20 Fastest Dog Breeds

Height: 27-30 inches (68-76 cm)

Weight: 60-70 pounds (27-32 kg)

Top Speed: 45 mph (72 kph)

The Greyhound's physique plays a crucial role in making it the fastest dog breed. These dogs possess a lean and slender body with a deep chest and a narrow waist. This design allows for maximum lung capacity and efficient oxygen intake.

Meanwhile, the deep chest also accommodates a large heart and strong muscles, which further enhance their speed and stamina. Likewise, this breed has long and powerful legs. These hound dogs' long legs allow for a larger stride length. This efficient use of energy contributes to their remarkable speed.

Height: 23-28 inches (58-71 cm)

Weight: 40-65 pounds (18-29 kg)

Top Speed: 42 mph (68 kph)

The Saluki, due to its exceptional speed and endurance, is often called the "Gazelle Hound" or "Persian Greyhound." These canines have an aerodynamic build with long legs and a deep chest, which allows them to cover ground quickly. Moreover, their lightweight frame helps them maintain their speed over long distances.

It is important to note that not all of these skinny dogs are equally fast, as individual variations exist within the breed. Factors such as genetics, training, and overall health can influence a Saluki's speed.

Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)

Weight: 25-40 pounds (11-18 kg)

Top Speed: 40 mph (64 kph)

The Whippet's body structure plays a crucial role in its ability to achieve high speeds. Firstly, they have a lean and muscular body with a narrow waist. This shape allows for efficient movement and reduces air resistance, enabling the dog to achieve greater speed.

Moreover, the Whippet has powerful hind limbs, which generate significant propulsion force. These limbs have a flexible structure, enabling the breed to push off the ground with great speed. Additionally, their long and slender tail acts as a counterbalance to maintain stability.

Height: 21-24 inches (53-61 cm)

Weight: 45-65 pounds (20-29 kg)

Top Speed: 40 mph (64 kph)

The Vizsla has a high level of endurance, which enables the dog to maintain speed for a long time. This breed was originally developed in Hungary for hunting purposes, specifically for pointing and retrieving game.

Furthermore, Vizslas are highly energetic and require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Their drive to move quickly makes them ideal for various dog sports. Likewise, their ability to accelerate and change direction swiftly contributes to their reputation as one of the fastest breeds.

Height: 25-27 inches (64-69 cm)

Weight: 50-60 pounds (23-27 kg)

Top Speed: 40 mph (64 kph)

The Afghan Hound is undeniably a stunningly beautiful dog, with its flowing coat and glamorous appearance. However, this breed is much more than just a pretty face.

Considered one of the most expensive breeds, the Afghan Hound is built for speed. They have a unique running style known as "double suspension gallop," where all four feet are off the ground simultaneously during each stride. This allows them to reach impressive speeds, often clocking in at around 40 miles per hour (64 km/h).

Height: 19-24 inches (48-61 cm)

Weight: 45-70 pounds (20-32 kg)

Top Speed: 37 mph (60 kph)

The Dalmatian dog has a rich history that dates back centuries. Originating in the region of Dalmatia (modern-day Croatia), it was bred for various purposes throughout its history.

One of its earliest documented roles was as a carriage dog, accompanying horse-drawn carriages and acting as a guard dog. These dogs also found purpose in firehouses, where they became known as firehouse mascots and fire dogs. They were particularly useful in guiding and calming horses that pulled fire engines during the 18th and 19th centuries.

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Height: 26-28 inches (66-71 cm)

Weight: 60-105 pounds (27-48 kg)

Top Speed: 36 mph (58 kph)

The Borzoi, also called the Russian wolfhound, possesses a remarkable ability for high-speed running. Their physical structure allows for efficient movement and stride extension, maximizing speed and agility.

Moreover, the breed has a flexible and powerful spine, enabling a wide range of motion while running. This flexibility aids in maintaining balance and coordination during high-speed pursuits. Additionally, the Borzoi possesses long legs, which further contribute to its stride length and overall speed.

Height: 23-27 inches (58-69 cm)

Weight: 55-90 pounds (25-41 kg)

Top Speed: 35 mph (56 kph)

The Weimaraner is a breed known for its unique appearance and service as police dogs. It is a large, athletic dog with a well-muscled and balanced body. These doggos have a distinctive sleek, short coat that is usually silver-gray, but can also be blue-gray or mouse-gray.

Weimaraners have a noble appearance consisting of a moderately long and chiseled head. Their eyes are amber, blue-gray, or gray in color, giving them a distinctive and intelligent expression. Also, they have long, droopy ears that hang close to their head.

Height: 24-28 inches (61-71 cm)

Weight: 60-100 pounds (27-45 kg)

Top Speed: 32 mph (51 kph)

The Doberman Pinscher is a highly muscular breed known for its speed and agility. On average, a healthy Doberman can run at a speed of around 32-35 miles per hour (51-56 km per hour).

Several factors can influence a Doberman's top speed, including its age, overall fitness level, and genetics. Younger and more active dogs are generally faster than older or less active ones. Additionally, their body structure plays a role in their speed as their long legs and lean build are well-suited for swift movements.

Height: 18-22 inches (46-56 cm)

Weight: 30-55 pounds (14-25 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Border Collie, regarded as one of the smartest breeds, possesses remarkable qualities that make it exceptional. With a strong work ethic and an unparalleled ability to learn, this breed thrives on mental stimulation and challenging tasks.

Their high level of intelligence enables them to quickly grasp commands and learn new tricks. They also have a natural instinct to herd and are capable of swiftly controlling livestock. This breed's energy and drive are unmatched, allowing them to excel in activities such as flyball, agility, and obedience trials.

Height: 22-26 inches (56-66 cm)

Weight: 55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Belgian Malinois is a remarkable dog breed native to Belgium. These pups are known for their exceptional intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and excel in various tasks, making them popular choices for police, military, and search and rescue work.

Additionally, the Belgian Malinois is highly energetic and has incredible endurance. They possess a strong work drive and thrive on physical activity. This makes them excellent companions for active individuals or families who enjoy outdoor adventures.

Height: 22-26 inches (56-66 cm)

Weight: 50-90 pounds (23-41 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The German Shepherd excels in running on open and moderately rugged terrains. These dogs have a powerful and agile build, allowing them to navigate different landscapes with ease.

This German breed is particularly effective in running on uneven or hilly terrains. Their strong hindquarters and flexible bodies enable them to maintain balance and stride efficiently, even on challenging surfaces. Whether it's running on trails, fields, or mountains, their physical attributes make them well-suited for these terrains.

Height: 21-25 inches (53-64 cm)

Weight: 50-80 pounds (23-36 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Boxer is an exceptional running dog, thanks to its muscular and athletic build. Their strong legs and well-developed chests provide the power and endurance required for long-distance running. Additionally, Boxers can run for a relatively long time due to their high energy levels.

Furthermore, the breed's strong cardiovascular system enables them to have efficient oxygen intake and blood circulation during physical activities. This allows them to maintain a sustained pace while running, without getting easily exhausted.

Height: 22-26 inches (56-66 cm)

Weight: 55-75 pounds (25-34 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Belgian Tervuren is a herding dog originally bred for working long hours in the fields. So, the breed has developed strong muscles and a strong build that allows it to cover long distances with ease.

The Tervuren's efficient running ability can be attributed to its balanced structure and powerful hindquarters. Its medium-sized body and lightweight frame further enable it to maintain a consistent pace without getting easily fatigued. Additionally, its long legs contribute to its swift movement, allowing it to navigate different terrains smoothly.

Height: 30-32 inches (76-81 cm)

Weight: 105-180 pounds (48-82 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Irish Wolfhound was originally bred in Ireland for hunting and guarding. Its primary function was to bring down wolves, boars, and other large game. The breed's impressive size and speed made it a formidable opponent for these animals.

When it comes to running, the Wolfhound is indeed an effective runner. Despite its large build, it possesses remarkable speed. It has a long and powerful stride, allowing it to cover a significant amount of ground. This makes it well-suited for activities such as lure coursing, which involves chasing a mechanically operated lure.

Height: 24-27 inches (61-69 cm)

Weight: 70-85 pounds (32-39 kg)

Top Speed: 30 mph (48 kph)

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is renowned for its distinctive ridge of hair that runs along its back, opposite to the rest of its coat. This ridge is formed by a strip of hair that grows in the opposite direction, giving the breed its unique appearance.

Moreover, Ridgebacks are exceptional athletes. They are built for endurance and speed, with a long stride. This breed is known for its remarkable agility and ability to navigate various terrains with ease. It has a great amount of stamina and a natural instinct for hunting and chasing. Their running abilities enable them to track and chase down prey effectively.

Height: 16-17 inches (41-43 cm)

Weight: 22-24 pounds (10-11 kg)

Top Speed: 29 mph (47 kph)

One distinctive feature of the Basenji is its head, which is finely chiseled and proportionate to its body. These dogs have wrinkled foreheads and expressive eyes that display intelligence. Likewise, the ears are set high, giving the dog a curious expression.

The Basenji is known for its elegant gait. Its body is well-muscled, with a level topline and a deep chest. The tail is set high and curls over the back. This breed has a short coat that comes in various colors, including red, black, brindle, and tricolor.

Height: 18-23 inches (46-58 cm)

Weight: 40-65 pounds (18-29 kg)

Top Speed: 28 mph (45 kph)

The Australian Shepherd is adored for its exceptional agility and speed. Although its speed may vary depending on factors such as age, fitness level, and individual characteristics, these canines are generally considered speedy dogs.

However, they are not the fastest dogs compared to sighthounds like Greyhounds or Salukis. However, Australian Shepherds have incredible acceleration, allowing them to quickly change direction and easily navigate obstacles. Their speed and agility make them excellent herding dogs, as they can swiftly maneuver and control livestock.

Height: 20-24 inches (51-61 cm)

Weight: 35-60 pounds (16-27 kg)

Top Speed: 28 mph (45 kph)

The Siberian Husky's body is specifically designed to help it run fast and efficiently. Its physique contributes to its exceptional speed. Firstly, the breed has a lean and muscular build, with a lightweight frame. This allows for swift movements and reduced energy expenditure while running.

Moreover, their deep chest and well-developed lungs provide them with an efficient respiratory system. This helps the Husky to take in more oxygen during intense exercise.

Height: 22-26 inches (56-66 cm)

Weight: 75-100 pounds (34-45 kg)

Top Speed: 27 mph (43 kph)

The Alaskan Malamute is an effective runner due to its impressive strength and natural instinct for pulling. Originally developed for sled pulling and transportation purposes, these fluffy dogs possess the necessary physical attributes to excel in running activities.

The Alaskan Malamute's strong body allows it to cover long distances at a sustained pace. Moreover, their strong shoulders and deep chests provide them with the ability to endure physically demanding tasks for extended periods. These attributes make them well-suited for activities such as canicross, skijoring, and bikejoring.