Three silkens playing. Photo credit: Joyce Chin

Welcome to the wonderful world of silkens

Silken Windhounds are known for their friendly dispositions and make excellent family pets. They are happiest when sharing family activities, are easily trainable, and eager to please. Like other sighthounds, Silken Windhounds need room to run and daily exercise, but they are normally quiet and well-behaved in the house. They require little grooming and are naturally clean and tidy.

Although not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club, the United Kennel Club recognized Silken Windhound in 2011. Many owners compete in UKC events (including Conformation, Rally-O, Obedience, & Lure Coursing) and attend their annual Premier in Kalamazoo, MI. To learn more about conformation events, check out the showing with silkens page.

A white and fawn brindle silken windhound going gaiting around the show ring.Photo by Ashley Cirimeli
Photo by Ashley Cirimeli
A closeup of a silver brindle silken in the show ring. Photo by Ashley Cirimeli
Photo by Ashley Cirimeli
A silken windhound gaiting around the ring at Boofest 2021. Photo by Ashley Cirimeli
Photo by Ashley Cirimeli

The American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA), Large Gazehound Racing Association (LGRA), National Oval Track Racing Association (NOTRA), & National Open Field Coursing Association (NOFCA) have all fully recognized Silkens; and the breed has since been amassing lure coursing & amateur racing titles & awards. Prestigious all-Sighthound breed performance awards won by Silkens include ASFA’s International Invitational Best in Event, & LGRA’s Klar Award for the years the top racer of all breeds & Fahal Award for a 2x Klar Award winner.

Two silkens running ASFA. Photo credit: Megan Lundberg