Silken Windhound
United StatesThe Silken Windhound is a rare, graceful sighthound known for its affectionate nature and athletic abilities. Ideal for families and active owners.
Overview
Breed Overview
The Silken Windhound is a rare and elegant breed that embodies the grace and athleticism of sighthounds. Developed in the United States by Francie Stull in the late 1980s, this breed combines the best traits of Borzois and Whippets, resulting in a small to medium-sized dog with a silky coat and a friendly disposition. With a variety of coat colors and patterns, Silken Windhounds are not only visually striking but also versatile companions.
They excel in various dog sports, including lure coursing, agility, and obedience, showcasing their intelligence and athleticism. Their affectionate nature makes them ideal family pets, as they are gentle and playful with children. However, their sighthound instincts mean they may chase small animals if not properly socialized.
Training should be approached with positivity, utilizing reward-based methods to foster a strong bond between owner and dog. With proper care, Silken Windhounds can live long, healthy lives, often reaching their late teens. As a breed, they are gaining recognition and popularity, making them a unique addition to the canine world.
Fun Facts
Silken Windhounds can reach speeds of up to 35 mph during lure coursing events.
Silken Windhounds have a unique ability to bond closely with their families, often following them from room to room.
The breed is recognized for its friendly disposition, making them excellent therapy dogs.
They are known for their graceful movement and elegant appearance, often described as 'floating' when they run.
Similar Breeds
Breed Characteristics
Family & Friends
Good Behavior
Get Up & Go
Household Harmony
Temperament & Personality
✨Key Traits
🐕Core Temperament
The Silken Windhound's temperament is characterized by its friendly and gentle nature. They are typically very affectionate with their families and can be playful and energetic, especially during outdoor activities.
While they are generally good with children and other pets, their sighthound instincts may lead them to chase smaller animals if not properly socialized. They are sensitive dogs that respond best to positive reinforcement training methods, as harsh corrections can lead to fearfulness.
Overall, their temperament makes them excellent companions for families and individuals who can provide them with love, attention, and proper training.
💫Personality Profile
Silken Windhounds are known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They thrive on human companionship and are often described as 'velcro dogs' due to their tendency to stay close to their owners.
Their playful demeanor makes them great companions for children, and they generally get along well with other pets when properly socialized. While they enjoy outdoor activities and running, they also appreciate quiet time at home, making them adaptable to various living situations.
Their intelligence and eagerness to please make them responsive to training, although they require positive reinforcement methods to thrive.
🔊Vocal Tendencies
Silken Windhounds are generally quiet dogs, with a low tendency to bark. They may bark occasionally to alert their owners to unfamiliar sounds or visitors, but they are not known for excessive vocalization.
Their calm demeanor contributes to a peaceful home environment, although they may express excitement or playfulness through soft vocalizations during playtime. Overall, their noise level is manageable, making them suitable for various living situations.
Affection & Social Traits
Energy & Activity
Communication Style
Care Requirements
Exercise
Daily Exercise
The Silken Windhound is an active breed that requires regular exercise to maintain its physical and mental well-being. Ideally, they should engage in at least 60 minutes of exercise daily, which can be broken down into several shorter sessions throughout the day.
Activities such as running, lure coursing, and agility training are particularly beneficial, as they cater to the breed's natural athleticism and sighthound instincts. Puppies may require less intense exercise, focusing on short play sessions to avoid overexertion, while senior dogs may enjoy gentler walks and playtime.
Regular exercise helps prevent behavioral issues such as boredom and anxiety, which can lead to destructive behaviors. Insufficient exercise can result in weight gain and a decrease in overall happiness, making it essential for owners to prioritize their Silken Windhound's activity needs.
Living & Adaptability
Space Requirements
Silken Windhounds thrive in homes with ample space to run and play, but they can adapt to smaller living environments as long as their exercise needs are met. A house with a secure yard is ideal, allowing them to enjoy outdoor activities safely.
For apartment dwellers, regular trips to parks or open spaces are essential to provide the necessary exercise. Their sighthound nature means they may chase small animals, so secure fencing is crucial.
Lack of space or confinement can lead to anxiety and destructive behaviors, so it's important to ensure they have room to move and explore.
Climate Preference
Feeding
Schedule
Food Types
Portion Size
Special Nutritional Needs
Silken Windhounds may have specific dietary sensitivities, particularly to certain medications like ivermectin. It's essential to provide a balanced diet rich in protein and healthy fats to support their active lifestyle. Regular veterinary check-ups can help monitor their health and nutritional needs.
Grooming
Overview
The Silken Windhound has a moderately long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of mats. Brushing should be done at least once a week to remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few months or when they become dirty.
Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are also important to maintain overall hygiene. Their coat is relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds, but attention to grooming will ensure they look their best.
Care Schedule
Health Profile
Health Care
Regular health care is essential for maintaining the Silken Windhound's lifespan. Routine veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive treatments can help detect health issues early and ensure overall well-being.
Owners should also monitor their dog's weight and activity levels, as obesity can lead to various health problems. A proactive approach to health care, including dental hygiene and parasite prevention, will contribute to a longer, healthier life.
Health Issues Overview
Average Lifespan
15 - 20 yearsGenetic Factors
Genetics play a significant role in the Silken Windhound's lifespan, with certain hereditary health issues potentially impacting longevity. Responsible breeding practices aim to reduce the prevalence of genetic disorders, such as deafness and cataracts, by selecting healthy breeding stock. Prospective owners should seek reputable breeders who conduct health testing and prioritize genetic diversity to ensure a healthy lineage.
Living Conditions
The Silken Windhound's lifespan can be influenced by various environmental factors, including housing conditions, climate, and social interactions. Providing a safe, comfortable living space with access to outdoor areas for exercise is crucial.
Regular socialization and interaction with family members can promote mental well-being, while a balanced diet and routine veterinary care contribute to overall health. Exposure to extreme weather conditions should be managed, as Silken Windhounds are sensitive to temperature extremes due to their low body fat.
Common Health Issues
Deafness
Warning Signs
Diagnosis
Veterinary examination and hearing tests.
Treatment
No specific treatment; management includes ensuring a safe environment.
Management Tips
Regular veterinary check-ups and monitoring for signs of hearing loss.
Cataracts
Warning Signs
Diagnosis
Veterinary eye examination.
Treatment
Surgical intervention may be required.
Management Tips
Regular eye check-ups, especially in older dogs.
Cryptorchidism
Warning Signs
Diagnosis
Veterinary examination.
Treatment
Surgical intervention.
Management Tips
Surgical correction may be necessary for affected males.
Umbilical hernia
Warning Signs
Diagnosis
Veterinary examination.
Treatment
Surgical intervention.
Management Tips
Surgical correction may be necessary.
Preventive Care
MDR1 Gene Test
Tests for the presence of the MDR1 gene, which can indicate sensitivity to certain medications.
Annually or before administering any medications.
Ophthalmic Examination
Routine eye examinations to check for cataracts and other eye conditions.
Every 1-2 years, or as recommended by a veterinarian.
Comprehensive Health Screening
General health screening to assess overall health and detect any underlying issues.
Annually, especially as the dog ages.
Training
Training Profile
Training Tips
Training a Silken Windhound should be approached with patience and positivity. Utilizing reward-based methods, such as treats and praise, will encourage the dog to engage and learn.
Short training sessions of 5-10 minutes are ideal to maintain their focus and enthusiasm. Incorporating play into training can also enhance their learning experience.
Socialization with other dogs and people is crucial, as it helps them develop confidence and reduces anxiety in new situations. Regular practice of commands and tricks will strengthen the bond between owner and dog, making training a rewarding experience for both.
Work Drive
Silken Windhounds possess a natural work drive, stemming from their sighthound heritage. They thrive when given tasks that challenge their intelligence and physical abilities.
Activities such as lure coursing, agility, and obedience training provide the mental stimulation they need to stay happy and engaged. Without sufficient mental and physical challenges, they may become bored and exhibit undesirable behaviors.
Owners should aim to incorporate a variety of activities into their routine to keep their Silken Windhound fulfilled.
Training Considerations
Silken Windhounds may exhibit challenges such as a strong prey drive, which can lead to chasing small animals if not properly socialized. Additionally, their sensitive nature means they may react poorly to harsh training methods, leading to fearfulness rather than obedience.
To overcome these challenges, owners should focus on positive reinforcement techniques, ensuring training sessions are short, engaging, and filled with rewards. Consistent socialization from a young age can help mitigate prey drive and promote good behavior around other pets and people.
History & Heritage
Origins & Heritage
The Silken Windhound originated from the vision of Francie Stull, who sought to create a small to medium-sized sighthound that retained the elegance and athleticism of its larger relatives. By selectively breeding top-performing Borzois and Whippets, Stull aimed to develop a breed that could excel in both performance sports and as a family companion.
The breed's first litter was born in 1987, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the world of sighthounds. Over the years, the Silken Windhound has gained recognition and respect within the canine community, showcasing its abilities in various dog sports and events.
Development History
The Silken Windhound was developed by Francie Stull in the 1980s, combining the best traits of Borzoi and Whippet bloodlines. The first litter was whelped in 1987, and the breed club was established in 1999.
Recognized by the United Kennel Club in 2011, the breed has since gained popularity across the United States, Canada, and Europe. The careful selection of breeding stock has focused on maintaining the breed's unique characteristics while promoting health and temperament.
Historical Purpose
Originally bred for coursing and hunting, the Silken Windhound has evolved into a versatile companion dog. While they excel in lure coursing and racing, they have also proven their intelligence and adaptability in activities such as agility, obedience, and therapy work. Their friendly demeanor makes them excellent family pets, while their athleticism allows them to participate in various canine sports.
Cultural Impact
The Silken Windhound, a relatively new breed, has gained recognition for its unique combination of grace and athleticism. Developed in the United States, it reflects the growing interest in preserving and promoting rare breeds.
Its friendly and affectionate nature makes it a popular choice among families, while its performance capabilities in various dog sports highlight its versatility. The breed's acceptance into various kennel clubs and participation in performance events showcases its cultural significance in the canine community.
Conservation Status
Though stable, this breed's limited numbers require continued attention from breed enthusiasts to ensure its preservation and healthy development.