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Silken Windhound

Silken Windhound

Origin

šŸ‡ŗšŸ‡ø

United States

Size

Medium Breed

Ideal Space

House with backyard

Ideal Weather

15Āŗ-26ĀŗC

Avg Monthly Expenses

ā‚¹4,650

Basic Lifestyle

ā‚¹6,600

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Athletic

Intelligent

Loyal

Playful

Friendly

Silken Windhound

Quick Information

The Silken Windhound is a medium-sized sighthound that exudes elegance and athleticism. Developed in the 1980s in the United States, this breed was created to be a versatile companion and a top competitor in lure coursing. With its sleek body and long, flowing coat, the Silken Windhound stands out not only for its beauty but also for its remarkable agility and speed. They are known for their friendly nature and are often referred to as "gentle companions," making them a popular choice among dog lovers.


Temperament-wise, Silken Windhounds are affectionate, intelligent, and eager to please. They are known for forming strong bonds with their families, including children, and are typically gentle and patient around them. This breed is playful and enjoys engaging in various activities, including fetch and lure coursing. Their natural instinct to chase and their athletic build make them well-suited for running and agility sports, ensuring they stay mentally and physically stimulated.


While Silken Windhounds are generally friendly and social with other dogs, early socialization is crucial to help them develop good manners. They thrive in environments where they can express their energy and loyalty but can adapt to apartment living if provided with regular exercise. With their moderate maintenance needs, which include regular grooming and physical activity, Silken Windhounds can be a wonderful addition to an active household.

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Characteristics

Barking

Quiet

Loud

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Compatibility with other dogs

Aggressive

Friendly

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

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Nutrition

Monthly Food Expenses

ā‚¹ 2,250 - ā‚¹ 3,000

Calories per day

Puppies:Ā 1400 kcal

Adults:Ā 1600 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Protein

Fats

Carbohydrates

Fibre

Vitamins

Minerals

List of foods

Chicken

Dry Dog Food

Fresh Meat

Fresh Fish

Fruits

Mutton

Home made meals

Vegetables

The Silken Windhound requires a balanced diet rich in high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of carbohydrates to support its energetic and active lifestyle. Puppies, in particular, need a higher caloric intake to fuel their growth and development. A well-rounded diet consisting of lean meats such as chicken and fresh fish, combined with fruits and vegetables, ensures that they receive essential nutrients for optimal health. Adult Silken Windhounds benefit from a diet that maintains their muscle mass and energy levels, focusing on maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being.


In addition to proteins and fats, incorporating carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and rice can provide the necessary energy for daily activities. Itā€™s essential to offer a variety of textures and flavors to keep mealtime interesting for the Silken Windhound. Homemade meals are an excellent way to ensure they get the freshest ingredients, but commercial dry dog food can also be beneficial if it contains high-quality ingredients and is appropriate for their life stage. Regular meals and portion control are important to prevent obesity, a concern for this breed due to their sighthound lineage.


ļ»æNote: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.

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Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Selecting Good Quality Food

When selecting food for a Silken Windhound, opting for high-quality, protein-rich options is crucial. Fresh meats, such as chicken and fish, should be the cornerstone of their diet, providing the essential amino acids needed for muscle development and maintenance. Additionally, incorporating wholesome carbohydrates, such as brown rice or sweet potatoes, offers sustained energy, which is important for their active lifestyle. A balanced meal plan that includes fruits and vegetables adds essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting overall health and a strong immune system.


It's important to choose dog foods that list whole meat as the first ingredient and avoid those with excessive fillers or artificial additives. A good quality dry dog food should also contain healthy fats for skin and coat health, as well as probiotics for digestive support. Regularly rotating proteins and including a variety of foods in their diet will help meet their nutritional needs while keeping them excited about their meals. Providing fresh water at all times is essential to keep them hydrated, especially after exercise.

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Never feed these foods to Silken Windhound

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Alcohol

Garlic

Almonds

Grapes

Avocados

Lemon

Cherries

Milk Products

Cinnamon

Mushrooms

Coffee / Tea

Onions

Dairy

Salt

Fruit seeds

Sugar

While feeding a Silken Windhound, certain ingredients should be avoided to maintain optimal health. Foods that are high in fillers, such as corn, wheat, and soy, can lead to digestive issues and do not provide the necessary nutrients that this active breed requires. Additionally, any dog food containing artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors should be excluded, as these additives can have adverse effects on a dogā€™s health and well-being.


Certain human foods can also be harmful to Silken Windhounds and should be strictly avoided. Foods such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic can be toxic to dogs and should never be included in their diet. Furthermore, high-fat foods or those rich in sugars can lead to obesity and other health complications, which is particularly concerning for this breed given their active nature and predisposition to certain health issues. Always consult with a veterinarian when making dietary changes to ensure the best nutrition for your Silken Windhound.

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Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

ā‚¹ 1,200 - ā‚¹ 1,800

Common Health Issues

Hip Dysplasia

Bloat

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

Skin Allergies

Ear Infections

Heartworm

Thyroid Disease

Patellar Luxation

Well being

Exercise

Agility Training

Bonding

Games

Hiking

Energy Level

High

Exercise routine

60 - 90 minutes

Recognising Stress

Changes in appetite

Excessive Barking

Pacing

Excessive Panting

Reluctance to move

Medical Care

The Silken Windhound is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain health issues. One of the most common concerns is hip dysplasia, a genetic condition affecting the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and discomfort. Regular veterinary check-ups can help in early detection and management. Additionally, bloat, or gastric torsion, is a serious condition that can occur in deep-chested breeds, so owners should be vigilant about signs such as a distended abdomen and unproductive retching. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help mitigate the risk of these conditions.


Preventative care is crucial for maintaining the health of a Silken Windhound. This includes keeping up to date with vaccinations against diseases such as canine distemper, canine influenza, and heartworm, which can have severe health implications. Regular parasite prevention and routine screenings for conditions like Lyme disease and leptospirosis are also important, especially for dogs that enjoy outdoor activities. Socialization and consistent exercise routines not only promote physical health but also contribute to the mental well-being of this active and intelligent breed.

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Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus

10-12 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus

14-16 Weeks

Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus, Rabies

Annually

Rabies, Distemper, Parvovirus, Adenovirus

Recommendations to care for senior Silken Windhound dogs

As Silken Windhounds age, their medical care requirements change, and it is vital to adjust their routine to meet their needs. Regular veterinary check-ups become even more crucial for senior dogs, as they are more susceptible to health issues such as arthritis, heart disease, and other age-related conditions. Itā€™s recommended to schedule bi-annual veterinary visits to monitor their health, perform necessary blood tests, and update vaccinations. A veterinarian may also suggest specific dietary adjustments to support joint health, manage weight, and maintain energy levels.


In addition to medical care, mental and physical stimulation remains important for senior Silken Windhounds. Engaging them in low-impact exercises, such as gentle walks and interactive games, helps maintain their mobility and cognitive function. Regular socialization with other dogs and people is also beneficial, as it keeps them mentally sharp and emotionally balanced. Providing a comfortable living environment, including a cozy bed and easy access to food and water, can enhance their quality of life in their golden years.


ļ»æImportant Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.

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Grooming

Avg Monthly Expenses

ā‚¹ 1,200 - ā‚¹ 1,800

Shedding Level

Low Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Bathing

Brushing

Ear Cleaning

Nail Trimming

Eye Care

Teeth Care

Benefits of Grooming

Cleanliness

Low Shedding

Prevents infections

Quality of life

Odourless

The Silken Windhound has a low-shedding coat that requires minimal grooming compared to many other breeds. Regular brushing, ideally once a week, helps maintain their coat's health by removing loose hairs and preventing matting while also keeping their skin clean and free of debris. Bathing should be done as needed, typically every few months or when they get particularly dirty, using a gentle dog shampoo to preserve the natural oils in their skin. Maintaining hygiene extends beyond the coat; regular ear cleaning and nail trimming are crucial to prevent infections and discomfort. Proper grooming not only enhances the dog's appearance but also contributes significantly to their overall health and quality of life by reducing the risk of skin issues and keeping them comfortable.

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Adopt or Shop: The choice is yours!

Cost of buying

ā‚¹ 80,000 - ā‚¹ 1,50,000

Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Silken Windhound for your house.


Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.


To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.


Cost of a Silken Windhound depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.


Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Silken Windhound up for adoption.


Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.

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Prerequisites to pet a Silken Windhound

Access to Groomer

Access to Veterinary

Appropriate Climate

Lifestyle Compatibility

Financial Capability

Now that you know what it takes to raise a undefined, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?

Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Silken Windhound breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.


Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.


Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.


Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.


Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.

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Compare with similar breeds

Whippet_breed

Whippet

Basset Hound_breed

Basset Hound

Bulldog_breed

Bulldog

American Cocker Spaniel_breed

American Cocker Spaniel

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Silken Windhounds good family pets?

Silken Windhounds are generally good family pets. They are gentle, friendly, and enjoy being around people, including children. However, they do have high energy levels and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Do Silken Windhounds shed a lot?

No, Silken Windhounds are considered low shedders. Their fine, silky coat requires minimal grooming, but regular brushing helps keep it healthy and free of tangles.

Are Silken Windhounds easy to train?

Silken Windhounds are intelligent and eager to please, which generally makes them trainable. Positive reinforcement methods and consistency are effective in training them.

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