Sighthounds

On this page, you’ll find all blog articles from Rapid Dog Wear, ranging from practical tips to in-depth information about Sighthounds and more. We will explore topics such as Sighthound muzzles, collars, behaviour, and health. We also regularly share behind-the-scenes insights, donation updates, and stories from the Sighthound community. Whether you have a Galgo Español, Greyhound, Saluki, Podenco or any other Sighthound, this is the place to find information, inspiration, and helpful tips.

Blog, Lurcher

What Is a Lurcher?

Posted by
0

A Lurcher is a crossbreed between a sighthound (such as a Greyhound, Saluki, or Whippet) and a working dog (such as a Shepherd or Collie). These versatile dogs are especially popular in the United Kingdom.

Origin

Lurchers originated in England, where Greyhounds were traditionally owned by the upper class and used for hunting. Only people with sufficient wealth or land were legally allowed to hunt with purebred sighthounds.

As a result, people from lower social classes began crossing sighthounds with other breeds. This led to the creation of the Lurcher: a fast, efficient hunting dog used by common people and poachers to catch food, such as rabbits and hares.

Over time, hunters discovered that certain crosses produced even better hunting dogs, combining speed with intelligence and endurance. Because these dogs had to be kept hidden from authorities, they were often kept indoors, eventually becoming both working dogs and family companions.

Common Lurcher Crosses

Lurchers can vary widely in appearance and ability, depending on the breeds used. Common crosses include: Greyhounds Whippets, Salukis, Deerhounds or Irish Wolfhounds mixed with Border Collies, Bedlington Terriers or Bull Terriers.

These combinations are bred to create dogs with speed, stamina, courage, and a strong work ethic. In the UK, Lurchers have traditionally been used for hunting rabbits, hares, foxes, and even rats. Today many Lurchers, especially Whippet and Border Collie mixes, excel in dog sports such as agility and flyball.

Temperament

The temperament of a Lurcher is often similar to that of a sighthound: calm, gentle, and affectionate. They typically form a strong bond with their owner and enjoy being close to their family without being overly demanding. Indoors, they are usually relaxed and quiet, while outdoors they can be energetic and full of enthusiasm, especially when given the opportunity to run.
Lurchers are intelligent and generally easy to train, although they can show an independent streak depending on their lineage. Many have a strong prey drive, which means they may instinctively chase small animals. At the same time, they are sensitive dogs that respond best to a calm and positive approach, as they can be affected by tone of voice and the overall atmosphere at home.
Their personality can vary depending on the breeds involved in the cross, but many Lurchers combine the laid-back nature of a sighthound with the focus and work ethic of a herding or working breed. This often results in a loyal, adaptable companion with both a playful and occasionally clownish side.

Behaviour, Blog, Muzzles, Sighthounds

Why do sighthounds wear a muzzle?

Posted by

A common question is: why do sighthounds wear a muzzle? Are they aggressive? There’s often a stigma around the use of muzzles, but in reality, they are a practical and responsible tool used for many different reasons.

There are several situations where a sighthound may wear a muzzle, for example:

  • If your dog tends to eat dirt or unwanted items during walks
  • During a veterinary visit, so the vet can safely examine the dog
  • To prevent your dog from licking or biting a wound
  • To stop your dog from catching prey while outdoors
  • If your dog plays too roughly with others
  • While traveling, as muzzles are required by law in some countries

A standard muzzle usually doesn’t fit a sighthound properly due to their unique head shape. That’s why we offer specially designed sighthound muzzles that provide a secure and comfortable fit.

These muzzles are designed with your dog’s comfort in mind. They allow enough space for proper breathing, and your dog can still pant, drink, and even take treats while wearing one.

It’s very important to gradually train your dog to wear a muzzle. With the right introduction, your dog will learn that wearing a muzzle is a positive experience.

Browse our full collection of sighthound muzzles in our online store

Blog, Silken Windsprite

Silken Windsprite

Posted by
0

Silken Windsprite: elegant sighthound with a soft, flowing coat

The Silken Windsprite is a relatively rare dog breed that is gaining popularity among sighthound lovers. Its name says it all: “silken” refers to the soft, silky coat, while “windsprite” reflects its light, graceful movement. If you love breeds like the Whippet or Greyhound but want something a little different in appearance and coat, the Silken Windsprite is a truly unique choice.

Appearance: elegance with a soft twist

The Silken Windsprite has the classic sighthound build: a slim, athletic body, deep chest, long legs, and a refined, narrow head with a gentle expression. What truly sets this breed apart is its long, silky coat. Unlike short-haired sighthounds, the Silken features a soft, flowing coat that is often slightly wavy. Feathering is especially visible on the ears, tail, and backs of the legs.

In terms of size, the Silken Windsprite is very similar to a Whippet: medium-sized, lightweight, and built for speed and agility.

Silken Windsprite vs Whippet: key differences

The Whippet is the most common comparison. While they may look similar at first glance, there are some clear differences.

1. Coat
The Whippet has a short, smooth, and very low-maintenance coat. The Silken Windsprite, on the other hand, has a semi-long to long coat that is soft and silky, requiring slightly more care.

2. Origin
The Whippet is an established and recognized breed with a long history in hunting and racing. The Silken Windsprite is a newer breed, developed in the United States by crossing Whippets with Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties). Genetic research also shows influences from the Borzoi.

3: Remperament
The Silken Windsprite is known for its gentle and friendly nature. Like many sighthounds, it is not dominant or harsh but rather sensitive and people-oriented.

Key personality traits:

  • Calm and easygoing
  • Affectionate and loyal
  • Social, often good with other dogs
  • Intelligent, sometimes independent
  • Sensitive to tone of voice and household atmosphere
  • Energetic outdoors

They typically form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy following them around the house, without being overly demanding. Silken Windsprites also excel in activities such as agility, lure coursing, and even as therapy or assistance dogs.

Exercise and energy: a true sighthound

Despite their soft appearance, Silken Windsprites are real athletes. They have a strong prey drive, need daily opportunities to sprint, and enjoy long walks. Like many sighthounds, they combine a calm indoor nature with explosive speed outdoors.

Health

Silken Windsprites are generally healthy dogs. In the past, conditions such as Collie Eye Anomaly (CEA) and Multi-Drug Sensitivity (MDR1) were present within the breed. Thanks to responsible breeding practices, affected dogs are now rare, although some carriers still exist.

Immune-related issues, including allergies and inflammatory bowel conditions, can occur. A small number of dogs have been diagnosed with Addison’s disease or exercise-induced hypothermia, and research into these conditions is ongoing.

Grooming and care

Although their coat requires slightly more maintenance than that of short-haired sighthounds, grooming is still relatively easy. Regular brushing helps keep the coat clean and tangle-free.
Like other sighthounds, Silken Windsprites have low body fat, making them sensitive to cold weather. This is why proper sighthound clothing, such as warm coats and sweaters, is essential during colder months.
Additionally, their unique body shape means they often need specially designed gear, such as sighthound collars, sightweight harnesses or properly fitted muzzles. Choosing the right sighthound clothing and accessories ensures comfort, safety, and freedom of movement for your Silken Windsprite.

Discover the articles by category below.