About APHA

About APHA

The American Paint Horse Association is one of the largest equine breed registries in the world. Known for their beautiful coat patterns and athletic nature, Paint Horses are one of the most popular breeds of horses. Our members are as diverse as our horses, with members across the world. Paint Horse and APHA members not only compete but excel in nearly every discipline there is.

APHA Founder, Rebecca Tyler Lockhart, with her Paint Horse.

APHA History

Over 60 years ago, Rebecca Tyler Lockhart was inspired to create a breed registry to promote and preserve colorful, stock-type Paint Horses. The horsewoman rallied fellow horsemen who shared her vision. On February 16, 1962, a group of 16 gathered at a café in Gainesville, Texas, where they formed the American Paint Stock Horse Association. By the end of their first year, they had 150 members and 250 registered horses. Registration No.1 belongs to Bandit’s Pinto, a 1959 black tobiano.

Around the same time, the American Paint Quarter Horse Association began in West Texas with the same goal of registering Paint Horses. In 1965, the two groups merged to become the American Paint Horse Association.

Now the second-largest equine breed association in the world, APHA has registered over a million horses. Paint Horses compete with success in nearly every type of riding discipline. Whether you want to show your horse or simply enjoy a versatile and beautiful companion, Paint Horses are the breed for you.

With their unique markings and athletic nature, Paint Horses are truly marked for greatness.

The first APHA registered Paint Horse, Bandit's Pinto, a black tobiano stallion.

Our Mission

We promote, preserve and provide meaningful experiences with Paint Horses.

Our Values

  • The American Paint Horse and those people who treat them gently, humanely and with respect.
  • The unique skills and talents of our members.
  • The equine industry and working with other organizations to achieve shared goals and ideals.
  • Those who conform to accepted form-to-function conformation standards, which contribute to the breed’s versatility.
  • All programs and services that promote a rich family life for our members and encourage leisure activities, recreation and fun.
  • Long range planning, sound financial policies and continued investment in the future of APHA.
Two people riding their Paint Horses together in a field.

Become a Member

Join the APHA family! With members worldwide and great benefits, such as access to our award-winning magazines, exclusive discounts and more, you don’t want to miss out. Join APHA today!

Two Paint Horses running through a field.

Register Your Horse

Registered Paint Horses are more valuable and desired. Register and transfer your Paint Horse to maximize your horse’s opportunities to cement his or her legacy in the breed, from the competition arena to the breeding barn and beyond.

A youth exhibitor leaving the show arena with their Paint Horse.

Compete on your Paint

From all-around events and down-the-track racing to cutting and show jumping—and everything in between—APHA has a place for you to shine with your Paint Horse. Learn more today!