Horse breeds / Cuban Paso
Horse breed
Cuban Paso
The Cuban Paso is a gaited horse developed in Cuba from Spanish colonial stock, with influence from Paso Fino and other Iberian and Latin American lines. It was bred as a practical riding and light work horse, valued for a comfortable, smooth gait over long distances on the island's terrain.
Owners often describe the Cuban Paso as a willing, people-oriented horse with a smooth, ground-covering way of going that suits relaxed trail riding. Its gait is generally easy to sit, which makes it a reasonable choice for riders who are newer to horses, though training and consistent handling still matter. Many are kind and attentive, and they tend to form close bonds with their handlers.
Day to day, the breed needs regular work, ideally a mix of riding, in-hand exercise, and turnout. It is social and does best with company, whether a pasture mate or regular human contact. Good hoof care, dental checks, and a consistent routine help keep it comfortable and content.
Good for: First-time owners, trail riders, gaited riding enthusiasts
| Size | medium |
| Weight | 882–1102 lb |
| Height | 57–61 in |
| Life span | 25–30 years |
| Exercise | about 45 min a day |
| Shedding | moderate |
| Origin | Cuba |
Cuban Pasos are sensitive to weight gain, so plan on monitoring body condition and diet from day one.
Living with a Cuban Paso
Exercise
Most healthy adult Cuban Pasos need regular daily work, typically thirty to sixty minutes of riding or in-hand exercise, plus turnout. With too little activity they can become bored, overweight, or restless, which may show up as behavioral issues.
Grooming
The coat is typically short and easy to maintain, needing regular brushing and occasional bathing. Mane and tail should be detangled gently and trimmed as desired. Hooves need regular trimming or shoeing every four to eight weeks. Clipping is seldom necessary except in heavy work or in warm climates
At home
Cuban Pasos generally do well with regular turnout, with daily access to pasture or a paddock when possible. They are typically hardy and adapt to a range of climates with proper shelter and care. They are happiest in a small group rather than alone. As a rule they are moderate keepers, and feed should be adjusted to body condition, so owners should monitor weight closely.
Training
Cuban Pasos are usually quick to learn and respond well to patient, consistent handling. They are most often ridden for trail, pleasure, and gaited riding, and many enjoy light showing. A green horse should be expected to need steady groundwork and gradual introduction to the gait, with progress taking time rather than being rushed.
Health
Like many gaited and easy-keeping breeds, Cuban Pasos may be prone to weight-related conditions such as laminitis and metabolic concerns, so diet and body condition matter. Ask a veterinarian about breed-specific risks, appropriate screening, and a suitable preventive care plan for your horse.
- Laminitis
- Metabolic issues
- Colic
Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.
The numbers for a Cuban Paso
Forage and water, adult
15–25 lb of hay a day
Forage at 1.5–2.5% of body weight at 882–1102 lb, and 9–16 gallons of water, more in heat and on hay alone. Grain only for the work being done.
What a year costs
$2,950–$5,050
Hay about $1,752, plus farrier every 6–8 weeks, routine vet, dental and dewormer. Board, lessons and showing on top; US averages.
Weather
Watch above 85°F, stop at 95°F
Blanket or shelter below 20°F. Bred for heat: fine working in warm weather with water and salt, but a thin coat and skin want a blanket and shelter below about 20°F.
Where a Cuban Paso is comfortable
Easy most of the year: Alabama, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington, DC, West Virginia, Wyoming.
Summer needs care (early rides, shade, fans): Arizona, Nevada.
Winter needs care (blanket, shelter, water that is not frozen): Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin.
From typical July highs and January lows by state and this breed's heat and cold limits. Shade, shelter and water change everything; this is about turnout and work.
Right now
Latest feed recalls
Multiple Brand Names: Chicken Feed, Swine Feed, Cattle Feed, Horse Feed
ADM Animal Nutrition · Apr 1 · Specific lots may contain elevated levels of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium and/or chloride and may harm chickens, swine, beef cattle and equine.
Rescue a Cuban Paso
Shelters and breed rescues list Cuban Pasos and Cuban Paso mixes every week. Search adoptable Cuban Pasos on Petfinder → New to the breed? The first-horse kit →
Is a Cuban Paso right for you?
- Yes if you want a smooth, comfortable gait for trail riding
- Yes if you enjoy a sociable, people-oriented horse
- Yes if you can commit to daily work and turnout
- Think twice if you need a horse for competitive jumping
- Think twice if you cannot monitor weight and diet closely
Questions owners ask
Is the Cuban Paso good for beginners?
Many are suitable for beginners thanks to their smooth gait and generally willing temperament, though they still need consistent handling and an experienced person to guide training.
How much does a Cuban Paso cost?
Prices vary widely by bloodline, age, training, and region. Contact reputable breeders or sellers in your area for current pricing rather than relying on a single figure.
How tall do Cuban Pasos get?
Adults typically stand around 145 to 155 centimeters at the withers, which is roughly 14.2 to 15.2 hands, though individual horses vary.
How long do Cuban Pasos live?
With good care they often live into their mid to late twenties or beyond, with diet, dental care, and hoof care playing key roles.
Are Cuban Pasos easy keepers?
Many are relatively easy keepers, so owners should watch weight carefully and adjust feed and turnout to avoid obesity and related health problems.
Similar breeds
Written by Hoofdeck editors · updated Nov 13, 2026 · facts from Wikidata; health notes are general veterinary guidance, not a diagnosis.