Do you know the fastest dog breeds in the world and how fast they can run?
The fastest dog breeds in the world are :
| Rank | Dog Name | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greyhound | 45 mph |
| 2 | Saluki | 42 mph |
| 3 | Afghan Hound | 40 mph |
| 4 | Ibizan Hound | 40 mph |
| 5 | Vizsla | 40 mph |
| 6 | Jack Russell Terrier | 38 mph |
| 7 | Dalmatian | 37 mph |
| 8 | Borzoi | 36 mph |
| 9 | Weimaraner | 35 mph |
| 10 | Scottish Deerhound | 35 mph |
| 11 | Whippet | 34 mph |
| 12 | Doberman Pinscher | 32 mph |
| 13 | Standard Poodle | 30 mph |
| 14 | Border Collie | 30 mph |
| 15 | Siberian Huskies | 30 mph |
| 16 | German Shepherd | 30 mph |
| 17 | Anatolian Shepherd | 28 mph |
| 18 | Giant Schnauzers | 28 mph |
| 19 | Italian Greyhound | 25 mph |
| 20 | Rhodesian Ridgeback | 20 mph |
Greyhound is the fastest dog in the world with a top speed of up to 45 mph.
Dogs can run faster than Humans. The fastest human running speed achieved by Usain Bolt in Berlin was 27.8 mph while the Greyhound dogs can run at speed of up to 45 mph.
Fastest dog breeds in the world
Let us look into the details now.
1) Greyhound
No surprises here! Greyhounds are the fastest dog breed in the world with their lean body and powerful legs.
They were originally bred for hunting foxes and hares in the middle east and North Africa. They are friendly and non-aggressive dogs and you should not trust them without a leash.
Greyhound’s aerodynamic body is perfect for speed. They are perfect for short sprints instead of running over large distances.
Coming from the hound family, they also have a prey drive. And they are not averse to strangers and will let you know about them with a bark. Though, they are loving and friendly with pleasing personalities.
These dogs can grow to a height of 30 inches and weigh approximately 80 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. They rank 145 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Greyhound can run at a top speed of up to 45 mph. This makes them by far the best racing or fastest dog breed in the world.
2) Saluki
Saluki is the second fastest dog breed. They were bred originally in Persia for speed, strength, and endurance as hunter dogs.
Saluki is the fastest dog over large distances as they can maintain faster speed at longer distances compared to Greyhounds.
They have a slim and smooth body covered in silky hair. You can identify them with their long floppy ears that hang down.
These dogs can grow to a height of 28 inches and weigh approximately 60 to 70 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 14 years and ranks 120 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Saluki can run at a top speed of 42 mph and definitely one of the top racing dog breeds.
3) Afghan Hound
Afghan hounds are the 3rd fastest dog in the world and are considered closely related to the Saluki dog breed that is next on this list.
As the name suggests, they were originally bred in Afghanistan as hunting dogs and were known as “Tazi”.
They are quite lean but the fur on them usually covers up the same. Due to this, they require considerable hours every week for grooming.
Afghan hounds are known for their thick, fine, silky coat and their tail which has a ring curl at the end. They are loyal to the family but are cautious of strangers.
You should socialize them since beginning to subvert their prey drive.
These dogs can grow to a height of 28 inches and weigh approximately 60 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 10 to 12 years and ranks 113 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Afghan hound can run at a top speed of 40 mph.
4) Ibizan Hound
Ibizan hound is a lean and agile dog from the hound family with an athletic and attractive outline. They were bred for chasing and catching prey like rabbits.
These dogs are rugged, well-boned, and popular for their large upright ears. They can jump as high as 5 feet and need daily exercise of at least 45 to 60 minutes.
They have a high prey drive. Due to this and their skills in jumping, they should be set off-leash with caution.
Ibizan hound, also known as breezer, can grow to a height of 27 inches and weigh approximately 50 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 10 to 14 years and ranked 152 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Ibizan hound can run at a top speed of 40 mph.
5) Vizsla
Vizsla is a medium-sized hunting dog originally bred in Hungary as a pointer or retriever. They thrive on human companionship and are known to stay very close to you.
Vizsla dogs are known for their sleek golden-rust coat. They have a lean, energetic, and muscular body and lower set ears.
Vizsla are active dogs who would need at least an hour of exercise. If you can spend time training them and can give them attention, they can become great family dogs.
These dogs can grow to a height of 24 inches and weigh approximately 65 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 10 to 14 years and ranks 31 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
The top speed of Vizsla is 40 mph.
6) Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog that is quite lively and energetic. It may be difficult for the new dog owners to keep up the pace as they need a lot of exercises. They were originally bred for the hunting of foxes.
Jack Russell Terrier is a big dog with a small body. They are fearless and can pick a fight with big dogs. If trained well, he can be a good family dog but be prepared for an hour-long exercise or playtime.
They would need a large yard with a high fence. Be cautious with them without the leash as they are escape artists.
These dogs can grow to a height of 15 inches and weigh approximately 17 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years and ranks 117 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Jack Russell Terrier can run at a top speed of 38 mph.
7) Dalmatian
Dalmation is one of the popular dog breeds and can easily be recognized for its spots. They are active dogs who need daily exercise or playtime else they can become bored and be destructive.
Dalmatians are known for their deep brown or black spots and are easily recognizable. They are medium-sized dogs with a slim, muscular build.
These dogs can grow to a height of 24 inches and weigh approximately 55 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. They rank 56 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Dalmation dogs can run at a top speed of up to 37 mph.
8) Borzoi
Borzoi or the Russian wolfhound is a hunting dog bred in Russia for hunting wolves. Its name means “fast” in the Russian Language. They are tall dogs with lean bodies and long slender legs.
Borzoi is characterized by their slightly domed skull, long muzzle, and silky hairs. They have dark eyes having a soft expression.
These dogs can grow to a height of 28 inches and weigh up to 105 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 10 to 12 years. They rank 103 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Borzoi can run up to a top speed of 36 mph.
9) Weimaraner
Weimaraner are large dogs originally bred for hunting in the early 19th century by royalty. They are also known as “Silver Ghosts” for their silver-gray shiny coat. They are medium-sized dogs with graceful, athletic, and muscular appearances.
A Weimaraner is a very smart dog who requires frequent exercise. Bred for hunting, they require obedience training to learn how to be calm and control their behavior. Early socialization is a must.
These dogs can grow to a height of 27 inches and weigh approximately 85 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 11 to 13 years. They rank 36 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Weimaraner can run up to a top speed of 35 mph.
10) Scottish Deerhound
Scottish Deerhound is a large breed of hound and was used to be bred for hunting by the nobility. They are also known as “Royal Dog of Scotland”. Though similar to a greyhound, Scottish Deerhound is larger and more heavily boned.
They have long slender legs and a characteristic wiry coat. They love to idle around in the house but can run when they feel an urge to catch something.
These dogs can grow to a height of 32 inches and weigh approximately 80 to 110 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 8 to 11 years. They rank 158 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Scottish Deerhound can run up to a top speed of 35 mph. They are still not the fastest dog in the world. 🙂
11) Whippet
Whippet is a medium-sized dog breed originally bred in England for hunting by sight. They descend from Greyhounds and look similar but smaller. They were bred for agility and running.
These dogs are just right for both sitting on your lap and running along with you as a running dog. They are idle and quiet when inside but they need the opportunity for playtime and running to vent out their energy.
These dogs can grow to a height of 22 inches and weigh approximately 25 to 40 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. They rank 61 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Whippet can run at a top speed of up to 34 mph. Still, they are not one of the top racing dog breeds.
12) Doberman Pinscher
Dobermann or Doberman Pinscher are well-built muscular dogs originally bred by a tax collector Louis Dobermann in Germany. They have lean, muscular, and powerful bodies.
They typically have a long muzzle, cropped and erect ears, and a docked tail. These dogs come in black, blue, red, or fawn color coats.
Comparatively more aggressive they are more popular as guard dogs. They are highly smart and energetic dogs. Experienced owners who can be the pack leader and have time to socialize and train can own them.
These dogs can grow to a height of 28 inches and weigh approximately 80 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 10 to 13 years. They rank 17 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Dobermann can run at a top speed of up to 32 mph.
13) Standard Poodle
Poodles are the second most intelligent dog breed after Border Collie. They have a compact, muscular, and athletic body.
Poodles have a unique hair coat style for which they are popular. It is dense and curly. They also have a light springy gait. They are hypoallergenic dogs and are suitable for dog allergic folks.
Poodles are an energetic, sociable, and highly trainable breed. They get bored easily and require both physical and intellectual activities.
These dogs can grow to a height of 22 inches and weigh approximately 70 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. They rank 7 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Poodles can run at a top speed of 30 mph.
14) Border Collie
Border collie originated between the hilly borders of Scotland and England and is known for herding the livestock with its intense eyes.
They are medium-sized dogs having long bodies. Their ears stand up and then fall over.
They are the smartest or most intelligent dog breed. They have a lot of energy and could be difficult for a new pet owner to cope up.
These dogs can grow to a height of 22 inches tall and weigh approximately 45 pounds. Their average lifespan is 12 to 15 years. They rank 35 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Border collie can run at a top speed of up to 30 mph.
15) Siberian Huskies
Siberian husky has wolf-like features with piercing blue eyes. They originally hail from Siberia. They are considered more of a family dog than a guard dog.
Huskies have a compact and powerful body. They have erect ears and a furry tail. They require a lot of maintenance as they shed a lot of hair and also require a lot of exercise so should be avoided by first-time pet owners.
Huskies can grow to a height of 23 inches and weigh approximately 60 pounds. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 15 years. They rank 14 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Siberian husky can run at a top speed of 30 mph. Still, they are not even near the fastest dog in the world.
16) German Shepherd
German Shepherd is the second most popular dog in the United States after Labrador. They were bred originally for herding sheep.
But because of their strength, intelligence, loyalty, and obedience, they have become very popular with the dog owners and are a common sight with Police and Military forces as well.
German Shepherd dogs have a large head, long muzzle with large erect ears, and bushy tail. They have a strong, agile, and well-muscled body. They have a double coat and shed a lot.
These dogs can grow to a height of 26 inches and weigh approximately 75 to 95 pounds. Their average lifespan is 10 to 14 years. They rank 2 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
German Shepherd dogs can run at a top speed of up to 30 mph.
17) Anatolian Shepherd
Anatolian Shepherd is an old breed that originated in the Anatolian region of Turkey. It is a large and strong dog. They were bred for protecting the livestock from predators. It has V-shaped ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a long curly tail.
They may look intimidating and can be aggressive if not trained well. They are known for being stubborn and with their large size, we would certainly not recommend them to newbie owners.
These dogs can grow to a height of 29 inches and weigh approximately 150 pounds. Their average lifespan is 11 to 13 years. They rank 90 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Anatolian Shepherd can run at a top speed of up to 28 mph.
18) Giant Schnauzers
Giant Schnauzers were originally bred in the German state of Bavaria in the 17th century. Though they are termed as Giant but have less built-in size as compared to large breeds like Great Dane.
They have a large dominant appearance having a strong, muscular, and squarish body.
These dogs are energetic, intelligent, and independent thinkers. First-time dog owners are not suitable for these dogs.
They can grow to a height of 27 inches and weigh approximately 80 pounds. Their average lifespan is 10 to 12 years. They rank 78 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
Giant Schnauzers can run at a speed of up to 28 mph.
19) Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhound is a short dog. They were bred for at least two millennia especially in and around modern-day Italy & Turkey. Italian Greyhound or IG are the smallest dogs in the sighthound dog breeds.
Italian greyhounds look very similar to Greyhounds albeit shorter in size. They have a small muscular body and a high stepping gait. They are smart, alert, and sensitive dogs.
Italian Greyhound can grow to a height of 15 inches and weigh approximately 14 pounds. Their average lifespan is 15 years. They rank 73 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
The top speed for Italian Greyhound is 25 mph.
20) Rhodesian Ridgeback
Rhodesian Ridgeback is an athletic and muscular dog breed that was originally bred in the 16th century by European settlers in South Africa. They are also known as African Lion hounds as a pack of 4 to 6 dogs were used to hunt lions.
Unique Feature – They are named Ridgeback due to a distinct ridge along their back. This is formed on the back of the spine due to hair growth in the opposite direction.
Rhodesian Ridgeback has a strong muscular body. The color of the coat varies from light wheaten to red wheaten. They were used in gameplays to corner big animals like lions and boars. These dogs are athletic and quite intelligent but can be obstinate at times.
These are large dogs who can grow to a height of 27 inches and weigh approximately 70 to 85 pounds. Their average lifespan is 10 to 12 years. They rank 41 out of 195 in popularity ranking by AKC.
The top speed for Rhodesian Ridgeback is up to 20 mph.
Summary
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A quick recap..
FAQs
Greyhounds are the fastest dog in the world. They can run at a top speed of 45 mph.
Greyhound, Saluki, Afghan Hound, Ibizan Hound, and Vizsla are popular dog racing breeds that can run at a top speed of 40 mph and more.
Dogs were bred as sighthounds. Their lean and strong muscular body helps them to run quite fast.
Like!! Thank you for publishing this awesome article.
You may want to re evaluate your top speeds for Ridgebacks…my boy run consistently at 25 mph and his top so far is 29.77 mph. Bitches tend to run faster. We did a Fast CAT event using the same equipment all of his runs.
Same mine could run over 35 in her prime