Story

History of the Silken Windsprite

The history and origin of the Silken Windsprite is still surrounded by myths and is not 100% certain.

But we can say one thing with certainty. The birthplace of the Longhair Whippet / Silken Windsprite was here at

Walter A. Wheeler Jr. (1924 - 2013) in Sherborn/Massachusetts USA.

Photo: courtesy of Google Maps, Street View.

Historical summary

The American Whippet breeder A. Wheeler claimed in the 1980s that long-haired Whippets were being born in his Whippet litters. He called this long-haired variety of the short-haired Whippets "Longhair Whippet". Walter A. Wheeler caused quite a stir with this and it was doubted that these were really pure Whippets with longer fur. A DNA test was later ordered to clarify the matter.

DNA tests showed that the Whippet, Sheltie and Borzoi breeds must have been involved in the creation of the breed.

Walter A. Wheeler, who dedicated himself to breeding Whippets under the kennel name "Windsprite" from 1958 onwards, claimed until the end that he had not crossed any other breeds with the Whippet, he had merely rediscovered a rare long-hair gene and consolidated it in his dogs through targeted breeding selection, according to his version.

The term “Silken Windsprite” was established as an abbreviation for the term “Silken coated Windsprite Whippets”. Translated, the name means “silken wind goblin”.

The first Silken Windsprites came to Germany in 2001. The first Silken Windsprite Club was founded in Germany in 2004. The breed is now bred in a controlled manner in 5 clubs in this country: the nationally recognized DWZRV, the SWC, the DLWC, IG Windsprite Germany and the Windsprite Friends.

In its country of origin, America, the breed is bred in the IWC (International Windsprite Club).

The Silken Windsprite is very popular and is now bred in many countries, such as Belgium, Austria, Sweden, Poland, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Slovakia, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

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Whippet

The Whippet is a short-haired, medium-sized sighthound with the typical build of a European sighthound. It is powerful, muscular, slim and elegant, everything needed for a fast sprint.

The Whippet comes in a wide variety of colors.

It is a fast visual hunter, which you should always be aware of when walking in nature.

This quality benefits him on the racetrack. There he can show what he is capable of.

In a group, the Whippet gets along well, is adaptable and very social.

Size: 44cm - 51cm

Sheltie (Shetland Sheepdog)

The Sheltie is a small, hard-working herding dog. It's basically a miniature collie. Its beautiful long hair and lush ruff are striking.

The Sheltie is very docile and likes to be challenged. Today, you can admire this small herding dog in many dog sports disciplines.

He is a loving and watchful family dog, fond of children and friendly. The Sheltie is always up for a game and loves activity. He can be a little reserved around strangers.

Size: approx. 37 cm

Borzoi

The Borzoi is a large sighthound from Russia. With its dry build, convex back line and distinctive head, the Borzoi's build is unmistakable. Its appearance is aristocratic and noble.

The Borzoi is a sight and chase hunter who is quickly gripped by hunting fever. Therefore, extreme caution is always required when unleashing the dog.

Despite his hunting ambitions, his nature is gentle and social.

The Borzoi's abundant coat is slightly wavy or forms short curls.

Its hair is silky, soft and supple. On the head, ears and limbs the hair is satin, short, lying close to the body, otherwise abundant.

Size: 75cm - 85cm