Top 15 Fastest Dog Breeds

How Fast Is the Fastest Dog in the World?

If you’re curious about the fastest dog breeds, the Greyhound unquestionably takes the crown. This elegant breed can reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. To put that into perspective, Usain Bolt — widely regarded as the fastest man alive — has a top speed of about 27.8 mph. The average dog top speed clocks in at around 20 mph, while medium-to-large breeds like German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers typically max out around 30 mph.

Comparing dogs to other animals, racehorses can gallop at speeds near 50 mph. The fastest animal on land, however, is the cheetah, capable of bursts up to 70 mph. Within the canine world, Greyhounds reign supreme in speed, thanks largely to their slender, aerodynamic bodies built for sprinting. Other fast breeds include Afghan Hounds, Vizslas, and Whippets. Vizslas are especially known for their impressive stamina, while Whippets are famous for their quick acceleration.

Curious about which other breeds rank among the fastest dogs? Check out our selection of the top 15 fastest dog breeds on the planet.

Top Fastest Dogs in the World

Let us start with the latest. In 2024, a Whippet named Revenant became the fastest dog in the United States. He attained a speed of 35.65 MPH in 5.7 seconds! A German Shepherd named Duska of Buckelwurmer German Shepherds attained a speed of 31.37 mph.

According to A-Z Animals, one of the fastest dogs in the world is an Australian Greyhound named Star Title, who attained a speed of 41.83 miles per hour on a track in 1994. Greyhounds remain unbeatable when it comes to being the fastest dog breed. Another super-fast Greyhound on record is Fernando Bale. He achieved an incredible time of 29.12 seconds in a 515 m race at Angle Park, South Australia, in 2015, reaching a top speed of approximately 39.56 miles per hour. He won the Australian Cup that year.

In 2021, the fastest dog recorded in the United States was a Whippet named Reas. Reas attained an incredible speed of 34.98 mph. His owners, Lindsey & Matthew Manetti, attributed his speed to a daily practice of chasing bunnies.

In 1996, the Guinness World Records recognized a Saluki as the fastest dog breed. The dog had attained an impressive speed of 42.8 mph. In 2022, a Jack Russell Terrier named Macho held the Guinness World Record for the fastest time for a dog to run the bases on a baseball field. He raced across the bases in 21.06 seconds.

Top 15 Fastest Dog Breeds in the World

1. Greyhound – Top Speed: 45 mph

Greyhounds are sleek, muscular dogs capable of reaching speeds of 45 miles per hour. Originally bred for hunting, they later became popular as racing dogs starting in the 1920s. However, growing concerns over animal welfare led to Greyhound racing being banned or heavily restricted in many countries. Fortunately, thousands of retired racing Greyhounds have since been rescued and successfully rehomed.

Beyond their athleticism, Greyhounds are sweet and affectionate. They are gentle, noble, and loyal companions, known for being excellent with children and making wonderful family pets. Thanks to their adaptable nature and relatively low-maintenance care requirements, Greyhounds are well-suited for both individuals and families alike.

2. Saluki – Top Speed: 42 mph

The Saluki is an ancient breed believed to descend from hounds that existed around the 6th century BCE in Mesopotamia. According to the Guinness World Records, the fastest Saluki ran at a speed of 42.8 miles per hour.

Salukis are alert and intelligent dogs who love to run but remain calm and composed indoors. They are affectionate with their family members and dislike being left alone for long periods. Their short, silky coats require minimal grooming and they are considered low-shedding. Thanks to their adaptable nature, flexible personalities, and relatively low-maintenance care needs, Salukis are well-suited for both individuals and families.

3. Afghan Hound – Top Speed: 40 mph

The history of the Afghan Hound is somewhat uncertain, but it is believed that these dogs were originally bred to hunt alongside Afghan tribal chiefs. They can reach speeds of up to 40 miles per hour, making them strong contenders among the list of fastest dog breeds. Afghan Hounds are also excellent jumpers and can easily scale fences up to 7 feet high. If you’re considering adopting or purchasing an Afghan Hound, it’s important to secure your yard or keep the dog on a leash to prevent escapes.

Afghan Hounds are strong-willed and dignified dogs. While they tend to be aloof with strangers, they are affectionate and playful with their family members. Their long, silky coats require daily brushing and combing to prevent tangles, and many owners prefer professional grooming to keep their Afghan Hound’s coat in top condition.

4. Vizsla – Top Speed: 40 mph

The Vizsla is a lean, muscular Hungarian breed capable of reaching speeds up to 40 miles per hour. Originally bred as loyal hunting companions for Hungarian nobles and aristocrats, Vizslas excelled in pointing and retrieving, primarily hunting rabbits and waterfowl.

Vizslas are people-oriented family dogs that get along well with children and other pets. They are lively, intelligent, playful, sensitive, and very affectionate, making them generally easy to train. However, as a high-energy breed, Vizslas require an active owner who can provide ample mental and physical stimulation. Their short, smooth coat is low-maintenance and requires minimal grooming.

5. Ibizan Hound – Top Speed: 40 mph

Next on our list are the Ibizan Hounds, capable of reaching speeds up to 40 miles per hour. They are agile runners and can handle a variety of terrains with ease. According to Daily Paws, the Ibizan Hound likely descends from ancient Egyptian sighthounds, whose likenesses appear in tomb art, and was brought to the island of Ibiza by Phoenician traders around the 8th century B.C. On the rocky terrain of the Balearic Islands, local farmers selectively bred these dogs—known as Podenco Ibicenco or Ca Eivissenc—for their exceptional ability to hunt rabbits using sight, scent, and hearing. After centuries of relative isolation, the breed was introduced to the United States in the 1950s and gained official recognition by the American Kennel Club around 1978–1979.

Affectionately known as “Beezers,” Ibizan Hounds are active, alert, intelligent, and loyal dogs. They are versatile and highly trainable, making them excellent family pets. They are especially well-suited for people seeking a jogging companion or those involved in canine sports.

6. Jack Russell Terrier – Top Speed: 38 mph

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, active, and muscular breed. Despite their compact size, they can reach speeds of up to 38 miles per hour. With their boundless energy, agility, and spirited personalities, Jack Russells excel in various canine sports.

This breed may not be ideal for first-time dog owners. Jack Russells can be challenging to train and, due to their hunting background, may show aggression toward unfamiliar dogs and small pets. While they make loyal and loving family pets, they require an experienced owner who can dedicate time to consistent, patient training and socialization. These excitable dogs tend to bark frequently and need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom.

7. Dalmatian – Top Speed: 37 mph

Thanks to their lean, muscular build, Dalmatians can reach speeds of around 37 miles per hour. Along with their speed, they are also known for their impressive endurance, making them well-suited for canine sports that require both stamina and agility.

Dalmatians are loyal and affectionate, especially with their family members, though they can be somewhat aloof or reserved around strangers. They are generally easy to train due to their intelligence and being eager to please. As a high-energy breed, Dalmatians need an active and experienced owner who can provide the vigorous mental and physical stimulation they require.

8. Borzoi – Top Speed: 35 mph

The Russian Borzoi is another one of the slender racing dog breeds known for their speed and agility. This isn’t surprising at all, given their Greyhound ancestry. Originally bred to hunt wolves and other large game, Borzois have a rich hunting heritage.

Today, Russian Borzois are primarily kept as pets, although they remain relatively rare in the United States. While not inherently aggressive, they do possess a strong prey drive due to their hunting background. Like other sighthounds, Borzois are sensitive and loyal, yet aloof and reserved around strangers. With their family members, however, they tend to be affectionate and friendly. They strike a perfect balance between being cuddly and independent. When socialized properly from an early age, Borzois generally get along well with children and other dogs.

9. Whippet – Top Speed: 35 mph

There is often a debate about which running dogs are faster: Greyhounds or Whippets? While Greyhounds consistently top the list, Whippets come in a close second. Whippets can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour, thanks to their lightweight, aerodynamic, and muscular bodies.

Despite their lightning-fast speed on the racetrack, Whippets are surprisingly laid-back and lazy at home. They are perfectly content spending much of their time curled up next to their owners on the couch. Whippets are also intelligent and can be easily trained in basic obedience. Gentle and affectionate, they get along well with families, children, and other dogs. Whippets are ideal for owners who can provide a balanced mix of exercise, affection, and a calm, loving environment.

10. Weimaraner – Top Speed: 35 mph

Weimaraners, like Whippets, can reach speeds of around 35 miles per hour. This German breed, often called the “Grey Ghost” due to its striking blue-gray eyes, was originally bred for hunting large game such as boars, wolves, and deer.

This beautiful and athletic sporting dog can make a wonderful family pet when socialized from an early age. Weimaraners are friendly, fearless, alert, and obedient. They typically do well with children but may not be suitable around other household pets because of their strong prey drive. Due to their high energy and maintenance needs, Weimaraners require an active and experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent training.

11. Pharaoh Hound – Top Speed: 34 mph

Pharaoh Hounds, also known as the Blushing Hounds of Malta, are similar in speed to Whippets, capable of reaching around 35 miles per hour. These high-energy, slender dogs were originally bred for hunting. Thanks to their sleek, aerodynamic build, Pharaoh Hounds excel at high-speed pursuits across a variety of terrains.

According to PetMD, Pharaoh Hounds can make good family pets when socialized from an early age. While they are not particularly cuddly, they tend to be loyal and affectionate with their family members, including other dogs. Their friendly nature extends even to strangers, which means they are generally poor guard dogs. Pharaoh Hounds also have a tendency to bark excessively. They require plenty of firm training and socialization, making them better suited for experienced dog owners.

12. Doberman Pinscher – Top Speed: 32 mph

Dobermans are elegant dogs known for their speed and agility. They can reach speeds of 32 mph. Some, like this Doberman named Thor, have even clocked in speeds of about 34.89  mph.

Originally bred in Germany as protection dogs, Doberman Pinschers are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and strong protective instincts. They make excellent family pets and are especially good with children. Their short coat requires minimal grooming. However, Dobermans are high-energy and athletic, needing plenty of both mental and physical exercise. They tend to be reserved around strangers and can become pushy or demanding if handled by inexperienced owners. Early, consistent, and firm training is essential to ensure a well-behaved Doberman.

13. Border Collie – Top Speed: 30 mph

Border Collies are touted to be the most intelligent dogs in dogdom, but did you also know that they are known for their incredible speed? Indeed, this breed is known to attain speeds up to 30 mph.

Originally bred for herding livestock along the border of England and Scotland, Border Collies are the most popular dogs in agility competitions today. They make excellent pets for both solo owners and families. With proper training, socialization, and regular exercise, Border Collies become loving and devoted companions. They are physically affectionate and enjoy cuddling. When paired with the right owner, they are quick learners and highly trainable.

14. Belgian Malinois – Top Speed: 30-36 mph

Belgian Malinois are one of the fastest dog breeds ranked. They are renowned for their speed, agility, and athleticism. They consistently rank as top contenders in canine agility and obstacle course competitions, and they are also celebrated for their exceptional intelligence.

As pets, Malinois require experienced handlers. They are highly energetic dogs that need plenty of mental and physical exercise every day. Without sufficient stimulation, they can become destructive or even develop behavioral issues such as depression. Due to their naturally aloof nature, they may not always be the best fit for homes with young children or other pets. However, with early socialization and positive, consistent training, most Malinois make excellent family companions. Their loyalty and protective instincts also make them outstanding protection dogs.

15. Poodle – Top Speed: 30 mph

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Standard Poodles can reach speeds of over 30 miles per hour. While they don’t typically race like Greyhounds, they excel as water retrievers and often compete in dock diving and retriever hunt tests.

Highly intelligent and people-oriented, Poodles are relatively easy to train. Their hypoallergenic coats make them a great choice for individuals with pet allergies. Poodles are excellent pets for first-time dog owners, though they require regular grooming, including professional grooming appointments, to keep their coats healthy and well-maintained.

Final Thoughts: Which Fast Dog Breed Is Right for You?

As we’ve seen, there are many impressive contenders among the fastest dog breeds. However, before welcoming one of these speedy companions into your home, take a moment to consider your lifestyle, living space, and activity level. Fast dogs often come with high energy levels and specific training needs. They thrive with structure, routine, daily physical exercise, ample mental stimulation, and plenty of attention.

As always, prioritize adoption over purchasing from breeders. Choosing adoption not only gives a dog a second chance at a loving home but could also lead you to the perfect companion who matches your pace of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest dog breed?

The Greyhound, capable of reaching speeds over 45 miles per hour, consistently ranks as the fastest dog breed in the world.

What is the strongest and fastest dog breed on Earth?

While the Greyhound is the fastest, it is not the strongest. German Shepherds can reach speeds up to 30 mph and are known for their strength. Some Mastiff breeds, such as the Kangal, English Mastiff, and Anatolian Shepherd, combine notable speed with considerable strength as well.

Where do Border Collies rank among the fastest dog breeds?

With top speeds around 30 miles per hour, Border Collies rank fairly high among the fastest dog breeds.

Which dog breed is faster, Greyhounds or Shepherds?

Greyhounds remain unbeaten as the fastest dogs. However, some Shepherd breeds, like German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois, also rank among the fastest dog breeds in the world.

Reference List

1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/winners-akc-fastest-dogs-usa-2024/

2. https://www.facebook.com/buckelwurmergsd/posts/duska-beat-the-2022-fastest-german-shepherd-record-today-3137-mph-which-is-also-/538555211604827/

3. https://a-z-animals.com/articles/is-this-the-fastest-dog-alive/

4. https://oxford-stadium.co.uk/blog/who-is-the-fastest-greyhound-ever/

5. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/sports/the-2022-fastest-dogs-usa-winners/

6. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saluki

7. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/commercial/2022/4/macho-the-dog-runs-bases-at-dodger-stadium-in-record-breaking-time-679486

8. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/pharaoh-hound

9. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0O_9Xa6XX0

10. https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/smartest-dog-breeds

11. https://www.dailypaws.com/dogs-puppies/dog-breeds/ibizan-hound