There’s nothing quite like a Silken Windhound in full flow. This supremely athletic dog breed is a medium-sized version of the majestic Borzoi. With their long, flowing coat, graceful movements, and gentle mannerisms, they genuinely captivate the eye.
However, don’t be deceived by their reserved demeanor, as at their core; they are true sighthounds. Like other members of this group, even when quietly sitting by your side, don’t assume for a moment that they aren’t also attentively scanning the horizon, ready to pursue anything that catches their sight.
The Silken Windhound is a “legitimate” sighthound, relying on their vision rather than scent for hunting. They possess an instinct as hunters, driven by their strong prey drive.
And…
When this hunting dog goes after a target, you may rest assured that he won’t stop until he gets what he wants. He is ruthless and relentless, and cunning too. You should see how he sets up a lure and goes for the kill.
Comparisons Dog Breed
The Silken Windhound is often compared to other dog breeds, such as the Whippet, Border Collie, and Shetland Sheepdog. It is a smaller or medium-sized version of the Borzoi. Therefore, it is possible to find Silken Windhound puppies from reputable Borzoi breeders.
Also, it is essential to emphasize the importance of choosing a trustworthy and experienced Borzoi breeder with ethical breeding practices when considering bringing Silken Windhound puppies into your home. Unfortunately, some unethical breeders operate puppy mills and should not be relied upon.
Now is he the one for you?
It’s hard to tell whether the Silken Windhound is for you without knowing your specific requirements. What are you looking for? Hunting dog? Guard dog? Family dog? Companion dog?
The Silken can be all of that. The Silken Windhound is known for being less of a watchdog. They tend to be silent and can sometimes retreat into their shell. While they are tolerant of children and naturally protective of them, they may not necessarily be the ideal playmate for kids.
This graceful hound…
Has a specific role in life. If you understand that, you should bring a Silken Windhound puppy home.
You can read the rest of this article to learn more about this exciting dog breed.
Silken Windhound Dog Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: United States
Original Purpose: Small game hunting
Height: 18.5 to 23.5 inches
Weight: 20 to 45 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Currently not “officially” recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC)
Life Span: 14 or more years
History of the Silken Windhound Dog Breed
The Silken Windhound is a medium-sized sighthound, similar to the Whippet in size. This breed was initially developed by an American Borzoi breeder named Francie Stull. Ms. Stull aimed to create a smaller version of the Borzoi with the same elegance, speed, athleticism, graceful movements, and beautiful coat. Additionally, she sought to breed a naturally affectionate, loyal, and confident dog.
Furthermore, Ms. Stull sought to establish a breed with a smooth, silky, and easy-to-care-for coat, making the Silken Windhound an ideal choice as a family dog, as well as a hunting or guard dog. To achieve these goals, Ms. Stull crossed Borzoi with Whippets, and the first litter resulting from this breeding program became the foundation of the Silken Windhound breed in 1985.
And while…
The Windhound is an all-American dog breed; it should be noted that it is also found in many other countries around the world, including Sweden, Switzerland, Austria, Canada, Italy, Mexico, Finland, Germany, Norway, The Netherlands, New Zealand, UAE, UK, South Africa, and Japan.
Current status:
Although this breed is highly regarded, it is currently considered a designer dog, so it has yet to receive recognition from the American Kennel Club (AKC). This situation is unfortunate.
However, there is good news. The breed has recently been “accepted” into the American Kennel Club’s “Foundation Stock Service,” which marks the first step toward potential future official recognition as its unique breed. This development brings hope that, over time, the Silken Windhound may attain the recognition it deserves.
If you are a proud owner of a Silken puppy, it is advisable to register them with the International Silken Windhound Society (ISWS), which was established in 1999. The ISWS maintains a registry for Silken Windhounds from all corners of the globe, ensuring proper documentation and recognition for these magnificent dogs.
Physical Characteristics
The Silken is a medium-sized version of the Borzoi.
He rises to 18 to 23.5 inches and has a distinctive long, wedge-shaped head, long, slender neck, strong legs, long tail, and a muscular physique – the same as a Borzoi.
He has large almond-shaped eyes that radiate intelligence. His ears are small in size, generally folded, but perk up whenever he is on the hunt.
Coat:
The Silken Windhound is called so because of his soft, smooth, silky coat, which can be curly, straight, or wavy. His skin can be brown, gray, black, tan, spotted, or brindle with streaks of different markings.
Grooming:
The Silken does not shed much and has an easy care coat. Could you give him a brush every week? That should work. This is a low-maintenance pet.
Personality and Temperament
The Silken is quite gentle by temperament. He is very well-mannered for a hound and good with children. Surprisingly, he can also get along with cats, provided he has grown up with them. He doesn’t mind the company of other dogs either and can fit well in a multi-pet household.
He is easy to train
…And learns new tricks pretty fast. He excels in dog sports, such as Open Field Coursing. He loves to run and chase things, but he is just as happy sitting beside you on a couch, watching your favorite TV shows.
Also…
He is comfortable around strangers and is a surprisingly friendly dog, considering he is a hound. He is calm and composed most of the time and never aggressive. You can trust this graceful creature around children.
Potential Health Problems
The Silken Windhound is one of the healthiest breeds out there. He doesn’t get sick and does not suffer from many hereditary disorders. He has an excellent life expectancy of 14 years or more.
However
Even a dog breed as healthy as the Silkens is vulnerable to specific health problems such as Lotus Syndrome.
Lotus Syndrome
It appears in dogs at a very young age, when they are only puppies and can be fatal. The Silken is susceptible to other health problems such as…
It is true that.
Other health issues are not fatal or life-threatening besides Lotus Syndrome. But it is essential to take your dog to a vet regularly so that any medical complications can be caught as early as possible.
Also
The cost of medical treatment can be high, especially if they become recurring problems. This can be a concern for most people.
We understand that which is why, here at IndulgeYourPet, we suggest signing up for Pet Insurance for Silken Windhounds. This can help cover some or most of the costs related to its treatment.
What you’ll get from us…
We offer top-rated pet insurance policies for dog owners such as yourself. But how does pet insurance work? Is it for everyone?
No…
Pet insurance may not be for everyone. You must research what a pet insurance policy covers and doesn’t cover. Read the fine print carefully before arriving at a decision.
And
Please read this article on Pet Insurance Policies from our website; we have covered everything you want to know about it.
All the paws are at 3!!!