Silken Windsprite

Historical Development and Breed Origins

The Silken Windsprite, often referred to as the Silken Windhound, is a breed of sighthound that emerged in the late 20th century. Developed primarily in the United States by Walter A. Wheeler Jr., the breed was created to capture the elegance and athletic prowess of the classic longhaired sighthound. The foundation of the breed relied heavily on the Whippet and the Borzoi, aiming to produce a smaller, affectionate, and highly agile companion that retained the classic coursing instincts of its ancestors. Unlike breeds governed by strict regulations, the Silken Windsprite has been developed through careful selection to ensure a consistent temperament and physical type.

The breed's development was meticulously documented, focusing on specific bloodlines that emphasized both aesthetic beauty and functional health. While they are not currently recognized by the FCI, they have gained significant traction within various national organizations that oversee their development and health testing. Their temperament is characterized by a gentle, sensitive nature, making them excellent family companions who are nonetheless capable of explosive speed when given the opportunity to run in open fields.

Anatomical Standards and Evaluation

The Silken Windsprite is a medium-sized sighthound, characterized by a graceful, balanced silhouette. Their structure is designed for endurance and speed, featuring a deep chest and a well-arched loin.

• Head: Long and refined, with a flat skull and a gentle stop. The expression should be alert and intelligent.
• Coat: The hallmark of the breed is its silky, flowing coat, which can be straight or slightly wavy. It requires regular grooming to maintain its luster.
• Movement: The gait should be effortless, smooth, and ground-covering, a trait often scrutinized by evaluators during informal assessments.
• Training: Due to their sensitive nature, they respond best to positive reinforcement techniques often taught at specialized training centers.
• Versatility: While they excel in various competitions, they are primarily cherished for their companionship and adaptability to various living environments.

• The breed was originally known as the Silken Windhound before the name Silken Windsprite became more common in certain circles.
• They are exceptionally quiet indoors, rarely barking without cause.
• Despite their delicate appearance, they are robust athletes capable of high-speed agility.
• The breed has a very low prey drive compared to some other sighthounds, though they still enjoy chasing lures.
• Their coat comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including solid, particolor, and brindle.