Every dog breed is unique. From lazy to energetic, there are plenty of types to choose from. Some breeds are fast runners, but did you know that some can reach incredible speeds, making them the fastest in the world?
Such breeds come in different sizes but share characteristics that make them incredibly agile, allowing them to achieve remarkable speeds. So, keep reading to learn more – you might even spot some familiar breeds on this list!
1. Greyhound
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Greyhounds are considered to be the fastest dog breed in the world, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour. Amazing, right?
Because of their incredible speed, Greyhounds are often used as racing dogs, but only for short stretches because they lack the stamina for long races.
They are known for their lean and sleek frames, with short fur that comes in a variety of colors. Most importantly, Greyhounds make excellent house pets, especially when properly socialized and trained.
2. Saluki
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The Saluki, one of the rarest dog breeds, ranks second among the fastest dog breeds, able to reach an impressive 43 miles per hour. Though slightly slower than the Greyhound, the Saluki has incredible stamina and can run 2 to 3 miles at top speed.
Salukis are characterized by their light, athletic bodies with deep chests and long legs. Their coats can be smooth or feathered and come in various colors, including white, cream, fawn, red, black, and tri-color.
These dogs can be wonderful pets, but they are best suited for quiet environments and don’t enjoy rough play.
3. Sloughi
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Often mistaken for the Saluki, the Sloughi shares a similar athletic build, allowing it to reach speeds up to 42 miles per hour.
In addition to their speed, Sloughis have strong hunting instincts and have been used as hunting and guard dogs throughout history. They are considered a shy breed and require proper training and socialization to make great family dogs.
4. Afghan Hound
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The Afghan Hound breed can often be seen on dog shows thanks to their gorgeous long, silky fur. But, not everyone knows that below this long fur is a highly athletic body, allowing these dogs to reach the speed of 40 miles per hour.
Afghan Hounds come in various colors, but their long hair requires high maintenance and grooming. They also need experienced trainers, as they can sometimes struggle with obedience.
5. Vizsla
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The Vizsla may not be the first breed that comes to mind when thinking of fast dogs, but these medium-sized sporting dogs can run up to 40 miles per hour.
Known for their defined muscles and shades of golden rust color, Vizslas are also highly affectionate. They make excellent hunting and guard dogs and are natural swimmers.
6. Ibizan Hound
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Like many members of the hound family, the Ibizan Hound is an agile dog that can reach serious speeds of even 40 miles per hour. Due to their incredible speed, they were often used as hunting dogs to hunt small game.
The breed is characterized by upright ears and agile bodies. Besides their physical traits, Ibizan Hounds are highly intelligent and have a loving nature.
7. Dalmatian
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Dalmatians are one of the most popular breeds, characterized by white coats covered in black or brown spots. But, what many people don’t know is that Dalmatians were originally raised as hunting dogs.
So, thanks to their agility and athletic bodies, they can reach the speed of 37 miles per hour. In addition to their speed, they make great family pets who get along well with children and other animals, especially when properly socialized.
8. Borzoi
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Not only is the Borzoi one of the tallest dog breeds, but it’s also one of the fastest, with speeds reaching up to 35 miles per hour.
Originally bred for hunting, Borzois are highly energetic and require plenty of exercise. Without enough activity, they can easily become bored, leading to behavioral issues.
9. Whippet
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Despite being smaller than most of the other breeds on this list, the Whippet is still considered one of the fastest dogs, capable of reaching 35 miles per hour.
Whippets are actually considered to be the fastest dogs in their weight class and are great for dog sports such as agility courses and similar. Besides that, they are extremely gentle and quiet, making perfect house dogs.
10. Rhodesian Ridgeback
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Originally bred to hunt lions in Africa, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can reach speeds of 30 mph. Their muscular bodies and high endurance make them both powerful and fast runners.
Whether they’re sprinting across a field or lounging at home (because they love their downtime too), Ridgebacks are the ultimate mix of speed, strength, and charm.
11. Jack Russell Terrier
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Another small but mighty dog, the Jack Russell can run at speeds of 30 mph. Their compact size and boundless energy make them surprisingly fast for their stature, earning the nickname “little rockets” among dog lovers.
12. Great Dane
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Despite their massive size and reputation as gentle giants, Great Danes are surprisingly fast and agile. These towering dogs, often standing over 30 inches tall at the shoulder, can reach speeds of up to 30 mph.
Their long, powerful legs and muscular build make them capable of quick bursts of speed, especially when chasing or playing. Originally bred for hunting large game like boar, their speed was an essential trait for catching swift prey.
While they may not have the endurance of smaller, more agile breeds, Great Danes are more than capable of sprinting across open spaces with grace and surprising velocity.
Their impressive speed, combined with their imposing size, makes them both awe-inspiring and formidable, whether as working dogs or loyal family companions. Watching a Great Dane run is a spectacle of sheer power and elegance, reminding us that size doesn’t always mean slow.
13. Pharaoh Hound
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The Pharaoh Hound is a sleek and graceful breed, renowned for its speed and agility. Capable of reaching speeds of up to 35 mph, these ancient dogs were bred for hunting in the deserts of Malta, where their speed and keen eyesight helped them excel as sighthounds.
With their slender build, long legs, and aerodynamic physique, Pharaoh Hounds can cover ground effortlessly, making them one of the fastest dogs in the canine world.
Their bursts of speed are not only impressive but also essential to their hunting instincts, allowing them to chase down small game with remarkable efficiency.
Known for their playful and spirited nature, Pharaoh Hounds love to run and thrive in environments where they have space to stretch their legs. Whether dashing across open fields or engaging in a high-energy game, their speed and agility are a testament to their athletic heritage and ancient lineage.