+ MEET THE BREED
Windsprite A beautiful and petite sighthound by SAMANTHA ST.CLAIR
INDSPRITES ARE A SMALLER SIGHTHOUND breed known for intelligence, speed, and a love for their family. Their name sounds like something out of a fairytale, and they are indeed magical little dogs. Enchanting, elegant, and gorgeous, those graced by a Windsprite believe there is hardly a flaw in the breed.
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Windsprites were developed in the 1960s by a breeder in Massachusetts, and are likely the result of mixing whippets with shelties. Originally called longhaired whippets, they were renamed after the kennel that developed them. While the AKC does not recognize them yet, they have been breeding true for many decades, and are registerable under the International Windsprite Club. Over 1000 Windsprites have been registered in the United States with the IWC. The breed is currently recognized by three national kennel clubs in Europe, with more registered internationally with other Windsprite clubs. Windsprites rarely look away from their owners, unless they see something interesting to chase. These sweet companions ranging in weight from around 20-35 pounds are incredibly versatile dogs who love to have fun with their family. From agility, to lure coursing, flyball, hiking, dock diving, nose work, and obedience, Windsprites are ready to partake in any activity. There is nothing quite like watching these hounds run, so participating in fastpaced sports with them is mesmerizing. The breed is adaptable to living in apartments or countrysides, and while they benefit from exercise, they are also content to cuddle on the couch and watch TV.
THE IWC MID ATLANTIC SPECIALTY SHOW IS HELD IN NOTTINGHAM, PA.
M The information in this article was provided by Sidney Hoblit and the
International Windsprite Club. Visit internationalwindspriteclub.org to learn more and connect with Windsprite enthusiasts today!
28 LANCASTER COUNTY PET
The breed is a healthy breed when bred by those who are aware of genetic conditions present in them. Collie eye anomaly (CEA) and multidrug resistance mutation (MDR1) are possible but very rare as genetic testing can easily prevent litters from being affected. Well-bred Windsprites can live 15 or more years with only common old dog ailments affecting them. They are smart and very quick to learn, and love to show off. But while they are fun to train, they tend to be soft dogs and do not respond well to harsh corrections or multiple repetitions, so it's essential to take it easy when working with these sensitive canines. Positive training methods are required, as even a simple scolding can upset some of them. If you have small pets in your home, you will want to work with your Windsprite from day one to train them not to chase your cat or pocket pet. These friendly dogs are wonderful family companions who are pleased to be their guardian's shadow. They are loyal and regal hounds that can excel in sports one moment, and lounge with their favorite person the next. With gentle guidance, these dogs will do anything for their people and are the “best-kept secret” in dogs.