The 10 Fastest Dog Breeds in the World & Their Top Speeds

Have you ever been utterly amazed while watching your dog run at seemingly impossible speeds? As descendants of wolves, it's no surprise that our four-legged friends are so fast. There are a few reasons why some dogs can move so quickly. First of all, it is an evolutionary trait passed down from wolves. As food was not always easy to come by, wolves had to ensure their hunts were successful. This meant that only the fastest and fittest wolves were useful to hunt in packs. Another reason why certain breeds are so fast is selective breeding. While some dogs were bred to be lap dogs, others, such as the Border Collie (who just barely missed making the top 10), were bred for herding sheep, which takes athleticism and speed. The German Shepherd and Alaskan Husky are two other well-known, blazingly fast dogs who just didn't make the cut of being in the top 10. So without further ado, let's find out which breeds have the distinction of being named one of the world's fastest dogs!

Honourable Mention: Doberman Pinscher (32 mph / 52 km/h)

This 60-80 pound dog originates from Germany. Having been bred with the intention of being a guard dog, the "Dobie" is a strong and athletic dog. Any potential intruders would undoubtedly be in for a rough day if one of these dogs was on guard duty that day.

10. German Pinscher (33 mph / 53 km/h)

As the name suggests, the German Pinscher also originates from Germany, although initially bred with a different purpose from the Doberman Pinscher. These 25-40 pound muscular dogs had the task of hunting rodents. To this day, German Pinschers have a very high prey drive and love chasing after animals and showing off their speed. 

9. Whippet (34 mph / 55 km/h)

This elegant and high-energy dog is well deserving of a spot in the top 10 fastest breeds - after all, they were bred with speed in mind! Originally intended to aid poachers in hunting down rabbits and other small animals, these dogs are now famous for racing other Whippets in races known as "rag races."

8. Weimaraner (35 mph / 56 km/h)

The Weimaraner is yet another German dog making the top 10. This hunting dog helped its owners take down deer, wolves, and even bears! Despite their high prey drive, these dogs are extremely friendly. They will enjoy spending their energy playing with the family or running with other dogs, making these 55-80 pound pups great companions!

7. Borzoi (36 mph / 58 km/h)

This Russian hunting dog was a massive hit with Tsars and would often be a key factor in bringing down wolves, foxes, and other prey. Unfortunately, while this breed is amazingly fast, they are very independent and tend to get bored fast and are selective with their obedience. This makes the Borzoi not an ideal candidate for racing dogs.

6. Dalmatian (37 mph / 60 km/h)

One of the most recognizable breeds in the world, the Dalmatian was made famous by Disney's "101 Dalmatians" and their notorious widespread popularity among fire stations. This dog once upon a time had the responsibility of leading firemen and their horses to the scene of the fire. With this responsible task, it's no wonder Dalmatians have become known as one of the fastest dogs around.

5. Jack Russell Terrier (38 mph / 61 km/h)

The speed of this smaller 13-17 pound dog is often a surprise to many people. But don't let the Jack Russell Terrier's size fool you. Their tiny legs will carry them through the wind, and watching these pups run is an absolute joy. Although initially bred with hunting in mind, you can now find these dogs dominating the local parks' games of fetch!

4. Vizsla (40 mph / 64 km/h)

This 45-60 pound Hungarian dog has had important roles throughout history. From accompanying hunters on their expeditions to helping deliver messages on battlefields to soldiers in WW1, these beautiful dogs are brilliant. Vizslas are wonderful companions and will get very attached to you and your family, giving them the nickname "Velcro Vizslas."

3. Afghan Hound (40 mph / 64 km/h)

The Afghan Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, dating back thousands of years to when they were used to help navigate through the freezing Afghan mountain ranges. Although a very independent dog, the 50-60 pound Afghan Hound will still require you to give them daily exercise as they are highly energetic.

2. Saluki (42 mph / 68 km/h)

The Saluki is another ancient breed dating back thousands of years and originating in the Middle East. These speedy 70-pound dogs are thin and muscular and need large open spaces because they love to show off how fast they can go! Despite their high energy levels, the Saluki makes a great family pet and will be calm and gentle with all the family members… just make sure they get their daily exercise!

1. Greyhound (45 mph / 72 km/h)

Earning the title of World's Fastest Dog is the blindingly fast Greyhound! The favourite choice for all dog races, this ancient breed is absolutely iconic. These 50-85 pound dogs will outrun any other dog breed because their long, athletic, muscular build gives them a beautifully aerodynamic body! Interestingly, the Greyhound is not a long-distance runner but actually prefers sprinting and running in short bursts. Sadly, many Greyhounds end up in shelters or are abandoned after their racing career is over. It is extremely unfortunate because they make lovely family pets and are friendly and gentle with humans and other dogs.