What to Think About Before Getting a Silken Windhound: 24 Key Questions
Silken Windhounds might not be a household name yet, but they’re a hidden gem for the right family. If you’ve ever admired the elegance of sighthounds like Greyhounds or Whippets but wished for one that was a bit more social and family-oriented, this breed might be exactly what you’re looking for.
We’ve had a chance to meet a few Silken Windhounds over the years — and let me tell you, they’re just as graceful as you’d expect, but with a gentler, more outgoing personality than many of their sighthound cousins. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering bringing one home.
What Makes Silken Windhounds Special?
Silken Windhounds are a relatively new breed, developed in the 1980s by crossing Borzois and Whippets. The goal? A smaller, stunning, social sighthound — and it worked.
These dogs are affectionate, gentle, and surprisingly friendly with strangers. Unlike many sighthounds that tend to be aloof, Silken Windhounds often enjoy meeting new people. They’re also good with kids and can live happily in a multi-dog household if properly introduced and socialized.
What to Expect in Day-to-Day Life
Temperament: Calm and loving, yet playful and intelligent. They’re not guard dogs — they’re more likely to greet a guest than warn you about one.
Exercise Needs: While not as intense as some high-energy breeds, they do need daily activity. Two 30-minute walks and occasional off-leash sprints in a fenced area are usually enough. A dog park or a safe backyard is ideal for that zoomie release.
Prey Drive: Like all sighthounds, they’ve got a strong instinct to chase. Off-leash walks in open areas aren’t safe unless you’re in a completely enclosed space. Even with excellent recall, one squirrel sighting could send them sprinting.
Living Space: They adapt well to apartment life, as long as you can meet their exercise needs. A yard is a bonus, but not a must. They’re indoor dogs at heart and love being close to their humans.
Alone Time: This breed is very people-oriented. Leaving them alone for long hours can lead to separation anxiety. If you work outside the home, consider a dog sitter, daycare, or even a second dog for company.
Grooming & Health
Coat: True to their name, their coat is soft, silky, and low-shedding. A few brushings a week and a monthly bath keep them looking their best.
Grooming Needs: Fairly minimal. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning, dental care — the usual routine.
Hypoallergenic? Not quite. While they shed less than many breeds, they still produce dander and can trigger allergies.
Health & Lifespan: When responsibly bred, Silken Windhounds are generally healthy and have an impressive lifespan — often living 14 to 16 years, and sometimes even longer. Watch for rare issues like drug sensitivity (MDR1 gene), cataracts, or lotus syndrome. Always choose a breeder who does health testing.
Size, Speed & Other Fun Facts
- Height: 18–24 inches at the shoulder
- Weight: 20–45 pounds (females on the lighter end)
- Speed: Up to 40 mph — they’re built to run!
- Colors: Just about any color or pattern you can imagine — solids, brindles, tri-colors, spots.
What About Barking?
They’re not big barkers, but they may “talk” to you with the occasional howl or whine — especially if they’re bored or want your attention. Early training can help manage that.
The Price Tag
Because they’re still a rare breed, Silken Windhound puppies can cost around $2,000–$2,500. Make sure you’re working with a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, not just looks.
So, Is a Silken Windhound Right for You?
If you’re looking for a gentle, elegant, and affectionate dog who loves to run but also loves to snuggle, the Silken Windhound could be a perfect match. They’re a bit of a best-kept secret in the dog world — adaptable, graceful, and wonderfully social.
Just be ready to keep them active, give them companionship, and protect them from their own chase instincts. In return, you’ll have one of the most charming and beautiful dogs you’ve ever met.