Breed overview

Silken Windhound

Graceful and silky-coated, the Silken Windhound is a modern American sighthound created by blending Borzoi and Whippet lines into an elegant, mid-sized package. It has the speed and love of a good sprint you would expect from a sighthound, yet indoors it is affectionate, gentle, and easy to live with. A house with a backyard and a securely fenced space to run suit it best, alongside 60 to 90 minutes of activity. The flowing coat sheds little and it does well in mild 15 to 26 degree weather. Pups fetch around ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000 and typically live 12 to 15 years.

Origin: United States 🇺🇸
Size: Medium Breed
Lifespan: 12 - 15 years
Buying price: ₹80,000 - ₹1,50,000
Ideal space: House with backyard
Weather: 15 - 26°C
Coat type: Short to Medium Coat

Core Behavioral Traits of the Silken Windhound

Athletic

Intelligent

Loyal

Playful

Friendly

Nutrition

Meal guidance, safe foods, and macro balance.

Nutritional Guide for Silken Windhound

The Silken Windhound is a graceful sighthound built to run, and its diet reflects that with a higher fat share for energy alongside quality protein for lean muscle. Adults suit around 1,600 calories a day when active. Omega-3 helps both the coat and the skin, which can be allergy-prone in this breed. Because bloat is a concern, feed two meals and avoid hard exercise right after. Monthly food typically costs about ₹2,250 to ₹3,000.

At a glance

Monthly food cost: ₹2,250 - ₹3,000
Calories per day: 1400 / 1600 kcal

Recommended foods

Cooked deboned chicken providing lean, complete animal protein essential for the Silken Windhound's muscle repair, coat health, and high daily energy levels.
Premium quality dry kibble formulated for medium breed breeds, delivering balanced macro-nutrients and supporting dental health through mechanical chewing.
Lean fresh meats including turkey, beef, or lamb delivering complete amino acid profiles to sustain the Silken Windhound's active musculature and metabolic needs.
Fresh fish rich in marine Omega-3 fatty acids that reinforce the Silken Windhound's brain function, coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular health.
Dog-safe fruits like blueberries, apples, and watermelon providing natural antioxidants and vitamins to strengthen the Silken Windhound's immune system without added sugars.

Essential nutrients

High-quality animal protein from chicken, fish, and meat to fuel the Silken Windhound's high-energy lifestyle and support lean muscle repair
Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids to maintain the Silken Windhound's coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular health
Complex low-glycemic carbohydrates providing sustained energy release for the Silken Windhound's daily activity demands
Prebiotic dietary fiber to regulate the Silken Windhound's bowel transit and support efficient nutrient absorption throughout the digestive system
Fat and water-soluble vitamins to support the Silken Windhound's immune system, vision, and efficient cellular repair processes
Calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals to sustain the Silken Windhound's bone density, dental health, and enzymatic function

Macro breakdown

Protein
30%
High-quality animal proteins from chicken, fish, and meat support lean muscle mass and sustain the Silken Windhound's high daily energy demands.
Fats
20%
Essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids from fish oil maintain the Silken Windhound's coat condition, joint lubrication, and cardiovascular function.
Carbohydrates
35%
Complex carbohydrates from grains and vegetables provide sustained energy release and digestive fiber for the Silken Windhound's active lifestyle.
Fibre
5%
Prebiotic dietary fiber promotes smooth intestinal transit and efficient nutrient absorption in the Silken Windhound.
Vitamins
5%
Fat and water-soluble vitamins support the Silken Windhound's immune system, vision, and cellular repair processes throughout all life stages.
Minerals
5%
Calcium, phosphorus, and trace minerals maintain the Silken Windhound's bone density, dental health, and enzymatic function.

Foods to avoid

Alcohol: Alcohol is acutely toxic to the Silken Windhound's central nervous system and liver, causing vomiting, disorientation, and potentially fatal respiratory depression even in trace amounts.
Garlic: Garlic contains concentrated thiosulfate compounds that are five times more toxic than onions to the Silken Windhound, causing progressive red blood cell destruction.
Almonds: Almonds is harmful to the Silken Windhound's metabolic system and must be strictly excluded from its diet to prevent toxicity reactions.
Grapes: Grapes and raisins contain unknown nephrotoxic compounds that cause sudden acute kidney failure in the Silken Windhound, often with no early warning symptoms.
Avocados: Avocado flesh and pit contain persin, a fungicidal toxin that causes vomiting, diarrhea, and myocardial damage in the Silken Windhound.
Lemon: Lemon is harmful to the Silken Windhound's metabolic system and must be strictly excluded from its diet to prevent toxicity reactions.

Prohibited ingredients

BHA and BHT synthetic preservatives place unnecessary oxidative stress on the Silken Windhound's liver and kidney tissues, accumulating over time and disrupting hormonal balance.
Artificial colorants and synthetic dye agents like Red 40 and Yellow 5 offer zero nutritional value while triggering dermal sensitivities and intestinal allergic reactions in the Silken Windhound.
Xylitol and artificial sweetener compounds cause immediate dangerous insulin surges in the Silken Windhound, leading to acute hypoglycemia and irreversible liver cell destruction.
Excessive sodium and synthetic flavor enhancers in processed pet food spike blood pressure levels in the Silken Windhound and accelerate the progression of chronic kidney disease.
Low-quality corn, soy, and wheat gluten fillers trigger systemic inflammatory responses in the Silken Windhound, manifesting as persistent itchy skin rashes and compromised immune function.

Feeding guidelines

Offer a diet with good fat and protein to fuel this athletic sighthound.
Include omega-3 to support the coat and calm allergy-prone skin.
Feed two meals daily and pause exercise around feeding to reduce bloat risk.
Keep the dog lean, as sighthounds carry very little natural body fat.

Recommended brands

Royal Canin

Hill's Science Diet

Orijen

Purina Pro Plan

Acana

Health and wellness

Common issues, vaccinations, and daily care.

Healthcare and Preventative Guide for Silken Windhound

Silken Windhounds are graceful, medium sized sighthounds prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, progressive retinal atrophy, and skin allergies. Their lean build and moderate coat suit Indian climates up to 26 degrees Celsius, but they need protection during peak summer. They require 60 to 90 minutes of high energy exercise daily, including opportunities to sprint. Monthly health costs range from ₹1,200 to ₹1,800. Skin allergies can flare during humid months, so dietary management and regular grooming are important.

At a glance

Energy level: High
Monthly cost: ₹1,200 - ₹1,800
Exercise: 60 - 90 min/day

Hereditary and Common Health Conditions in Silken Windhound

Monitor breed-specific hereditary and common conditions with regular veterinary screening.

Hip Dysplasia: The Silken Windhound can be predisposed to hip dysplasia, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
Bloat: The Silken Windhound can be predisposed to bloat, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): The Silken Windhound can be predisposed to progressive retinal atrophy (pra), requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.
Skin Allergies: The Silken Windhound can be predisposed to skin allergies, requiring regular veterinary monitoring and targeted preventive care protocols.

Recommended activities

Free sprinting in large, securely fenced fields to satisfy their coursing instincts.
Lure coursing or chasing a flirt pole for focused, high intensity bursts.
Moderate paced runs alongside their owner for 30 to 40 minutes.
Gentle play sessions with similarly built sighthound companions.
Cool morning walks through parks with varied sights and scents.

Signs of stress

Frequent squinting or pawing at the eyes may signal progressive retinal atrophy.
Red, inflamed patches on the belly or inner thighs indicate skin allergy reactions.
Restlessness followed by attempted vomiting can be early signs of bloat.
Reluctance to sprint or sudden slowing during runs suggests hip discomfort.
Excessive licking of specific body areas points to localised allergic irritation.

Vaccination schedule

Growth stage	Vaccines
Age 6-7 Weeks	DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, and Parainfluenza) and Bordetella (Kennel Cough) to establish protective immunity for the Silken Windhound
Age 9-10 Weeks	DHPP, Bordetella, and Leptospirosis to establish protective immunity for the Silken Windhound
Age 12-13 Weeks	DHPP, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, and Lyme Disease to establish protective immunity for the Silken Windhound
Age 15-17 Weeks	DHPP, Rabies, Canine Influenza, and Lyme Disease to establish protective immunity for the Silken Windhound

General care tips

Feed two measured meals daily with a rest period after eating to prevent bloat.
Bathe only when necessary using gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo for sensitive skin.
Apply dog safe sunscreen on exposed skin areas during intense Indian summers.
Schedule annual eye exams to track any retinal changes early.
Provide padded resting spots as their lean frame lacks natural cushioning.

Senior care

Shorten sprint sessions to brief bursts and focus on gentle leash walks.
Monitor vision closely with biannual ophthalmology checks after age 9.
Add fish oil supplements to support skin barrier and joint lubrication.
Use supportive harnesses rather than collars to reduce neck strain on aging frames.

Grooming

Coat care, hygiene, and shedding notes.

Practical grooming notes for Silken Windhound

Silken Windhound dogs have a silky medium-length coat that sheds minimally. Their fine coat handles Indian heat naturally given their lean build. Their delicate silky feathering tangles in humid conditions without regular combing. Monthly grooming costs range from ₹1200 to ₹1800 for this medium-sized American breed.

At a glance

Shedding level: Low Shedding
Monthly cost: ₹1,200 - ₹1,800

Hygiene checklist

Brush the Silken Windhound once or twice a week with a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to lift loose hair before it settles around the house.
Bathing every few weeks works well for the Silken Windhound; just use a mild shampoo and dry the coat properly afterwards.
If the Silken Windhound has floppy ears, keep them dry and clean after swims or wet-weather walks. A quick paw and belly check after active play also helps catch mud or ticks early.
Trim the nails every two to three weeks so the Silken Windhound stays comfortable on hard floors and rough concrete.
Dental care should stay on the same schedule as the coat work for the Silken Windhound; tartar builds quietly if you skip it.

Grooming benefits

Keeps loose hair from building up on furniture and clothing around the house.
Makes the Silken Windhound's coat stay neat without turning grooming into a full-time job.
Helps the skin and coat look healthier in dusty, humid Indian weather.
After active play, gives you an easy chance to spot ear or skin issues before they turn into a problem.
Keeps the dog more comfortable after walks, play, and general daily mess.

Adopt and shop

Buying guidance, adoption guidance, and monthly costs.

Silken Windhound Adoption and Buying Guide

A Silken Windhound can be a wonderful fit when the home is ready for its size, coat and energy level. This breed tends to do best where there is enough room, enough time for exercise and a clear plan for feeding, training and vet care. With a price range of ?80,000 to ?1,50,000, the real question is not just what the dog costs today, but whether the household can support it well for 12 to 15 years.

At a glance

Market price: ₹80,000 - ₹1,50,000

General overview

Make sure the upfront cost of ?80,000 to ?1,50,000 sits comfortably inside your budget before you move ahead.
Check that your home and routine can support a medium breed dog that suits a house with backyard more naturally than a rushed setup.
Keep the short to medium coat in mind, because coat care and climate comfort are part of the long-term picture.
Ask yourself whether you are ready for a dog whose temperament will need structure and patient handling over a life of about 12 to 15 years.

Buying guidelines

Ask for clear pedigree, age and lineage details so you know exactly what you are paying for in a Silken Windhound.
Review vaccination, deworming and health records before you agree to the handover, not after.
Visit the breeder or seller in person so you can see how the puppy is housed, handled and socialized.
Make sure the puppy has been checked for common breed concerns and is ready to move into house with backyard living.
If possible, get written support on health and early care so the first few weeks feel more manageable, especially for a short to medium coat and a temperament that leans active.

Adoption guidelines

Check rescue groups and shelters first, because a good match can come from adoption rather than purchase.
Ask for any medical notes, behaviour history and recent vet information so you understand the dog before bringing it home.
Spend time with the dog in person if possible, because temperament and handling are easier to judge face to face than on paper.
Prepare a calm first-week setup with food, water, bedding and a quiet corner, especially if the dog is adjusting to a new house with backyard environment.
A short to medium coat and a personality that tends toward routine and companionship both benefit from a slow, patient start and a vet check soon after adoption.

Monthly expense summary

Monthly care₹4,650 - ₹6,600
Food₹2,250 - ₹3,000
Grooming₹1,200 - ₹1,800
Health₹1,200 - ₹1,800

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about the Silken Windhound.

What are the common health issues in the Silken Windhound?

The Silken Windhound can be prone to conditions such as Hip Dysplasia, Bloat, and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Not every dog will develop these, but routine veterinary checkups, a balanced diet, and a healthy weight go a long way in early detection and prevention.

How much activity does the Silken Windhound need?

Plan for about 60 to 90 minutes of activity each day for the Silken Windhound. This is an energetic breed, so a mix of walks, active play, and mental challenges works best to prevent boredom and restlessness.

Is the Silken Windhound suited to the Indian climate?

The Silken Windhound adapts reasonably well to most parts of India, being most comfortable around 15 to 26 degrees Celsius. Even so, provide shade and fresh water through the hottest months and avoid activity during the hottest part of the day. Basic heat precautions keep this dog healthy across Indian conditions.

What is the price of a Silken Windhound in India?

A Silken Windhound puppy in India typically costs ₹80,000 to ₹1,50,000, depending on lineage, breeder reputation, and city. Always choose an ethical breeder who shares health and vaccination records, and consider adoption as a rewarding alternative.

Does the Silken Windhound need a house with a yard?

The Silken Windhound is happiest with more room to move and ideally suits a house with a backyard. Access to a secure outdoor space helps it burn off energy, though committed daily exercise can still make apartment life workable for this dog.

Does the Silken Windhound shed a lot?

The Silken Windhound has a shedding level described as low shedding. This makes grooming easier, though regular brushing still keeps the coat and skin healthy.

Is the Silken Windhound easy to train?

The Silken Windhound tends to be quick to learn thanks to its intelligent nature. Short, consistent sessions with positive reinforcement bring the best results, and early socialisation helps this dog grow into a well mannered companion.