What type of horse coat is characterized by irregular dark and white patches?

The type of horse coat characterized by irregular dark and white patches is known as pinto. Pinto horses have a distinct color pattern where large areas of white are interspersed with dark colors, such as black, brown, or chestnut. This striking color pattern is one of the most recognizable and sought after in the horse world, often associated with a variety of breeds.

Roans, on the other hand, have a coat where white hairs are mixed with colored hairs, resulting in a less distinct and more uniform color appearance rather than the stark contrast found in pintos. Bay refers to a solid brown horse with black points (mane, tail, and lower legs), while chestnut describes a solid reddish-brown horse without any black points. Neither bay nor chestnut would exhibit the irregular patchwork pattern characteristic of a pinto coat. Therefore, the identification of pinto as the correct answer is confirmed by its unique and recognizable coat composition.