Silken Windhound

The Silken Windhound is a modern American sighthound developed in the late twentieth century to combine coursing ability with a moderate size and a soft, feathered coat. Created from Borzoi and Whippet-influenced lines, it has the arched outline, long legs, deep chest, and light movement expected of a windhound, but in a smaller package than most Borzoi. The breed appears in many colors and patterns and is used for companionship, lure coursing, racing games, and conformation showing in registries that recognize it.

At home, Silkens are usually people-oriented and easy to live with when they have chances to sprint in a safely fenced area. Their prey drive can make off-leash freedom risky, and their lean build calls for soft bedding and cold-weather consideration. The coat is easier than it looks but still needs brushing, especially behind the ears, tail, and feathering. Breed health programs commonly track pedigrees closely and use tools such as eye exams, cardiac checks, and DNA testing for issues including MDR1 drug sensitivity.