Silken Windhound Dog Breed: Complete Care & Temperament Guide

Introduction to the Silken Windhound

The elegant Silken Windhound is a small to medium-sized sighthound known for its graceful lines and remarkable speed. Despite their delicate appearance, these dogs are robust with impressive stamina, originally bred as hunters but now cherished family pets due to their gentle nature and striking coat.

History and Origin of the Silken Windhound

The Silken Windhound originated in the United States in the 1980s from a Borzoi breeder aiming to create a smaller dog with the same luxurious coat and elegance as the Borzoi. By crossing Borzois with Whippets and Whippet-type lurchers, the breed was developed—officially named in 1998. The International Silken Windhound Society began DNA-verified registrations in 1999 and set the breed standard in 2001. While gaining worldwide popularity, they remain unrecognised by some major kennel clubs but are increasingly loved for their friendly temperament and athleticism.

Appearance and Physical Characteristics

Silken Windhounds possess an athletic and well-muscled build with a top line rising smoothly from behind the withers to the last rib. Their coats are silky, ranging from straight to wavy or curly, adorned with feathering around ears and face that accentuates their elegance. Colours vary including brindle, red, black, sable, white, or black and tan. Males typically stand 46–60 cm tall and weigh 15–25 kg, while females weigh 10–20 kg, slightly lighter but equally graceful.

Temperament and Personality Traits

These dogs are intelligent and playful, forging strong bonds with their families. They crave companionship and enjoy being involved in daily activities. Although gentle and not easily timid, Silken Windhounds can be a little independent and aloof, so early socialisation and ongoing positive training are essential to nurture sociable, balanced pets. Due to their sighthound heritage, they have a pronounced prey drive but typically get along well with other pets raised alongside them. They are especially good with children, making excellent family dogs for active homes.

Health Considerations for Silken Windhounds

Silken Windhounds are generally healthy with a notable lifespan around 14 to 18 years when well cared for. Responsible breeders reduce the risk of inherited conditions. A rare but serious condition affecting the breed is Lotus syndrome, linked to fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) in humans. Monitoring your dog’s diet and maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as obesity is a common health concern across breeds. Routine veterinary check-ups and vaccinations ensure ongoing wellbeing throughout their life.

Care and Grooming Needs

Their beautiful silky coat requires regular grooming, ideally brushing a few times weekly to prevent tangling and matting. Bathing every 8 to 12 weeks with gentle dog-friendly shampoo keeps the coat clean and vibrant. Active dogs by nature, Silken Windhounds need significant daily physical exercise alongside mental stimulation to prevent boredom. Regular inspection of ears, eyes, teeth, and nails is important to avoid infections and discomfort. Teaching puppies to accept grooming and handling early helps create a stress-free experience for both pet and owner, and assists vets during health visits.

Finding Silken Windhound Puppies in the UK

When looking to find Silken Windhound puppies, it is vital to seek out reputable breeders who prioritise health, temperament, and ethical breeding practices. Ask about health checks, puppy socialisation, and meet the parents if possible. Responsible ownership ensures you enjoy many happy years with your elegant and energetic companion.

Conclusion

The Silken Windhound is a stunning blend of speed, stamina, and affectionate companionship suitable for active families ready to invest time in exercise and training. Their gentle nature and striking appearance make them truly special pets who thrive with love and proper care. By choosing a responsible breeder and maintaining good health practices, you can enjoy a loyal and graceful friend for many years.