Silky does not mean strictly straight
The ISWS standard allows straight, slightly wavy or curly coat, with feathering on the legs, body, neck and tail. A wave alone is not evidence that the coat is wrong or needs straightening. When considering a dog, look at the care its own coat needs rather than choosing solely from a posed photograph. Ask to see how the furnishings are checked after outings and how tangles are handled comfortably. The same standard describes a coursing hound with strong prey drive in the field. A gentle manner on the sofa does not establish safety around an animal running outside. Identify secure exercise space and plan controlled introductions to household pets; do not test compatibility by allowing a chase.[1]
Ask what heart checked means
The society’s veterinary explanation distinguishes listening with a stethoscope, ultrasound imaging, a short ECG and longer Holter recording. An ultrasound assesses structure and pumping, whereas ECG-based monitoring examines electrical activity. Intermittent rhythm abnormalities may not appear during a brief recording. For a prospective puppy, ask which assessments were done on the parents and request the dated interpretations, not simply proof that a monitor was rented or worn. Let your veterinarian decide what is appropriate for your dog; no single test should be presented as a lifetime cardiac clearance. If a report raises a question, resolve it with the veterinary team before treating athletic performance or outward fitness as reassurance. The practical aim is a clear record of what was checked and what, if anything, needs follow-up.[2]
Keep the MDR1 result in the treatment record
ISWS discusses MDR1-associated drug sensitivity in the breed and recommends testing breeding dogs. Obtain the individual result if available and share it with the veterinarian, including any emergency clinic that does not hold the usual records. A breed name or a parent’s appearance cannot establish the dog’s status. Ask about the exact medication being considered rather than relying on a blanket list copied online. Do not stop prescribed prevention, change a dose or select a replacement medicine yourself. If the result is unknown, state that clearly so the clinician can plan care with the information available. A DNA result about medication sensitivity also does not replace the separate cardiac or eye records.[3]
Frequently asked questions
Can a Silken Windhound naturally have a wavy or curly coat?
Yes. The ISWS standard permits straight, slightly wavy or curly coat. Choose grooming around the individual’s comfort and maintenance needs rather than trying to force a uniformly straight finish.
Source [1]Is a Holter recording the same as a heart ultrasound?
No. The ISWS veterinary explanation distinguishes longer ECG rhythm recording from ultrasound assessment of heart structure and pumping. Ask which test was performed and have the veterinarian interpret the report.
Source [2]Should I avoid all medication if my Silken has an MDR1 variant?
No blanket decision should be made from a breed page. Share the test result with your veterinarian and ask about the specific drug and dose. Do not alter prescribed treatment on your own.
Source [3]FAQ sources
- International Silken Windhound Society — Breed standard ↗FAQ reference 1
- ISWS — About Holter testing, by Danielle Steenkamp DVM ↗FAQ reference 2
- ISWS — MDR1 drug sensitivity ↗FAQ reference 3
Sources & methodology
Breed-level measurements and comparison scores provide context. They do not predict an individual dog's health, behaviour or suitability. Open the original publisher pages below to verify the facts and compare any later updates.
- International Silken Windhound Society — Breed standard ↗Reference 1 · reviewed 2026-09-27
- ISWS — About Holter testing, by Danielle Steenkamp DVM ↗Reference 2 · reviewed 2026-09-27
- ISWS — MDR1 drug sensitivity ↗Reference 3 · reviewed 2026-09-27
- American Kennel Club — Silken Windhound care ↗Reference 4 · reviewed 2026-09-27
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