping, team penning, dressage, polo, bullfighting

Temperament: Docile, easy to train, graceful

Place of Origin: Mexico