Over the last few centuries, certain types of dogs have been bred for hunting and racing purposes. But many of these speedy breeds make great pets as well! Are you looking for an active, energetic canine who loves to run? Then, consider one of these super fast pups.
From little guys to big, check out this list of 10 of the fastest dog breeds. Dust off your running shoes.
Key takeaways
- Fast dog breeds like the greyhound, saluki and Afghan hound were originally bred for hunting and racing, but many also have calm, affectionate sides that make them great family pets. They typically need space to run and thrive best with active owners who can meet their exercise needs.
- Mid- to large-sized breeds like the vizsla, German shepherd, Dalmatian and borzoi combine speed with intelligence, loyalty and endurance. These dogs do especially well in homes that offer regular physical activity and room to move.
- Even smaller or more laid-back options like the whippet, Scottish deerhound and Jack Russell terrier bring a mix of speed, playfulness and companionship. No matter the size, fast dogs are happiest when they can balance bursts of running with time to relax at home.
1. Greyhound
Greyhounds make up the fastest dog breed in the world. In fact, according to the Minnesota chapter of Greyhound Pets of America, these canines can run up to 45 miles per hour! Though greyhounds love to sprint, they’re actually quite calm when they’re at home. This gentle giant can make the perfect pet for an active family with older, more mellow kids.
2. Saluki
This medium-sized dog was bred in the Middle East for chasing fast prey. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), salukis are very active, so it’s best if they live somewhere that has a large, fenced-in area where they are free to run and romp.
3. Afghan hound
The Afghan hound is one of the oldest known dog breeds in the world. In fact, this breed is thought to date back thousands of years! Though Afghan hounds have an elegant appearance, they are also quite active and very fast. The Afghan Hound Club of America recommends long walks and only turning them loose in areas that are fenced in, joking that the Afghan hound is “so fast that he can be in the next county before you even begin to give chase.”
4. Vizsla
According to the AKC, this medium-sized dog is active, affectionate and gentle. Bred in Hungary for pointing and retrieving, a vizsla can make the perfect pet for an energetic family.
5. German shepherd
The German shepherd is a consistently popular dog breed. Though these fiercely loyal canines are often used as police and military dogs, they make fantastic pets. If you’re thinking of adding one to your family, be sure to remember that German shepherds need lots of room for exercise and play.
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6. Dalmatian
The super-active Dalmatian is known as both a fire dog and a popular pet. If you’re on the hunt for an intelligent canine that loves to exercise, look no further! Dalmatians have a high endurance level, which makes them ideal running companions.
7. Borzoi
Also known as a Russian wolfhound, the borzoi was bred to hunt wolves. Though these regal, dignified canines make great family dogs, they can also be quite independent. If you decide to add a borzoi to your family, be sure to provide him with plenty of room to partake in his favorite activity: sprinting.
8. Whippet
A descendant of the greyhound, the whippet is a fast, playful, mellow and loyal dog. These qualities make the whippet a great family pet.
9. Scottish deerhound
Though the sweet, intelligent Scottish deerhound might look like a fuzzy mutt, this is not the case! These canines were actually bred in Scotland for deer hunting. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect family dog, look no further than this gentle and affectionate breed. After one look at that big, goofy face, you’ll be smitten.
10. Jack Russell terrier
The smallest entry in this list of the fastest dog breeds is the Jack Russell terrier. These playful working dogs, which were bred to hunt foxes, love to be the center of attention. Named after an English clergyman, the Jack Russell makes a perfect family pet. Best of all, these canine companions tend to live long, healthy lives.
