Primitive markings are a group of hair coat markings and qualities seen in several equine species, including horses, donkeys, and asses. In horses, they are associated with primitive breeds, though not limited to such breeds. The markings are particularly associated with the dun coat color family. All dun horses possess at least the dorsal stripe, but the presence of the other primitive markings varies. Other common markings may include horizontal striping on the legs, transverse striping across the shoulders, and lighter guard hairs along the edges of a dark mane and tail.
Przewalski's horse is thought to be similar in appearance to ancestors of today's domestic horses.
A cave painting of a wild horse, Lascaux
Kiangs have bold dorsal stripes.
Leg bars and "zippers": This horse's legs have been shaved.
Horses exhibit a diverse array of coat colors and distinctive markings. A specialized vocabulary has evolved to describe them.
Three horses with different coat colors
Bay (left) and chestnut (right) mustangs.
A black horse
A dapple gray