The Silken Windhound is a sleek, elegant sighthound breed known for its speed, agility, and affectionate nature. With a distinctive flowing, silky coat, this breed stands out for its beauty and athleticism. Silken Windhounds are graceful runners, excelling in activities like lure coursing and agility,
yet they are also calm and loving companions at home. Their friendly and social temperament makes them ideal for families or individuals looking for a loyal, playful dog. Despite their high energy outdoors, they balance it with a gentle, relaxed nature indoors, making them a versatile and adaptable breed.
The History of the Silken Windhound
The Silken Windhound is a relatively new breed, with its origins dating back to the mid-1980s in the United States. The breed was developed by Francie Stull, a renowned Borzoi breeder and co-founder of the breed, who aimed to create a smaller, more versatile sighthound with the grace and elegance of larger hounds but in a more manageable size. Stull began by crossing her champion Borzoi lines with Whippets to combine the best qualities of both breeds, including speed, agility, and a luxurious coat.
The Silken Windhound quickly gained recognition for its unique blend of beauty, athleticism, and a friendly, social temperament. As the breed grew in popularity, breeders carefully refined the Silken Windhound’s traits, solidifying its distinctive silky coat, balanced build, and easygoing nature. Over time, the breed has gained attention in competitive dog sports like lure coursing and agility, thanks to its natural speed and sighthound instincts.
While still a rare breed, the Silken Windhound has grown in popularity, attracting active dog enthusiasts and families seeking a loyal, affectionate companion. The International Silken Windhound Society (ISWS) was established to oversee the breed’s development and ensure its continued health and standardization. Today, Silken Windhounds are beloved for their beauty, performance, and loving companionship, embodying the essence of an agile, elegant sighthound in a more accessible form.
Fascinating Facts About the Silken Windhound
Silky Coat:
One of the most striking features of the Silken Windhound is its luxurious, soft coat, which can come in a variety of colors and patterns. Despite its silky appearance, the coat is relatively low maintenance, requiring regular brushing to prevent tangling.
Sighthound Speed:
Silken Windhounds are built for speed and can run incredibly fast like other sighthounds. They excel in lure coursing, which mimics hunting by chasing a mechanically operated lure across an open field.
Friendly and Social:
Silken Windhounds are known for their outgoing and friendly nature. They typically get along well with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them great family pets.
Moderate Size:
Silken Windhounds are smaller than many other sighthound breeds, typically standing between 18 to 24 inches at the shoulder and weighing 20 to 45 pounds. This makes them easier to handle and suitable for various living environments.
Agility and Grace:
In addition to their speed, Silken Windhounds are highly agile and capable of sharp turns and quick movements. They thrive in agility sports, where they can demonstrate their natural athleticism.
Relaxed at Home:
While energetic and fast outdoors, Silken Windhounds are known to be calm and gentle indoors. They love to snuggle with their owners, making them perfect companions for a relaxed lifestyle.
Hypoallergenic Qualities:
Though not entirely hypoallergenic, their silky coat is less prone to shedding than some other breeds, making them a good choice for people with mild allergies.
Intelligent and Trainable:
Silken Windhounds are brilliant and respond well to positive training methods. They enjoy learning new tasks and are eager to please their owners, though they can sometimes have an independent streak, typical of sighthounds.
Relatively New Breed:
The Silken Windhound is a newer breed, developed in the late 20th century, and is still gaining recognition globally. However, it has a dedicated following and breed clubs to ensure its preservation.
Longevity:
Silken Windhounds have a relatively long lifespan for a dog of their size, often living 12 to 16 years with proper care, making them a long-term companion.
Size of the Silken Windhound
Silken Windhounds are a medium-sized sighthound breed known for their sleek, athletic build. On average, they stand between 18 to 24 inches (45 to 61 cm) tall at the shoulder. In terms of weight, they typically range from 20 to 45 pounds (9 to 20 kg), depending on gender and overall build.
Despite their graceful appearance and slender frame, they are sturdy and well-proportioned. This moderate size makes them easier to manage than some of the larger sighthounds while still retaining the speed and agility characteristic of the group.
Nature of the Silken Windhound
The Silken Windhound is known for its gentle, affectionate, and friendly nature. This breed is highly social, often forming strong bonds with its family and getting along well with children and other pets, including dogs and sometimes cats. They are known for their loyalty and tend to be sensitive to the emotions of their owners, making them excellent companions.
While they have an energetic side outdoors, excelling in activities like running and lure coursing, Silken Windhounds are generally calm and relaxed indoors. They enjoy being close to their humans and are often content to snuggle on the couch, making them well-suited for active and quieter households.
Though intelligent and eager to please, Silken Windhounds can sometimes exhibit some independence, typical of many sighthounds. Positive reinforcement and patient training works best with this breed, as they respond well to kindness and encouragement. Overall, their playful yet composed temperament and affectionate and friendly demeanor make them an adaptable and loving companion for various lifestyles.
Comprehensive Care Guide for Your Silken Windhound
Caring for a Silken Windhound is relatively straightforward, as they are a low-maintenance breed that balances an active lifestyle with calm, affectionate behavior at home. However, like all breeds, they require specific attention to their grooming, exercise, diet, and overall health to thrive. Here’s a guide to providing the best care for your Silken Windhound:
1. Grooming:
Silken Windhounds have a beautiful, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep them in top condition. Brushing them a few times weekly will help prevent tangles and mats, particularly around the ears and tail. Despite their flowing coat, they shed moderately, making them relatively easy to care for compared to other long-coated breeds. Occasional baths will keep their coat clean and shiny, and checking their ears regularly for any signs of infection or wax buildup is essential.
2. Exercise:
As a sighthound, the Silken Windhound naturally loves running and needs regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs in a secure area, or playtime in a fenced yard are essential to meet their exercise needs. They particularly excel in sports like lure coursing and agility, which allow them to showcase their speed and agility. However, while they are energetic outdoors, they are generally calm and laid-back inside the home, so they don’t require constant activity throughout the day.
3. Diet:
A well-balanced, high-quality diet is essential for maintaining your Silken Windhound’s health and energy levels. Ensure they receive the right amount of protein and nutrients for their size and activity level. Be mindful of portion control to prevent overfeeding, as maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for avoiding strain on their joints and overall well-being.
4. Mental Stimulation:
Although Silken Windhounds are known for athleticism, they also benefit from mental stimulation. They enjoy learning new things and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods, though, like many sighthounds, they may occasionally display some independent thinking.
5. Health Maintenance:
Silken Windhounds are generally a healthy breed with a longer lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care such as flea, tick, and heartworm protection are essential to keep them in peak health. While the breed is typically robust, regular monitoring for signs of illness or discomfort will help catch potential issues early.
6. Socialization:
From a young age, it’s essential to socialize your Silken Windhound with various people, animals, and environments to ensure they grow into a well-adjusted adult. Their naturally friendly and curious disposition means they usually get along well with other dogs and enjoy being part of a family.
By providing balanced care that includes regular exercise, proper grooming, a healthy diet, and mental stimulation, your Silken Windhound will remain a happy, healthy, and loving companion for many years.
Health Considerations for the Silken Windhound
The Silken Windhound is generally a healthy and robust breed with a longer-than-average lifespan of 12 to 16 years. However, like all dogs, they can be prone to specific genetic or breed-specific health issues that responsible owners should be aware of. With proper care, regular vet check-ups, and attention to their overall well-being, most Silken Windhounds live long, happy, and healthy lives. Here are some important health considerations for this breed:
1. Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):
One of the most notable health concerns in Silken Windhounds is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, a genetic condition that affects the eyes and can lead to gradual vision loss over time. It’s vital to source your Silken Windhound from breeders who perform genetic testing to reduce the risk of passing on PRA. Regular eye check-ups can help monitor any potential issues early on.
2. Cardiac Health:
Some Silken Windhounds may be prone to heart issues, such as mitral valve disease, affecting the heart’s ability to function correctly. Routine veterinary examinations, including heart auscultations, can help detect any early signs of cardiac issues and allow for timely intervention.
3. Hip Dysplasia:
Although not as common in Silken Windhounds as in larger breeds, hip dysplasia can occasionally affect them. This condition involves the improper development of the hip joint, which can lead to pain and arthritis as the dog ages. Maintaining a healthy weight and ensuring regular, appropriate exercise can help minimize the risk of hip dysplasia.
4. Vaccine Sensitivity:
Some Silken Windhounds, like other sighthounds, may show sensitivity to certain medications or vaccines. It’s essential to work closely with your veterinarian to ensure they receive the appropriate treatments in the correct doses, as these sensitivities can vary from dog to dog.
5. Healthy Weight Maintenance:
Silken Windhounds are naturally slender and athletic, but monitoring their diet is essential to maintaining a healthy weight. Being underweight or overweight can put unnecessary stress on their joints and internal organs. Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and avoiding overfeeding or excessive treats is critical to preventing weight-related issues.
6. Dental Health:
Like many breeds, Silken Windhounds benefit from regular dental care. Regular brushing of their teeth and providing dental chews can help prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. To maintain good oral hygiene, routine dental cleanings at the vet may also be necessary.
7. Routine Veterinary Care:
Regular vet check-ups are vital to the overall health of the Silken Windhound. These visits should include vaccinations, blood work, heartworm prevention, and physical examinations to detect potential issues early. Monitoring their overall health, especially as they age, can help extend their life and ensure they remain active and healthy throughout their senior years.
By staying on top of routine care and proactively addressing potential health issues, Silken Windhound owners can ensure their dogs live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives.
Feeding Your Silken Windhound: Essential Nutritional Guidelines
Feeding a Silken Windhound involves providing a balanced diet tailored to their specific needs as an active, medium-sized sighthound. Here are some essential guidelines for feeding your Silken Windhound:
1. High-Quality Dog Food:
Choose a high-quality dog food that lists meat as the first ingredient and is formulated for active, medium-sized breeds. Look for protein-rich options, as sighthounds require a diet that supports their energy levels and muscular build.
2. Life Stage Considerations:
Select a dog food appropriate for your Silken Windhound’s life stage—puppy, adult, or senior. Puppies require a diet that supports growth and development, while adults need a maintenance formula that helps sustain their energy.
3. Portion Control:
Silken Windhounds can be prone to obesity if overfed, so it’s essential to control their portions according to their size, age, and activity level. Follow the feeding guidelines on the dog food packaging, adjusting the amounts based on your dog’s individual needs and activity levels.
4. Feeding Schedule:
Establish a regular feeding schedule, typically two meals daily for adults, to maintain stable energy levels and prevent overeating. More frequent feedings (three to four times a day) may be necessary for puppies to meet their growing needs.
5. Healthy Treats:
While treats can be a valuable tool for training and bonding, offering them in moderation is essential. Opt for healthy, low-calorie treats or fruits and vegetables safe for dogs, such as carrots or green beans.
6. Special Dietary Needs:
Some Silken Windhounds may have special dietary needs due to health issues or sensitivities. If you notice any digestive problems, food allergies, or weight fluctuations, consult your veterinarian for guidance on appropriate dietary adjustments or specialized foods.
7. Avoid Human Food:
While sharing your meals with your Silken Windhound might be tempting, many human foods can harm dogs.
8. Monitor Weight and Health:
Regularly monitor your Silken Windhound’s weight and overall condition. You should be able to feel their ribs without excess fat covering, and they should have a defined waistline.
By following these feeding guidelines, you can help ensure your Silken Windhound maintains optimal health, energy, and a healthy weight throughout their life.
Specialization of Each Body Part in the Silken Windhound
The Silken Windhound is a remarkable breed with unique physical attributes that enhance its abilities as a sighthound. Each part of its body is specialized for agility, speed, and performance. Here’s a look at the specialization of various body parts in the Silken Windhound:
1. Head:
The Silken Windhound has a refined, wedge-shaped head with a long, elegant muzzle. This shape aids in aerodynamics while running, allowing for less wind resistance. Their large, expressive eyes contribute to their keen vision, which is essential for spotting prey from a distance.
2. Ears:
Their medium-sized, slightly rounded ears are set high and can be erect or folded, depending on their mood. These ears are susceptible, enabling the Silken Windhound to detect sounds from far away, which is crucial for a breed that relies on acute hearing during hunts.
3. Neck:
The long, graceful neck of the Silken Windhound allows for a free range of motion and helps maintain balance while running at high speeds.
4. Body:
Their slim, athletic build and well-defined waistline provide the necessary balance between strength and agility. The ribcage is deep and well-sprung, providing ample lung capacity for oxygen intake, vital for stamina during sprints.
5. Legs:
The long, muscular legs of the Silken Windhound are designed for speed and endurance. Their powerful hindquarters contribute to explosive acceleration, while their front legs allow for stable, controlled movements.
6. Feet:
Silken Windhounds have compact, oval-shaped feet with strong pads, providing excellent traction and shock absorption. Their feet are built for quick movements and adaptability on various surfaces, allowing them to run swiftly and maneuver effectively.
7. Tail:
The long, tapered tail serves multiple purposes. It acts as a counterbalance while running, helping maintain stability and agility. Additionally, it is often held high and can be expressive, conveying the dog’s emotions and excitement during play or social interactions.
8. Coat:
The Silken Windhound’s distinctive silky coat enhances its beauty and serves functional purposes. The double coat provides insulation in cooler weather while keeping them cool in warmer climates.
9. Eyes:
Large and expressive, the Silken Windhound’s eyes are designed for optimal vision, essential for spotting movement in the distance.
Conclusion
The Silken Windhound is a remarkable breed combining elegance, agility, and a gentle temperament. Each specialized body part contributes to its impressive athleticism and adaptability, making it well-suited for various activities, from lure coursing to family companionship. With their graceful appearance and affectionate nature, Silken Windhounds are stunning to behold and make loyal, loving pets. Proper care, including attention to nutrition, exercise, and health monitoring, ensures that these dogs lead happy, fulfilling lives. Whether running at full speed in an open field or snuggling on the couch, the Silken Windhound embodies the perfect blend of beauty and companionship, captivating the hearts of those fortunate enough to share their lives with them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Silken Windhounds
1. What is the temperament of a Silken Windhound?
Silken Windhounds are known for their friendly, affectionate, and gentle nature. They are social dogs that typically get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions.
2. How much exercise does a Silken Windhound need?
Silken Windhounds require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, playtime, and activities, like lure coursing or agility training, are essential for meeting their energy needs.
3. Are Silken Windhounds good with other pets?
Silken Windhounds are generally good with other pets, including dogs and cats. Their friendly disposition allows them to coexist peacefully with various animals, especially when properly socialized from a young age.
4. What type of grooming do Silken Windhounds require?
Silken Windhounds have a silky coat that requires regular brushing, usually a few times a week, to prevent tangles and mats. Occasional baths and routine checks of their ears and teeth are also crucial for maintaining their overall health and cleanliness.
5. What common health issues should I be aware of with Silken Windhounds?
While generally healthy, Silken Windhounds can be prone to certain genetic conditions, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and heart issues.
