Silken Windhound

Get to Know Silken Windhounds

• Elegant and Graceful: The Silken Windhound is a graceful and rare breed known for its sleek, elegant appearance and affectionate personality. Developed in the late 20th century, this breed is a relatively new addition to the sighthound family. Its creation is credited to breeder Francie Stull, who sought to develop a medium-sized sighthound with the beauty and agility of larger breeds like Borzoi, but with a more manageable size and coat. The result was the Silken Windhound, a dog that combines athleticism with an easy-going and lovable temperament.
• Growing Popularity: Another intriguing fact about the Silken Windhound is its rarity and growing popularity among dog enthusiasts. As a newer breed, it is still relatively uncommon, but its unique combination of beauty, athleticism, and sweet temperament has earned it a devoted following. The International Silken Windhound Society was established to promote and preserve the breed, which continues to captivate dog lovers with its charm and elegance. Whether as a companion or a competitor, the Silken Windhound is a breed that effortlessly combines style, grace, and affection.
• Agility & Speed: Silken Windhounds are known for their agility and speed, traits inherited from their sighthound lineage. While they were not bred specifically for hunting, they possess the same keen eyesight and lightning-fast reflexes that make sighthounds exceptional at coursing. Many Silken Windhounds excel in lure coursing and other canine sports, where their athleticism and competitive spirit shine. These activities provide them with an excellent outlet for their energy while engaging their natural instincts.
• Low Grooming Needs: Their silky coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Silken Windhound is its luxurious coat. True to its name, the breed boasts a soft, silky coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from solid shades to striking parti-colored or brindle combinations. Despite their glamorous appearance, their coat is relatively low-maintenance and only requires regular brushing to keep it free of tangles. Their fine coat also makes them well-suited to indoor living, as it doesn’t shed excessively.
• Social and Friendly: They get along well with other dogs and are generally friendly with people. Perhaps one of the breed's most endearing qualities is its friendly and sociable nature. Silken Windhounds are known to be incredibly affectionate and bond closely with their families. They are great with children and other pets, making them a wonderful choice for families. Despite their athletic ability, they are surprisingly calm and adaptable indoors, often content to lounge on the couch with their favorite humans. This balance of energy and calmness makes them a versatile companion for a variety of lifestyles.

Breed History

The Silken Windhound is a relatively new breed, developed in the United States in the 1980s by crossing Whippets with various sighthound breeds, including the Borzoi. The aim was to create a breed that retained the grace and athleticism of sighthounds, but in a smaller, more versatile package. Known for their silky coat, agility, and gentle temperament, Silken Windhounds quickly became popular among those interested in sighthound sports and as family companions. They are recognized for their speed, endurance, and ability to adapt to both competitive racing and relaxed home life.

Personality and Behaviour

• Gentle and Affectionate: Silken Windhounds are known for their calm, affectionate nature. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive on companionship, often seeking out human interaction and cuddling.
• Intelligent and Independent: This breed is intelligent, but their independent nature can sometimes make training a challenge. With the right guidance and positive reinforcement, they respond well to training, especially when it involves mental stimulation.
• Energetic and Playful: Despite their elegant and serene appearance, Silken Windhounds are highly energetic and enjoy regular exercise. They love to run and play, making them excellent companions for active households or those with access to safe, open spaces.

Care

• Exercise: Silken Windhounds are active dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health. They enjoy running and playing, and a fenced yard or access to open spaces is ideal. Daily walks and occasional play sessions help to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. While they have a lot of energy, they also enjoy lounging indoors with their family.
• Grooming: Silken Windhounds have a long, silky coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent tangling. Brushing several times a week helps to keep their coat shiny and free from mats. Bathing should be done as needed, and regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care are important for overall hygiene.
• Training and Socialization: Training should begin early to ensure that the Silken Windhound grows into a well-mannered adult. This breed responds best to positive reinforcement techniques and consistency. Early socialization with other dogs, people, and environments is essential to help them develop confidence and reduce any potential shyness.