tovero

Tovero is a color pattern found in horses, characterized by a specific distribution of white and dark hairs. It is essentially a type of pinto coloration, but with distinct markings. A tovero horse typically exhibits a large white blaze or a white face with dark eyes, often referred to as "wall eyes" if they are blue. The body often has large, irregular patches of dark color, which can be black, bay, chestnut, or any other base coat color. These patches are usually well-defined and do not appear roan or fleabitten.

Unlike other pinto patterns like tobiano or overo, tovero does not follow a strict genetic inheritance pattern that is easily categorized into either tobiano or overo. Instead, it is believed to be a combination or overlap of genes responsible for both tobiano and overo patterns. This results in markings that don't fit neatly into the definitions of either pure tobiano or pure overo. For instance, a tovero might have the leg white characteristic of tobiano but the head white and belly spots associated with overo.

Visually, tovero horses can be quite striking due to the bold contrast between their dark base coat and large white areas. The white markings often extend up the legs and across the body in irregular shapes. The presence of blue eyes is not uncommon in tovero individuals, which adds to their distinctive appearance. Understanding the tovero pattern is important for breeders and owners as it relates to the genetic basis of color and pattern in horses.