Key Highlights
- Find out about the fastest dog breeds in the world. They are known for their speed and quick movements.
- The Greyhound is the top speed dog. The Whippet is very fast, and the Saluki is strong and durable. Each of these dogs has unique features.
- You can learn about their history, behavior, and how much exercise they need. This will help you pick the right fast dog for your life.
- Some factors affect how fast a dog can run. These include their breed, genetics, and body types.
- Get answers to common questions about fast dog breeds and how to exercise them safely.
Have you ever thought about which dog breed is the fastest? In the animal world, dogs show a variety of speeds. Some dog breeds are famous for their amazing quickness. These fast dogs usually have a special mix of genes, strong muscles, and a natural urge to run. Let’s look at the fastest dog breeds together.
12 Fastest Dog Breeds Known for Their Incredible Speed
From the smooth Greyhound to the quick Whippet, there are some really fast dog breeds. These speedy dogs have a background in hunting or racing, and it’s amazing to see them run. Their speed is not the only thing that makes them special. Many of these breeds are smart, loyal, and can be great pets for the right people.
These speeds are based on the AVERAGE of the top 10 fastest scores for each breed in the AKC Fast Cat competition.
Here are 12 of the fastest dog breeds that are famous for their amazing speed:
1. Greyhound – The Speed King – 38.49 MPH Average
Reaching an amazing average top speed of 38.49 mph, the Greyhound is the fastest dog breed. This breed has a long history, connected to royalty in Egypt. They later became famous in dog racing. Their body shape shows why they are so fast. They have a smooth, sleek form built for quick speed bursts.
Even though Greyhounds are great athletes, they are also very calm. They enjoy a few daily walks and love to sprint at places like a dog park or in a safe yard. If you want a dog that likes to relax and run, a Greyhound could be the perfect fit for you!
2. Whippet – Agile Athletes – 38.24 MPH Average
The Whippet closely follows the Greyhound in speed, reaching about 38.24 mph. Often called the “smaller Greyhound,” they look similar to Greyhounds because they come from the same family of racing dogs. Whippets are famous for their speed and also their agility.
Besides being athletic, Whippets are gentle and loving, making them great family pets. Like Greyhounds, they like to relax and cuddle. They show a calm attitude when not running.
3. Borzoi – Russian Racers – 34.60 MPH Average
The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, originates from Russia. This dog breed is fast, reaching a top average speed of 34.60 mph. They were originally bred to hunt wolves. Their long and slender bodies, along with strong legs, help them run quickly.
Even though they have a hunting background, Borzois are calm and gentle dogs. They can be playful and loving with their families. However, it is important to socialize them early, as they may be shy around new people. Interestingly, while they enjoy running, Borzois are also happy with a little exercise.
4. Saluki – Graceful Speedsters – 32.33 MPH Average
Salukis are known for being quick and graceful. Their average top speed is 32.33 mph, which makes them the 4th fastest breed on this list. These elegant hounds come from the Middle East and are built for speed with their long strides. Their deep chests and athletic build help them sprint very fast. In ancient times, this was great for hunting. Salukis need a lot of exercise because they have high stamina. This royal dog breed is not only good at sprinting but is also an endurance athlete. They make a great addition to any active family.
5. Belgian Malinois – Police Power – 32.25 MPH Average
Belgian Malinois are known for their strong work ethic and smart minds. They are often used as police and military dogs. Their skills go beyond just being smart; they are very fast, reaching a top average speed of about 32.25 mph. This breed has an athletic build and a strong focus, which helps them do well in many tasks. These tasks include agility courses and search and rescue missions.
Belgian Malinois do best when they have a job to do. They have a lot of energy and need an owner who can keep them mentally and physically active. If they don’t get enough activities, they may become bored and might cause damage.
6. German Shepherd Dog – Classic Speed – 31.11 MPH Average
The German Shepherd Dog is a well-known symbol of smartness and loyalty in dogs. They are also fast, averaging 31.11 mph. You often see these dogs in police work, military jobs, and dog sports. Their strong desire to work and high intelligence makes them easy to train and able to do many different tasks.
German Shepherds need a lot of activity every day. Daily walks or runs are important, along with time for play and training. Keeping them active helps them stay happy and well-behaved. A tired German Shepherd is a joyful one!
7. Border Collie – Intelligent Speed – 31.10 Average
Border Collies exhibit a unique blend of intelligence and speed, making them stand out among the fastest dog breeds. Renowned for their agility and quick thinking, Border Collies excel in dog sports and activities that require both mental acuity and physical swiftness. With their keen herding instincts and high energy levels, they are not only swift runners but also possess the intellect to strategize their movements effectively. Border Collies are a prime example of how intelligence complements speed in the world of dog breeds.
8. Afghan Hound – Elegance in Motion – 30.92 Average
Afghan Hounds are known for their long, flowing coats and graceful movements. They look fancy, but don’t be misled. These dogs can run really fast, with an average top speed of up to 30.92 MPH. They come from Afghanistan and were used as hunting dogs. They relied on their speed and sight to catch prey in the mountains.
Besides being fast, Afghan Hounds are independent and can seem distant. They are loving with their families but often shy around new people. Their stunning coats need regular grooming to keep them from getting tangled and matted.
9. Boxer Dog – Powerful and Fast – 30.42 MPH Average
Boxer Dogs are fun and friendly. They are well-known for their “boxing” moves. Many families like them because of their playful nature. However, they are also strong and athletic. These dogs have an average top speed of 30.42 mph. Their muscle and energy make them great for active families or individuals who can help them stay fit.
Boxers are usually good with kids and have a lot of patience. It is important to socialize them early. This helps them feel at ease around other people and pets. Since they have short noses, it’s good to avoid hard exercise in hot or humid weather. They can easily get too warm.
10. Rhodesian Ridgeback – Powerful Velocity – 30.34 MPH Average
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is easy to recognize. It has a unique “ridge” of hair on its back. This breed is strong and active, coming from Southern Africa. They were originally bred to hunt lions, showing off their great strength and stamina. These dogs can run at an average top speed of 30.34 mph. They have a strong instinct to chase prey and need an owner who can manage their independent side.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are smart and can learn different commands, but they can also be a bit stubborn. To make sure they become well-behaved pets, these dogs need steady training and socializing from a young age. When trained correctly, they are loyal and protective family dogs.
11. Labrador Retriever – Family Fast – 30.31 MPH Average
Labrador Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds. They are known for being friendly and smart. Did you know these dogs can run really fast? They can average a top speed of about 30.31 mph. They have a history of retrieving and use their speed to fetch waterfowl.
These dogs love their food, which can sometimes lead to overeating and obesity. It is important to give them plenty of exercise. Daily walks, runs, or swims are great for keeping them healthy and happy. With their high energy and desire to please, they are amazing companions for active people or families.
12. Dalmatian – Spotted Speed – 30.17 MPH Average
Dalmatians are easy to recognize because of their unique spotted coats. They are an energetic breed with a special link to firehouses. These dogs can run at an average top speed of 30.17 mph. They also have good endurance. Before, they served as coaching dogs. They would run alongside horse-drawn carriages, showing off their stamina and athletic skills.
Dalmatians are smart and want to please their owners. However, they need a lot of exercise and mental activities to be happy. They love to run, play fetch, and take part in dog sports. If they do not have enough ways to use their energy, they may get bored. This boredom can lead to some behavior problems.
FAQ’s-12 Fastest Dog Breeds
What determines a dog’s speed?
A dog’s speed depends on many factors. These include its breed, genetics, muscle makeup, energy, and stamina. For instance, dogs with long legs and slim bodies usually run faster than those with shorter legs.
How can you safely exercise a fast dog breed?
Exercising a fast dog breed needs a safe place. This could be a fenced yard or a dog park. In these areas, the dog can run without worry about traffic or dangers. Daily walks and playtime are very important. They help meet the exercise needs of the dog and keep it mentally active.
Are certain dog breeds faster due to their size?
Larger dog breeds may seem faster because they have longer legs and bigger steps. However, size is not the only thing that matters. Small and medium-sized dogs can be very quick too. A dog’s speed depends on many factors like body shape, weight, and agility, not just how big it is.
12 Fastest Dog Breeds-Final Thoughts
The fastest dog breeds show amazing speed and agility. If you want a friend for running or just want to enjoy their quickness, these breeds have a mix of fitness and grace. Knowing what these dogs can do helps you give them the right exercise and care for their needs. If you think about bringing a fast dog breed into your home, be ready for a lively and energetic friend who will keep you active. Enjoy the fun of having a fast and spirited dog as you both explore the world at a speed that fits their need for speed.
