Alter Real

The Alter Real is a Portuguese horse strain closely associated with the Alter do Chao stud and the classical riding tradition of the Lusitano. Founded in the eighteenth century, it is a baroque riding horse with expressive movement and a strong aptitude for collected work. Many Alter Real horses are bay, though the strain is best defined by breeding history and riding type rather than color alone.

Alter Real horses are kept for dressage, classical equitation, breeding, and heritage preservation. They need thoughtful schooling that develops strength behind, balance, and confidence rather than rushing collection. Buyers should look for soundness, temperament, and verified breeding, because the name carries historical meaning within Portuguese horse culture. A well-managed Alter Real can be athletic and sensitive, so handling should be consistent and skilled without being heavy-handed.

Colors: Amber Champagne, Bay, Bay Dun, Bay Roan, Black, Blanket Appaloosa, Blue Roan, Brown, Buckskin, Champagne, Chestnut, Classic Champagne, Cremello, Dun, Dun Roan, Fewspot Appaloosa, Flaxen Chestnut, Frame Overo, Gold Champagne, Gray, Grey, Grullo, Leopard Appaloosa, Liver Chestnut, Overo, Palomino, Perlino, Piebald, Pinto, Rabicano, Red Dun, Red Roan, Roan, Sabino, Seal Bay, Silver Dapple, Skewbald, Smoky Black, Smoky Cream, Snowcap Appaloosa, Sorrel, Splash White, Tobiano, Tovero, Varnish Roan, White