Silken Windsprite

The Silken Windsprite is a dog originally from the United States. Physically, it is known for its soft medium-length coat, with color variations including red, sand, silver-gray, and black. It is known for its friendliness toward humans and sociability with other dogs.

General details

The breed has a medium size and a balanced structure. Males stand between 47 and 55 cm, and females between 44 and 53 cm. The weight of these dogs ranges from 7 to 16 kilograms. Their life expectancy is approximately 14 years. The Silken Windsprite is not recognized by the Fédération Cynalogique Internationale as a unique breed (FCI).

Breed history in brief

The Silken Windsprite is a dog breed originating from the United States, and its history dates back to the mid-20th century. Although initially not recognized as an independent breed, the work of breeders like Walter A. Wheeler Jr. led to the foundation of the Longhaired Whippet Association in 1986. Later, in 2001, the International Longhaired Whippet Club (ILWC) was established, and in 2002, the Silken Windsprite Club (SWC) was founded in Germany. Finally, the German Kennel Club (VDH) recognized the Silken Windsprite as a purebred dog breed in the country. Today, the Silken Windsprite is valued for its elegant appearance, balanced temperament, and adaptability as a family companion and show dog. Its popularity continues to grow in different parts of the world.

Breed characteristics

The Silken Windsprite is an athletic dog resembling a Greyhound, with a deep chest, long neck, and narrow waist. Its eyes are medium-sized, expressive, and typically dark. The ears are of medium size, placed high on the head, and are carried semi-erect or folded forward. The tail is long and slender, carried with a slight upward curve. The breed’s coat is silky and medium-length throughout the body, except on the neck, thighs, tail, and ears, where it is longer. The most common colors are red or fawn. The Silken Windsprite is known for its gentle and peaceful nature. It is an obedient dog that maintains good relations with other dogs. It may be reserved with strangers and, despite being active, is usually calm at home. In open spaces, it loves to play and run alongside its humans and other dogs, competing in speed.

Common health problems

With proper care and attention, the Silken Windsprite can enjoy a long and healthy life, although it is predisposed to certain health issues. Among the most common diseases or disorders are hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, cataracts, corneal dystrophy, von Willebrand disease, epilepsy, Collie eye anomaly, and hypersensitivity to drugs (MDR1 gene).