Silken Windhound

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Silken Windhound is a rare sighthound coursing dog breed that originated in USA. It was developed by Francie Stull, breeder of champion Borzoi by crossing champion Borzois with whippet dogs. The aim was to fill the empty slot of a medium size coursing sighthound which the Silken Windhound now fills so very well.

Standing between 18-24 inches and weighing 33-55 lbs, the Silken Windhound is a graceful, small to medium-sized sighthound with a moderately long silky coat. This breed owes its unique appearance, elegant build, and the athleticism of a true coursing dog to champion Borzoi and Whippet ancestors. The moderately long head comes with strong muzzle that leads to dark nose. Almond-shaped eyes are dark and large. Mobile ears are small and fine in texture. The long, slender, well muscled and slightly arched neck widens gradually into shoulders. This dog has a short back, and long, wide and muscular loin. Deep chest has moderately sprung ribs. Long and flexible tail falls in sweeping curves. The silky, luxurious coat can be straight, slightly wavy or curly and comes in all colouring and markings.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by UKC.

Color

All colours and markings are acceptable for this breed.

Coat

The Silken Windhound has an all-weather, medium length, soft and silky coat that may be straight, wavy or curly. It is longer on back of forelegs, brisket, hindquarters, around the neck and tail while shorter on face, feet, front of forelegs and hocks.

Personality

The Silken Windhound is not only an elegant coursing breed but it also makes an excellent family pet with its sweet and docile nature. The dog is very loving, affectionate and gentle with its family. It forms a strong bond with its family. They are great playmates of children with their lively, playful and friendly nature. Very intelligent and eager to please, these dogs are responsive to positive and gentle training. They will not make very good guard dogs due to their trusting and friendly nature. The dog not only excels in racing and coursing games, it is also successful in agility, therapy, flyball and obedience. Though it can fit into apartment lifestyle, the Silken Windhound would need to be taken for daily walks and play in an open area. These dogs are as comfortable in the sporting field as they are on the couch in home with their family.

Care

The straight, wavy or curly coat of Silken Windhound is low maintenance with only weekly brushing needed to keep the coat in top condition. Bathing is needed only when necessary. This dog is not a heavy shedder.

Training

The Silken Windhounds are easy to train dogs with their eager to please and docile nature. The owner must display proper leadership skills and use positive training methods as this breed will not respond to harsh training methods. Reward based positive training will yield desired results from this breed.

Activity

Though Silken Windhounds can adapt to apartment living, they do have high exercise needs. The master should take this dog for daily walks. Preferably, this breed will be happiest with a large yard to play and run as and when it wants.