The Silken Windhound and the Borzoi, are not only physically similar but related canines. Silken Windhound is a mix of the Wippet and the Borzoi. Silken is typically a small version of the borzoi. 

They share not only a familial connection but also an extraordinary ability to thrive in cold weather. Thanks to their thick coat which traps heat and helps keep them warm in a chilly environment. These breeds exhibit high adaptability, making them prized companions for individuals and families in various climates.

Key Differences	Silken Windhound	Borzoi
Origin	United States	Russia
Height	United States	26-32 inches
Weight	20-55 pounds	60-105 pounds
Temperaments	Friendly, playful, affectionate	Affectionate, introverts
Lifespan	12-15 years	9-14 years
Energy level	High	Low
Shedding	Moderate shedders	Heavy shedders

Being a proud owner of the silken windhound (Lexy), and having interacted with the borzoi on several occasions, there’s a lot that sets these two apart size being one of the significant key differences.

In this article, we will delve into the unique characteristics and histories of these breeds as we uncover what sets the Silken Windhound and the Borzoi apart in the world of canines while highlighting their remarkable capacity to bring warmth to the hearts of their owners.

Silken Windhound

The Silken Windhound, originating in the United States, is a charming blend of the Borzoi and the Whippet. These medium-sized giants stand tall with a height ranging from 18 to 23 inches and weigh in at approximately 20 to 55 pounds.

One of the most notable features of the Silken Windhounds is their silky, straight, and medium-length coat that comes in shades of black, white, red, and silver. Their coat tends to grow longer along the back of the forelegs, around the neck, the brisket, hindquarters, and the tail.

Maintaining the Silken Windhound’s coat requires regular brushing, typically 3-4 times a week. Bathing is recommended approximately twice a month to keep them looking and smelling their best. Personally, I bathe mine on a weekly basis as she is too playful and he can be messy especially when playing with my son in the yard.

While they are moderate shedders and not prone to excessive drooling, their coat care regimen helps keep them looking pristine.

In addition to their striking appearance, Silken Windhounds are known for their delightful personalities. They are affectionate, friendly, intelligent, and playful, making them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike. This breed is one of the most suitable dogs for families with children, as they enjoy playing and interacting with them.

One thing I love about Lexy is that although he is playful he’s not a destructive buddy. He gives me space to work since I work from home but I also make sure to make it up for him so that he doesn’t get lonely especially when we are home alone.  

Also, the gentle nature and adaptability of silken windhounds make them well-suited for multi-pet households, where they can form harmonious relationships with other animals. 

However, supervision is required at first just to ensure that both parties get along well.

Silken Windhounds are energetic dogs with an innate love for physical activities. Therefore, exercise is needed to help them get rid of any pent-up energy that can make them restless. Daily long walks, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour, are essential to keep them happy and healthy.

You don’t have to skip walk sessions just because you feel lazy. On my lazy days, I go bike riding with Lexy. So, I simply connect him to the frame of the bike by a short leash just so that he doesn’t go past me and make me fall. I find it fun and fulfilling especially since he also enjoys running.

Involving them in agility activities is also a plus for such an intelligent beed to keep their minds active. 

Silken windhounds are healthy generally, but they tend to suffer genetic health issues at some point in their life. They may be prone to Lotus Syndrome, a genetic condition affecting their feet and legs, and deafness, which can be a concern in some individuals. Nevertheless, with proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups and high-quality nutrition, they can live a long and fulfilling life, often reaching the age of 12 to 15 years.

Height	18-23 inches
Weight	20-55 pounds
Lifespan	12-15 years
Temperaments	Affectionate, intelligent, and playful
Health issues	Lotus syndrome, deafness
Coat	Affectionate, intelligent,and playful

Borzoi

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian hound, originates in Russia just like the name suggests. These dogs are characterized by their long and narrow heads, complementing their lean and graceful bodies. Adorned in a silky, wavy, and medium-length coat that comes in shades of black, red, white and black, red and white, white and brown, and white and grey.

However, Borzoi has a tendency to shed heavily and therefore wouldn’t be suitable for people with allergies. To keep their stunning coat in check and minimize shedding, daily brushing is essential. Regular visits to a professional groomer for coat trimming are also recommended to maintain their elegant appearance. Also bathing them once a month will help keep them clean and fresh.

Borzoi are giant breeds, standing tall with a height ranging from 26 to 32 inches and weighing in at a substantial 60 to 105 pounds. Did I mention that Borzoi is good at sprinting? These dogs can sprint really fast making them excellent hunters. Also, this makes them good guards over your livestock protecting them from wild animals like coyotes.

Despite their size and ability to sprint Borzoi are not high-energy dogs, their exercise needs are surprisingly moderate. These dogs are known for their preference for relaxing with their owners, making them excellent companions for those who enjoy a more tranquil lifestyle. Due to their lazy lifestyle, long walks or running in a fenced yard is enough to cater for their daily exercise needs.

In terms of temperament, Borzois are calm and affectionate dogs. They have the potential to form strong bonds with their owners and get along well with children and other pets, especially if they are trained and socialized from a young age. However, it’s worth noting that Borzois tend to be introverted and reserved, which may cause them to appear somewhat cold towards unfamiliar visitors.

Borzois are trainable, but they do require patience and consistent training methods. They are intelligent dogs, and with the right approach, they can learn various commands and behaviors.

Despite their grace and charm, Borzois have some health concerns just like any other dog. Common issues include hip dysplasia, heart problems, osteochondritis dissecans (a joint disorder), and eye problems. Routine veterinary check-ups and a health-conscious approach to their care can help mitigate these potential issues.

In terms of lifespan, Borzois typically live between 9 to 14 years, making them cherished companions for a significant portion of their owners’ lives.

With their regal appearance and affectionate nature, Borzoi makes wonderful companions for those who appreciate their unique qualities and are willing to invest time and effort into their care and training.

Height	26-32 inches
Weight	60-105 pounds
Lifespan	9-14 years
Temperaments	Calm, affectionate,
Health issues	Progressive retinal atrophy, elbow & hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, heart problem
Coat	Silky, wavy, medium length

Key Differences between Silken Windhound and Borzoi

While they belong to the same dog group “the hound” Silken Windhound and Borzoi are quite different in a number of ways. 

Borzoi are large giant dogs compared to the silken who are significantly smaller weighing about 20-55 pounds. Silken windhounds have a silky, straight, and medium-length coat, which requires regular brushing while Borzois have a silky, wavy coat that is also medium in length.  Borzoi are high-maintenance dogs compared to silken since they are heavy shedders and require daily brushing. 

Despite their size, borzoi are low-energy dogs compared to their counterpart as they prefer lounging and relaxing with their owner. Simply a quiet and calm lifestyle. However, they are not lazy dogs. Borzoi makes good hunting dogs and can help protect your livestock from wild animals due to their sprinting nature. For this reason, they also require daily exercise though moderate to keep them happy and healthy.

While they may not be the most energetic dogs, Silken is more active, being a playful dog. Therefore their exercise is a bit demanding compared to borzoi.

Their temperament is one of the most distinct traits that set them apart. Silken Windhounds are known for their affectionate, friendly, intelligent, and playful nature. They are generally easy to train, child-friendly, and can adapt well to multi-pet households.

Borzois are calm and affectionate but tend to be introverted and reserved. However, they also require training and socialization, especially from a young age, to get along well with children and other pets.