It’s a new day, and your dog is ready to get it started. But what should you tackle first? While it may not seem like a big deal to flip-flop on whether you feed or walk your dog first, veterinarians say timing matters.

Learn more about how to set your dog up for success around mealtime to prevent stomach upset, potty accidents, bloat and more.

Why is a Routine Important?

There are several reasons it’s important for pet parents to stick to a consistent routine your dog can depend on, and feeding and walking make up two major parts of your dog’s day.

“Strategizing your dog’s walking and feeding schedule is important for general training and creating a consistent routine,” Fox says.

A routine is especially important, Fox adds, if you are in the middle of potty training your dog or if they have any medical conditions that affect proper digestion.

Guidelines by Life Stage

Some guidelines regarding the proper timing for feeding and walking apply to all dogs, but there are also specific situations to keep in mind concerning the age of your dog.

Puppies

Puppies are still learning the ropes when it comes to when and where to go to the bathroom. That’s why it’s better to err on the side of more potty breaks.

“They often need a chance to pee and poop before and after meals, as well as first thing in the morning and after any periods alone or in the crate,” Fox says. “In these cases, you’ll want to take your pup to the potty first to prevent accidents if it has been more than 30 minutes since their last pee/poop.”

After dinner, you’ll want to walk your puppy at least once more before bedtime—preferably twice—so you’re not stuck cleaning up a mess they left overnight.

Adult Dogs

While adult dogs don’t need quite as many potty breaks as their teeny counterparts, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind around mealtime and bathroom time.

“Most adult dogs will need a chance to pee and poop first thing in the morning before eating as well as in the evenings if they’ve been home alone for a few hours or more,” Fox says.

Some dogs may even be resistant to eating their food until they have a bathroom break. Emptying the tank before mealtime is almost always best practice.

Special Medical Considerations

There are, as with most things in life, a few exceptions to general guidelines. Dogs with certain medical conditions—or who are at a higher risk of certain medical conditions—may need a few more accommodations.

• For dogs with bilious vomiting syndrome: “Dogs with bilious vomiting syndrome need to eat more frequent, small meals,” Fox says. “They may do best having a very small snack first thing in the morning before a walk, as well as right before bed to avoid long periods of time with an empty stomach.”
• For dogs at high risk of bloat (GDV): “Some large and giant breed dogs are at a higher risk of these conditions, and there is a hereditary component as well,” Fox says. “For dogs at high risk, it is recommended to avoid intense exercise close to meal times (right before and right after eating).”

Short Walks vs. Exercise Sessions

Before scratching your dog’s entire daily routine, Fox says it’s important to keep in mind what actually counts as risky exercise near mealtime and what is perfectly safe.

“A short, controlled leash walk to pee and poop is going to be fine before or after eating but longer, more intense exercise sessions should not be done close to meal times,” Fox says.

Talk to Your Vet

All dogs are built differently, and what may work for Fido may not work for Bella. If you have any questions about your dog’s particular needs, connect with your veterinarian.

• Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

There’s no doubt dogs make wonderful companions, but some were literally born for it. While beloved breeds like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers were developed for specific jobs, companion dog breeds generally have no working history. They’re bred simply to provide love, comfort, and support to their families.

But what do dogs bred for companionship look like today? It might surprise you that they’re not all toy breeds and lap dogs. Companion breeds come in all shapes and sizes. Some are even working breeds that have developed a reputation for family-friendliness.

For our purposes, a companion dog breed is one that is people-oriented. These dogs form close bonds with family, preferring to spend time with their human pack over all else. They’re friendly, eager to please, and adaptable to various lifestyles (as long as their emotional and physical needs are met).

Ready to find your new furry best friend? We’ve assembled a list of the 15 best companion breeds to help you get started on your journey.

1. Affenpinscher

Originally developed as mousers, Affenpinschers have become popular as small companion dogs. They’re known for their wild, wiry coats and affectionate personalities. Weighing no more than 10 pounds at maturity, this small breed is well-suited to apartment life. Requiring moderate daily exercise, they’ll be satisfied with indoor play sessions and a walk or two outside.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Short to medium, wiry
• Height: 9-11.5 inches
• Weight: 7-10 pounds
• Colors: Black, black and tan, black and silver, red, beige
• Trainability: Moderately trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with older children, urban dwellers

2. Bichon Frise

An all-around friendly little dog, the Bichon Frise was developed for companionship among European nobility. Bichons get along well with children and other dogs. They also tend to respond well to positive reinforcement training and have been known to excel in dog sports such as obedience, agility, and even canine freestyle dance. While their personalities are relatively undemanding, their fluffy coats require regular grooming.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long, curly, double-coated
• Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
• Weight: 12-18 pounds
• Colors: Usually white (sometimes with areas of apricot, buff, or cream color)
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Individuals, families, people with allergies

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels—affectionately known as Cavs, for short—are intelligent and eager to please. Though developed from larger sporting spaniels, they were always intended as a companion dog breed. They’re known for their gentle, loving temperaments and playful natures. While well-suited for family life, their silky coats require regular upkeep.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Medium-length, wavy, and silky
• Height: 12-13 inches
• Weight: 13-18 pounds
• Colors: Blenheim, black and tan, black and white, ruby
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Families with children, urban dwellers, multi-pet households

4. Chihuahua

The epitome of a large dog in a small body, Chihuahuas are known for their big, sassy personalities. Originally developed in Mexico, they’re one of the oldest dog breeds native to the Americas but have adapted well to modern life, especially city life. Chihuahuas require consistent socialization and training—responding well to positive methods—but they make loyal and loving companions for many homes.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Short or medium-length and smooth
• Height: 5-8 inches
• Weight: Up to 6 pounds
• Colors: Widely varied
• Trainability: Moderately trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, urban dwellers, families with older children

5. Cocker Spaniel

Bred for hunting and retrieving, Cocker Spaniels retain their athleticism, but their loving personalities make them good companion dogs. The Cocker Spaniel shines as a family pet, getting along equally well with children and other dogs. They’re affectionate, playful, and gentle by nature but do require regular grooming and plenty of exercise.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long, silky, double-coated
• Height: 14.5-15.5 inches (male), 13.5-14.5 inches (female)
• Weight: 25-30 pounds (male), 20-25 pounds (female)
• Colors: Black, golden, liver, red, parti-color
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Active individuals and families, multi-pet households

6. French Bulldog

Easily identifiable by their big, bat-like ears and short snouts, French Bulldogs are popular among city dwellers. With their playful temperaments and moderate exercise and mental stimulation needs, Frenchies are less demanding than some other small breeds. They’ll be happy with a daily walk, some active play, and plenty of quality time with the people they love.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Short and smooth
• Height: 11-13 inches
• Weight: Up to 28 pounds
• Colors: Brindle, solid colors, parti-color
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with children, urban dwellers

7. Golden Retriever

While technically a working breed developed for hunting, the Golden Retriever consistently ranks among the most popular dog breeds in the US. Goldens are beloved for their sweet and affectionate personalities, as well as their intelligence and eagerness to please. These dogs make great family pets and adapt to a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a family companion or an adventure buddy, this breed is one to consider.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Medium-length and double-coated
• Height: 23-24 inches (male), 21.5-22.5 inches (female)
• Weight: 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female)
• Colors: Dark to light golden
• Trainability: Highly trainable
• Best for: Active individuals and families, families with children

8. Havanese

Natives of Cuba, Havanese dogs are smart, playful, and silly. Born extroverts and former circus dogs, they’re eager to make friends with anyone who crosses their path while remaining devoted to their human families. The Havanese is the quintessential companion dog breed, but they also excel in dog sports, such as obedience and trick training. Despite the length of their silky double coats, they don’t shed excessively and may be appropriate for allergy sufferers.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long, silky, double-coated
• Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
• Weight: 7-13 pounds
• Colors: Widely varied
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with children, people with allergies

9. Maltese

Known for their long, silky coats, the Maltese dog was bred specifically for companionship. While sometimes stubborn, they’re smart and charming and generally respond well to positive reinforcement training. Maltese are incredibly affectionate with their human families and are happiest with caretakers who have plenty of time, affection, and attention to dedicate to them.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long and silky
• Height: 7-9 inches
• Weight: Up to 7 pounds
• Colors: White (sometimes with lemon or tan markings)
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with older children, urban dwellers

10. Papillon

With their elegant appearance, you might not expect the Papillon to be as hardy and athletic as a dog twice their size. However, they make incredible agility dogs and consistently rank as top contenders in the sport. For those less ambitious, these pups can also learn all types of tricks.

Friendly and energetic, Papillons are affectionate with family and are one of the best dog breeds for first-time pet parents. Because they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, they’re best suited to active lifestyles or pet parents interested in training their pup for dog sports.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Medium-length and silky
• Height: 8-11 inches
• Weight: 5-10 pounds
• Colors: Various combinations of white, black, red, sable, and fawn
• Trainability: Highly trainable
• Best for: Active individuals and families, urban dwellers

11. Pomeranian

Though descended from working breeds like the German Spitz, the Pomeranian is a companion dog through and through. This tiny toy breed has a long, fluffy coat and an affectionate personality, making them the ideal cuddle buddy. Pomeranians are bright and alert but not overly energetic. They’ll appreciate a daily walk or active training session followed by a quick nap curled up in your lap.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long and double-coated
• Height: 6-7 inches
• Weight: 3-7 pounds
• Colors: Widely varied
• Trainability: Moderately trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with older children, urban dwellers

12. Poodle

With three sizes to choose from, the Poodle is a versatile breed. The largest of the three, the Standard Poodle, was bred for water retrieving. However, the smaller Toy Poodle and Miniature Poodle are primarily kept for companionship. Poodles are smart, sweet, and low-shedding, making them a great choice for people with allergies. If you’re up to the challenge of regular trims and consistent training, a Poodle could be your perfect pup.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long and curly
• Height: Up to 10 inches (toy), 10-15 inches (miniature), over 15 inches (standard)
• Weight: 4-6 pounds (toy), 10-15 pounds (miniature), 40-70 pounds (standard)
• Colors: White, gray, brown, cream, red, silver, apricot
• Trainability: Highly trainable
• Best for: Active individuals and families, people with allergies

13. Pug

Charming, affectionate, and mellow, the Pug is well-suited to urban life. These little dogs need daily exercise, but a neighborhood walk or two should do. Afterward, they’re perfectly happy to snuggle up on the couch for a snooze. Pugs are generally good with other dogs and get along well with children, making them an excellent fit for families and multi-pet households. Just prepare yourself for some loud snoring!

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Short and smooth
• Height: 10-13 inches
• Weight: 14-18 pounds
• Colors: Black, fawn
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with children, urban dwellers

14. Shih Tzu

Another pint-sized pup known for having luxurious locks, the Shih Tzu is the ideal companion dog breed. They’re highly affectionate—particularly with children—and have only moderate requirements for exercise and mental stimulation. As long as you’re willing to maintain their coats, Shih Tzus are adaptable to a variety of lifestyles.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Silky and flowy double coat
• Height: 9-10.5 inches
• Weight: 9-16 pounds
• Colors: Widely varied
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Single pet parents, families with children, urban dwellers

15. Yorkshire Terrier

Affectionately known as Yorkies, Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred to hunt rats and other vermin. However, their beautiful coats and affectionate personalities quickly earned them a lasting place among the best companion dog breeds. They’re small, smart, and sometimes bossy, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more loyal friend.

Breed Overview:

• Coat type: Long and silky
• Height: 7-8 inches
• Weight: Up to 7 pounds
• Colors: Blue and gold, blue and tan, black and tan, black and gold
• Trainability: Very trainable
• Best for: Active singles or families, urban dwellers, people with allergies

Puppy parasites come in various forms, including bugs, worms, fungi, and single-celled organisms like protozoa. These parasites can cause aggravating symptoms at best and deathly illness at worst. Thankfully, there are parasite preventatives and treatments that you can get over-the-counter and from your vet.  

The word parasite refers to an organism that lives off of another—in this case your puppy—at the expense of that puppy. Parasites may live on the skin, within the skin, and inside the body, such as in your puppy’s intestines or bloodstream.

Here are the internal and external puppy parasites you should be aware of and what they can do to your pet.

One of the scariest things a pet parent can experience is not knowing what to do if your dog is choking. Every year in America, over one million dogs see the veterinarian for incidents related to bully sticks and chews. Fortunately, there are things pet parents can do to prevent emergencies, vet visits, or worse.

For example, famed dog trainer Brandon McMillan recalls a time a dog he was training suddenly got sick and lethargic. He rushed the pup to the vet where they found she swallowed 6 and half tennis balls and needed surgery. Toys and chews may not seem dangerous, but anything that is small enough to fit in your dog’s mouth, it can be swallowed.

In this article, we’ll share pro tips, things to avoid, and what to do if your dog starts choking. Be sure to bookmark and share this article with dog-loving friends and family.

Is Your Dog Choking, Reverse Sneezing, or Gagging?

“In general, reverse sneezing often sounds dramatic (almost like snorting or honking), but your pet is still breathing and typically recovers on their own within a minute or so,” according to Johnna Devereaux, Chief Nutrition Officer, Bow Wow Labs. “Normal (non-choking) gagging usually happens after eating, drinking, or licking something and generally resolves quickly without signs of distress. The latter being key.”

Devereaux says choking in dogs is distinct. Your pet may panic, seem distressed, paw at the mouth, have dilated eyes, and unable to make a sound of breathe. In this case, a complete airway obstruction is likely. This is an emergency because there is no air movement, and it is considered an emergency.

What To Do If Your Dog Is Choking

It can be very upsetting, but Devereaux says the first thing to do is try to stay as calm as possible and quickly assess the situation. You must act fast and follow these steps:

1. Check their mouth by carefully opening the mouth to see if you can spot the obstruction. (Just be cautious because a frightened pet may unintentionally bite.)
2. If you see something clearly blocking the airway and it’s reachable, do NOT use any type of tool. Only do this if you are certain you won’t push the object further down—try a gentle finger sweep from the side of the mouth to remove it. (Don’t blindly reach or jab into the throat as this can cause more damage or push the object deeper!)
3. If you can’t see it or remove it; this is where knowing CPR for pets comes in handy, as you may be able to dislodge it. You need to call your vet ASAP while someone else drives, or if you’re alone, get on your way while calling.

Devereaux indicates that even if you can clear the obstruction, it’s still best to have your pet checked to ensure there was no additional damage. A quick veterinary exam can identify any additional trauma, irritation, or swelling that may have resulted from the event and may not be immediately obvious to you.

How To Prevent Your Pet From Choking

It’s essential to understand your dog and their chewing style. If you have a very aggressive chewer, avoid giving them anything too small. Alternatively, if your dog is a fast eater or inhales everything you provide, avoid chews entirely and offer a lick mat experience instead.

Devereaux says for dogs that are “ballers,” make sure the ball you use is large enough that it cannot fit entirely in their mouth. And for cats, just be cautious and avoid leaving plastic bags lying around.

Always supervise your dog when they’re enjoying something edible—even if it’s a treat they’ve had a hundred times before. Dogs can be unpredictable, and even a familiar chew or quick snack can go down the wrong way.

Keeping an eye on them allows you to step in if something goes awry. It’s a simple habit that can make all the difference. Also, use a safety device like the Bow Wow Buddy whenever offering chews like bully sticks, collagen sticks, or cheese chews.

What Are The Most Commonly Choked On Items?

Dogs generally choke on food-related items like bully sticks, cheese chews, collagen chews, tracheas, bones. Devereaux says similar items are especially risky when a dog no longer has the ability to hold the chew between their paws.

“They often put the remaining piece in their mouth and try to swallow it whole.” she says. “But it’s not just food-related items; balls (especially those that are too small and can fit entirely inside a dog’s mouth), sticks, chew toys, and even food packaging and plastic wrap can also become dangerous if a dog chews on them or swallows them because they smell/taste good.”

The risk of choking to cats is associated with non-food items they bat around or chew on such as hair ties, rubber bands, tinsel, string, and small pieces from plastic bags.

Pro Tip: When it comes to both dogs and cats, prevention begins with understanding that they explore using their nose and mouth.

Should the Heimlich Maneuver or CPR be Performed?

“I highly recommend that every pet parent take a CPR course,” Deveraux indicates. “You can find an online course with the American Red Cross at redcross.org, but I believe there is value in in-person training on a pet mannequin. I suggest googling CPR courses in your area if in-person training is something you prefer.”

Common Mistakes Pet Parents Make

These are the things Devereaux says to keep these things in mind regarding pets choking:

1. The biggest mistake pet parents make is being too confident about chews and items around their pets, especially dogs with chews and treats.
2. Never leave your dog unattended to chew or consume anything. I have a rule in my house: if it can’t be consumed and swallowed by the time I reach the front door and look back to check that it’s been swallowed, it doesn’t get offered to my dog.
3. Supervision makes the difference between being able to intervene if something goes wrong and not being able to.

Here’s how pet safety expert Denise Fleck explains how and when to perform the Heimlich Maneuver on pets.

Learn More About Pet Safety

All About Hawk Vests For Dogs

Dog CPR: Step by Step

Images: by Alexa from Pixabay

Affection Level	High
Friendliness	High
Kid-Friendly	High
Pet-Friendly	Medium
Exercise Needs	High
Playfulness	High
Energy Level	High
Trainability	High
Intelligence	High
Tendency to Bark	Medium
Amount of Shedding	Low

History of the Border Doodle

Designer dogs, an intentional cross between two purebred dogs, skyrocketed in popularity following the labradoodle’s inception in the late 20th century. Like other poodle mixes, aka “doodle” dogs, the exact origin of border doodles is unknown.

“The first intentional bordoodle litters likely appeared in the United States around the 1990s or early 2000s,” Marx says. “Breeders quickly noticed that these dogs inherited the best qualities of their parent breeds: the intelligence and trainability of the border collie and the low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat of the poodle.”

One goal of creating hybrid dogs was to combine the best traits of two breeds and minimize potential health issues associated with purebred dogs, like genetic disorders or breed-specific health problems, Marx adds.

While border doodles aren’t recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), they are recognized by the American Canine Hybrid Club, Designer Kennel Club, Dog Registry of America), and Designer Breed Registry.

Border Doodle Care

Border doodles are highly intelligent and energetic dogs who are especially keen on keeping their minds sharp and their bodies active on a daily basis. Early socialization and consistent positive reinforcement training will help a border doodle thrive by building confidence and good habits. Plus, they’ll love the opportunity to learn and make their pet parents proud. While they do have low-shedding coats, they require regular grooming to keep their coats free from mats and tangles.

Exercise

With athletic parents like the border collie and poodle, it may come as no surprise that the border doodle needs to stay active on a daily basis, too. As dogs with medium-low to medium-high energy levels, they need about 45–60 minutes of exercise daily to keep both their bodies and minds in top shape, Marx says.

A few activities that are great for a border doodle’s physical activity and mental stimulation include:

“They thrive on variety, so mixing things up helps prevent boredom,” Marx says. “Timing can vary per energy level of the individual dog, as there are variations within the breed; some puppies may naturally have a lower energy level, and some may have a higher drive or energy level.”

Keeping a border doodle active is key to a happy, well-balanced dog, he says. Without enough exercise, border doodles can become bored, possibly resulting in unwanted behaviors, like chewing or excessive barking.

Grooming

Border doodles tend to have low-to-no shedding coats due to their poodle genes, as well as some low-shedding border collie genes, Marx says. Even so, routine grooming is important to keep their coats clean and healthy.

Marx shares these grooming tips for your border doodle:

• Brush their coat 2–3 times a week to prevent tangles and mats.
• Bathe them every 4–6 weeks or as needed to keep their coat clean and fresh.
• Take them to a professional groomer—or groom them at home—every 6–8 weeks (depending on their coat type).
• Trim their nails regularly to avoid overgrowth and discomfort.
• Brush their teeth several times a week to prevent dental issues.

Border doodles may shed lightly during warmer months, requiring more frequent brushing weekly. Additionally, their coats can grow thicker during the colder months, which may require more trips to the groomer to prevent matting.

Training

The border doodle is a brainy breed who loves to learn and put their smarts to the test any opportunity they get. “Border collies and poodles are among the most intelligent dog breeds, and they excel in learning and performing tasks quickly,” Marx says. “Their eagerness to please makes training a fun and rewarding experience.”

Both parent breeds are naturally obedient for the most part. It’s important to note that they can have somewhat of an independence streak due to their working dog roots.

You can—and should—start training your puppy as soon as you bring them home, as early as 8–10 weeks old when they’re open to new experiences. Marx considers this hybrid breed “a joy to train” and shares these tips on how to help them grow into a well-mannered, confident dog:

• Train them using positive reinforcement methods.
• Start with basic commands, like sit, stay, come, and down to establish a strong foundation.
• Challenge their smarts with more advanced dog tricks, like rollover or fetching specific items.
• Introduce socialization early on to expose them to different people, pets, and environments to build their confidence and reduce anxiety.
• Stay consistent and patient to provide clear, steady guidance and provide plenty of encouragement.

Being a border collie mix, one instinctual behavior to watch for in particular is herding. Training can help prevent your border doodle from herding children or other pets.

Common Health Problems

Border collies and poodles are healthy dog breeds overall. Like any other breed, there are some hereditary health issues both may be prone to, and the same applies to border doodles. Responsible dog breeders prioritize the overall health and well-being of their dogs no matter the breed.

Some potential inherited health conditions of border doodles may include:

Diet and Nutrition

Like all dog breeds, border doodles should eat a high-quality dog food that’s nutritionally balanced and life stage-appropriate for optimal health. Most pet parents feed two measured meals twice a day. When feeding treats, make sure they make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet to prevent unwanted weight gain. Consult your veterinarian to learn more about the best type of dog food and quantity based on your border doodle’s age, size, activity level, and individual needs. Always have fresh, clean water available.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Border Doodle

If you’re looking to purchase a border doodle, expect to pay $2,500–$3,500 on average from a reputable breeder, Marx says. The cost can vary depending on factors, such as the breeder’s reputation and location, the parent’s lineage, and whether the puppy has unique coat colors or specific traits. Always look for an ethical, responsible breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of the breed.

Because hybrid breeds like border doodles are in high demand, Marx says it’s relatively rare to come across one at a rescue or shelter. However, it’s not impossible.

If you’d like to adopt a border doodle, adoption fees are generally a few hundred dollars. Below are a few places to start your search:

It’s always a great idea to check your local shelters or rescues and breed-specific groups as well to see if any border doodles may be in need of a home.

Border Doodle Overview

Border doodles are whip-smart, playful, and adaptable dogs who can make excellent companions for active families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a therapy or service dog. Daily exercise and enrichment are essential to keeping these dogs happy and healthy. “A bordoodle thrives in a home that offers plenty of love, attention, activity, and mental stimulation,” Marx says.

Pros of the Border Doodle

• A great fit for active families and couples
• Loves to be around their human family members
• Relatively easy to groom

Cons of the Border Doodle

• Requires extensive daily physical activity
• Prefers not to be alone for long periods of time
• May engage in unwanted, destructive behaviors if bored

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

While on your search for your new furry friend, it’s always best to do thorough research on the border doodle to learn more about their care and whether they’re compatible with your lifestyle. Talk with border doodle owners, reputable breeders, rescue groups, and veterinary professionals for more information.

If you’re interested in breeds that are similar to the border doodle, check out:

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!

Affection Level	High
Friendliness	High
Kid-Friendly	High
Pet-Friendly	Medium
Exercise Needs	High
Playfulness	Medium
Energy Level	Medium
Trainability	High
Intelligence	High
Tendency to Bark	Low
Amount of Shedding	Medium

History of the Silken Windhound

The silken windhound was developed by borzoi breeder Francie Stull, who sought to create a smaller, long-coated sighthound with a gentle temperament, good health, and the sporting abilities of the larger sighthounds.

The foundation dogs were carefully chosen from top-winning show and performance borzoi lines, a multi-generational line of small whippet-based lurchers, and whippets from show and coursing lines. The first recognized silken windhound litter was born in 1985, and the breed was officially named in 1998. The International Silken Windhound Society (ISWS) was established in 1999 to maintain pedigrees and DNA-verified registrations. 

Although not yet recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club first recognized the silken windhound in 2011. 

Silken Windhound Care

Like any dog, silken windhounds require regular activity, mental stimulation, consistent training, and occasional grooming to keep them happy and healthy. Here’s what you need to know about their care needs. 

Exercise

“For puppies, the general consensus is silken puppies (and sighthound puppies in general) should have regular access to large enclosed outdoor spaces for ample free running,” Golebiewski says. “This encourages appropriate muscle and skeletal growth in the puppy.” She adds that, if possible, having a second silken windhound or other puppy that enjoys zooming around will help them get enough activity. 

Adult silken windhounds need about 60 minutes of daily exercise to stay physically and mentally healthy. Golebiewski notes that regular walks are usually enough to keep them happy, though, as natural athletes, they also enjoy activities like hiking, agility exercises, obedience trials, rally, and lure coursing. Because they have a strong prey drive, they should always be exercised in a fenced area or on a leash. 

After an active outing, Golebiewski says most silkens are happy to settle in for a relaxing nap on the couch.

For mental stimulation, puzzle toys, scent work, and trick training can help keep them engaged. 

Grooming

Silken windhounds have a medium-to-long silky coat that requires minimal grooming. Their coat naturally repels dirt and doesn’t mat easily, making them lower maintenance than many long-haired breeds. Brushing your silken once a week will help prevent tangles and remove loose fur.

According to the ISWS, the amount that a silken sheds varies on the dog, but they do not blow their coats like other long-haired breeds, such as golden retrievers or borzois. They may shed more during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall.

Nail trimming (every two to three weeks), daily teeth brushing, ear cleaning, and occasional bathing (about once a month) are also essential to maintain their overall hygiene and health.

Training

Silken windhounds are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train using positive reinforcement. This entails rewarding good behavior with treats and praise, which helps reinforce desired actions. 

Training should start early, with basic commands and socialization beginning around eight weeks old. Puppy training classes, along with regular exposure to new people, environments, and experiences, will help them develop into confident, well-mannered adults. 

While a silken windhound’s prey drive can be strong, recall training can be improved with repetition and positive reinforcement, especially when introduced at a young age.

Common Health Problems

Silken windhounds are a remarkably healthy and long-lived breed, with many living into their mid to late teens—and some even reaching 20 years old! Careful and selective breeding has helped preserve the breed’s overall health.

While health issues in silken windhounds are generally rare, the most commonly seen conditions include:

• MDR1 sensitivity: A genetic mutation that makes them sensitive to certain medications. A simple DNA test can determine if a dog carries this gene.
• Cardiac issues: While uncommon, there have been reports of mitral valve disease, congenital heart abnormalities, and sudden cardiac events in some silkens. Regular veterinary checkups can help monitor heart health.
• Eye conditions: Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and other inherited eye disorders may occur in some silkens. Routine eye exams are recommended to catch any issues early.
• Autoimmune thyroiditis: An immune-related disorder that can lead to hypothyroidism. Regular thyroid function tests can help with early detection and management.

Diet and Nutrition

Like all dogs, silken windhounds thrive on a high-quality, well-balanced diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level. Their diet can consist of kibble, fresh or raw dog food, or a mix of both. Golebiewski recommends choosing a food that meets AAFCO standards for their appropriate life stage. Most adult silkens do best with two meals daily, but puppies may require three to four smaller meals as they grow. 

Golebiewski notes that as a dolichocephalic (long-nosed) breed, silken windhounds produce less saliva and slobber than some other dogs, which can make them more prone to dental issues. To help maintain their oral health, she recommends regular teeth brushing and incorporating dental chews.

Where to Buy or Adopt a Silken Windhound

Silken windhounds are a relatively rare breed, so they’re not commonly found in shelters or rescues. However, it doesn’t hurt to check adoption sites like Adopt a Pet, as silken windhounds may occasionally be available for adoption in your area. You can also check in with Silken Windhound Health and Rescue. 

Reputable silken windhound breeders typically produce only one or two litters yearly, so finding an available puppy to purchase can take time. Staying in touch with breeders and joining breed-specific networks can improve your chances. 

Purchasing a silken windhound puppy generally costs $2,000 to $4,000, depending on factors like breeder reputation, lineage, and location. Before purchasing, always confirm that the breeder conducts health testing, provides early socialization, and adheres to ethical breeding practices.

For additional details about this breed and resources for finding a reputable breeder, check out:

Silken Windhound Overview

The silken windhound is a graceful, medium-sized sighthound admired for their friendly temperament, athleticism, and soft, flowing coat. This breed thrives in active households, balancing a love for play and activity with time for quiet relaxation at home.

Silken windhounds are intelligent, eager to please, and respond well to positive reinforcement training. They are generally a healthy and long-lived breed.

Pros of the Silken Windhound

• Known for being friendly, easygoing, and social
• Relatively free of major health issues, with many living into their late teens
• Love to run and play but are also content to lounge at home

Cons of the Silken Windhound

• Relatively rare dog breed, meaning longer waitlists for puppies and fewer adoption opportunities.
• May instinctively chase small animals, making them less suited for homes with small pets unless properly socialized.
• Instinct to chase can make recall training challenging, so they should only run freely in securely fenced areas.

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Not sure if a silken windhound is the right fit? Look into similar breeds, such as:

There’s a whole world of dog breeds out there—with some research, you can find the perfect match to bring home.