Silken Windhound

Historical Development and Breed Origins

The Silken Windhound is a relatively modern breed of sighthound, developed in the United States during the late 20th century. The breed was established by Francie Stull of Kristull Kennels, who sought to create a smaller, long-haired sighthound that possessed the grace and speed of the Borzoi and the Whippet. The foundation stock primarily involved Whippets and Borzois, with careful selection to ensure the retention of the classic sighthound silhouette while introducing a luxurious, silky coat. Unlike many breeds that have centuries of history, the Silken Windhound was developed with a specific focus on temperament, health, and aesthetic consistency, often documented through meticulous bloodlines that track the genetic contributions of the founding dogs.

As the breed gained popularity, enthusiasts sought to formalize the breed's status. While they are not currently recognized by the FCI, they are monitored by various national organizations that maintain their own registries and breed standards. The breed is known for its affectionate, gentle, and intelligent nature, making them excellent companions. Their development has been guided by a commitment to preserving the functional sighthound structure, ensuring that they remain capable of athletic pursuits while serving as devoted family pets. Those interested in the breed often consult with training centers to understand the unique behavioral needs of sighthounds, which require specific socialization and exercise protocols to thrive in a domestic environment.

Anatomy and Breed Standards

The Silken Windhound is characterized by its elegant, balanced, and athletic frame. They are smaller than the Borzoi but possess a more substantial coat than the Whippet. The following points outline the essential physical requirements for the breed:

• Head: Long and refined, with a flat skull and a gentle stop. The muzzle is powerful yet elegant, tapering toward the nose.
• Eyes: Large, dark, and expressive, conveying a soft and intelligent gaze.
• Coat: The hallmark of the breed is its silky, flowing coat, which can be straight or slightly wavy. It is longer on the neck, tail, and the back of the legs.
• Movement: The gait should be smooth, effortless, and ground-covering, reflecting the breed's heritage as a coursing hound.
• Evaluation: When participating in competitions, the dog is evaluated on its structural soundness and adherence to the breed's specific exhibition standards.
• Expertise: Because the breed is not yet under the jurisdiction of the FCI, specialized show judges are often invited from independent registries to evaluate the dogs based on the established breed blueprint.

• The Silken Windhound was officially recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC) in 2011.
• Despite their long hair, they are relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional brushing to prevent matting.
• They are highly versatile and excel in various canine sports, including agility, rally, and lure coursing.
• The breed is known for being less reserved with strangers than many other sighthound breeds.
• Their name, 'Silken,' refers to the texture of their coat, while 'Windhound' highlights their speed and sighthound ancestry.