medium-long to long, silky single coat with feathering
A graceful, medium-sized sighthound with a soft, silky coat that may be straight, wavy or curly. Longer feathering grows on the backs of the front legs, the chest, the hindquarters, around the neck and on the tail.23
Coloursany colour or patternredcreamfawnbrindleparti-colourblacksilverwhite23
Personality what they are like
A sweet-natured, even-tempered hound that is gentle and devoted at home and usually friendly with people and other dogs. It is keen and quick when chasing a lure outdoors, then settles quietly in the house. Eager to please, it takes well to training.2354
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Needs daily exercise with a chance to run freely in a safe, fenced space, plus walks and play. Silkens enjoy lure coursing, racing, agility, obedience and scent work.54
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Low grooming for a long-haired breed: a weekly brush keeps the coat tidy, with a bath when needed. Owners often use a martingale-style collar because the slim head can slip out of an ordinary buckle collar.541
Home where they are happiest
Adapts to many homes as long as it gets regular running time. Inside it is usually quiet and well behaved.54
Company who they like around
Enjoys being part of family activities and does not like long stretches alone. Tends to get along well with other dogs and can live with other pets when raised with them.541
The story where it all began
Francie Stull set out to create a smaller, long-coated sighthound with an easy temperament, combining champion Borzoi lines with Whippet-based lurchers. The first litter considered to be the breed was born in 1985, the name was settled in 1998, and the ISWS was formed in 1999. The UKC recognised the breed in 2011.214
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Silkens have won top all-breed racing honours, including LGRA's Klar Award for the leading racer of the year.5
2
They are among the longest-lived dog breeds, often reaching their mid to late teens.1
3
The breed is so friendly with strangers that it is not suited to guard work.1
4
Unlike many long-coated breeds, Silkens do not blow their coats in big seasonal sheds.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'Silken Windhound' was officially adopted in 1998, combining 'Silken' for its silky coat and 'Windhound' to reflect its heritage as a sighthound bred for coursing.6
I woke up to the sun warming my spot on the couch. After a stretch, I followed my human to the backyard. Oh, the joy of a good run! I chased a leaf, then a butterfly, my legs flying. Later, we practiced a few tricks for treats, I love making them proud. Now I'm curled up, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. Life is a gentle breeze and a happy heart.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
United Kennel Club (UKC)
Recognised 18 March 2011, Sighthound & Pariah Dog Group.2
These three-ingredient treats are quick to make and packed with antioxidants from blueberries and fibre from oats. They are low in fat and perfect as a training reward.
You need
100g oats
1 banana (mashed)
40g fresh blueberries (chopped)
Splash of water (as needed)
How
Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, oats, and chopped blueberries together.
Add splashes of water gradually until the mixture comes together into a large ball.
Roll out the mixture on a lightly floured surface to about 1-2cm thick.
Use a knife or cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
Place the shapes on a lined baking tray.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until slightly browned.
Leave to cool completely before serving.
How much: Offer one or two bites per day for a medium-sized dog. Reduce your dog's usual food portion to account for these treats.
These refreshing frozen treats are perfect for warm days and use simple, dog-safe ingredients. Yoghurt provides calcium and probiotics, while strawberries and apple add vitamins and natural sweetness.
You need
30g plain, unsweetened yoghurt (no additives or sweeteners)
2-3 medium strawberries (washed and chopped)
Half a small apple (cored and chopped into small pieces)
How
Wash the strawberries and apple thoroughly. Core the apple and chop both fruits into small, bite-sized pieces.
Mix the chopped fruit together in a small bowl.
Place a few pieces of fruit (no more than five) into each compartment of a small silicone mould or ice cube tray. Each mould should be roughly 30mm x 25mm x 17mm or smaller.
Pour the plain yoghurt over the fruit, filling each mould to the top.
Place the mould or tray in the freezer for at least 3-4 hours, or until fully frozen.
Pop the treats out of the moulds and serve immediately.
How much: Small dogs can have one treat per day; medium/large dogs can have two per day. These count towards the 10% treat allowance, so reduce your dog's main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Silken Windhound, and at what times?
Adult Silkens do well with at least two meals a day, while puppies need three to four smaller meals. Furry Diary's starting plan is to feed at consistent times each day, and your vet can help you set the right schedule.7Pet Wiki plan
What should a Silken Windhound eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, these are especially harmful to dogs.8
How often should I bathe a Silken Windhound?
Bathe your Silken only when needed, about every two months or so. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, but you can bathe more often if they get dirty.9Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Silken Windhound need brushing?
A weekly brush keeps their silky coat tidy and free of tangles. Furry Diary's starting plan is to brush every 7 days, which is usually enough for this low-grooming breed.54Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Silken Windhound's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Silken Windhound need?
They need daily exercise with a chance to run freely in a safe, fenced area, plus walks and play. Furry Diary's starting plan includes daily walks and play, and they enjoy lure coursing, agility, and other activities.54Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Silken Windhound's teeth and ears?
Brush their teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks, especially since floppy ears can trap moisture.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Silken Windhound live?
Silken Windhounds have a long lifespan of 14 to 20 years, so you can enjoy many happy years together.41
Is a Silken Windhound good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are gentle and even-tempered, usually friendly with people and other dogs. They can live with other pets when raised with them, but always supervise interactions with young children.254
Can a Silken Windhound be left alone?
They enjoy being part of family activities and do not like long stretches alone. If left alone for extended periods, they may become anxious, so it's best to have company or a pet sitter.54
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Borzoi
Whippet
Saluki