The Appaloosa complex is made up of two genes, Leopard and PATN1, with each combination producing slightly different spotted patterns. It can be affected by the W20 gene, producing a horse with larger white areas or smaller spots.
Blanket Appaloosa
A blanket Appaloosa has a white "blanket" over the rump, with variable sized spots throughout.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/n or n/Lp | n/n |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Blanket | Moderate Blanket |
 |  |
| Extensive Blanket | |
 | |
Snowflake Appaloosa
A snowflake Appaloosa has a white spots over the rump.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/n or n/Lp | n/n |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Snowflake | Extensive Snowflake |
 |  |
Varnish Appaloosa
A varnish Appaloosa has roan flecking throughout the body, with some "spots" where there is no roaning.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/n or n/Lp | n/n |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Varnish | |
 |
Snowcap Appaloosa
A snowcap Appaloosa has a white over the rump with no spotting.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/Lp | n/n |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Snowcap | Extensive Snowcap |
 |  |
Leopard Appaloosa
A leopard Appaloosa is white with dark spots throughout the body, legs and face.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/n or n/Lp | PATN1/n or n/PATN1 PATN1/PATN1 |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Leopard | Extensive Leopard |
 |  |
Ghost Appaloosa
A ghost Appaloosa is white with few, small dark spots.
| Genetic Panel | |
| Leopard | PATN1 |
| Lp/Lp | PATN1/n or n/PATN1 PATN1/PATN1 |
| Patterns | |
| Classic Ghost | Extensive Ghost |
 |  |