The primary goal of ISWS is to protect and advance the purebred Silken Windhound dogs, to protect the interests of its members, and to educate its members in the areas of breeding, exhibiting, and maintaining the health and purity of the Silken Windhound breed. Learn more about ISWS here.

A Brief History of the Silken Windhound. After considering options since 1975, a Borzoi breeder, Francie Stull, determined that a smaller hound with wonderful temperament, long coat, all-around good health, with the poise and sporting abilities of the larger sighthounds, would be an ideal second breed for her kennel.

Standard for the Silken Windhound. GENERAL APPEARANCE: The Silken Windhound is an elegant, small to medium-sized sighthound with a moderately long silky coat. Its classic lines and athletic build are the hallmark of a true coursing dog.

The Silken Windhound is an established breed with an Official Breed Standard approved by the International Silken Windhound Society. Anyone who plans to breed Silkens must adhere to the criteria set forth in the Standard.

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.

In the last 13 years, the Silken Windhound has seen major advances in both population and event participation worldwide; with an expanding fancy in the UK, Canada, Northern Europe, and Japan. There are smaller but enthusiastic populations in…

Being listed here does not mean any of these breeders are endorsed or recommend by ISWS, who has no regulatory powers over the actions of individual Breeders, so it is important that you research any breeder you are considering buying a Silken Windhound from carefully to ensure their breeding program matches your wants and needs.

In November 1998, a dedicated and resolute group of people from diverse regions of the United States and Europe came together on the Internet to communicate with one another for the sole purpose of advancing the Silken Windhound breed.

Silken Windhounds are in the minority of dog breeds in that they are a remarkably healthy breed. The life expectancy of a typical Silken Windhound can easily extend into their mid teens while experiencing fewer health issues than are typically found in their foundation breeds.

The International Silken Windhound Society (ISWS) is proud to support Silken Windhound breeders in producing, to the best of their ability, the highest quality Silken Windhound, while maintaining overall breed health and genetic diversity.