We all think our dogs are lightning-fast when they zoom around the yard after their favorite toy. But have you ever wondered how their speed stacks up to other dogs? And what are the fastest dog breeds in the world?
To answer those questions, check out the list below. Not only will you find the fastest dog breeds with pictures, but also with their average weight, the speed they can travel, and a few other fun facts.
Common Questions About Fast Dogs
These are frequently asked and common questions and answers about dog speed in general.
How fast can a dog run?
The speed dogs can run varies depending on the breed. It ranges from under 15mph to 45mph.
What is the fastest dog?
There are varying reports of which dog is the fastest. The top two are both greyhounds: Shakey Jakey and Tims Crow.
What are racing dog breeds?
Greyhounds are raced professionally. Some of the breeds raced for fun are dachshunds, whippets, and other sighthounds.
Fastest Dog Breeds Chart
Here is a chart of the fastest dog breeds ranked by speed and size. The size was determined by multiplying the dog’s weight by height.
Breed weight and height in this article are averages based on AKC breed standards.
| Dog Breed | Speed (MPH) | Weight (Pounds) | Height (Inches) |
| Greyhound | 45 | 65 | 28 |
| Saluki | 42 | 50 | 25 |
| Ibizan Hound | 40 | 47 | 24 |
| Vizsla | 40 | 55 | 22 |
| Afghan Hound | 40 | 55 | 25 |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 38 | 12 | 11 |
| Dalmation | 37 | 52 | 21 |
| Borzoi | 36 | 85 | 27 |
| Whippet | 35 | 32 | 20 |
| Pharaoh Hound | 35 | 50 | 23 |
| Weimaraner | 35 | 70 | 25 |
| Doberman Pinscher | 32 | 80 | 26 |
| Standard Poodle | 30 | 60 | 24 |
| Border Collie | 30 | 42 | 20 |
| German Shepherd | 30 | 70 | 24 |
| Great Dane | 30 | 140 | 30 |
| Giant Schnauzer | 28 | 77 | 25 |
| Scottish Deerhound | 28 | 87 | 30 |
| Italian Greyhound | 25 | 10 | 14 |
| Rhodesian Ridgeback | 25 | 77 | 25 |
Most of the fastest dogs are in the AKC Hound group. Here’s the amount for each group:
- 9 Hound Group
- 3 Working Group
- 2 Sporting Group
- 2 Non-Sporting Group
- 2 Herding Group
- 1 Terrier
- 1 Toy Group
Fastest Dog Breeds List
Greyhound
The greyhound is an ancient breed originating in North Africa about 5,000 years ago. The breed’s speed, hunting ability, temperament, and beauty caught the attention of people around the world, especially royalty.
Originally bred for hunting rabbits, greyhounds were eventually bred for racing.
How fast can a greyhound run?
A greyhound’s top speed can be 45 mph on a straight run. It averages 40 mph on a round track or lure course.
When not running or racing, greyhounds spend most of their time lounging around and sleeping. They are sweet, gentle, and affectionate. Greyhounds make great pets.
- Speed: 45 mph
- Average weight: 65 pounds
- Average height: 28 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Saluki
Saluki is another ancient breed that may go back as far as 7000 BC. They were the hunting dogs of kings. Saluki is known as the royal dog of Egypt.
Salukis were used to hunt and bring down gazelle because of their incredible power, speed, and endurance. They are able to run on sand and rocky mountain terrain.
A Saluki is typically gentle, quiet, and independent. Many are considered aloof or reserved. Salukis need a place to run and is not recommended as an apartment dog.
- Speed: 42 mph
- Average weight: 50 pounds
- Average height: 25 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Ibizan Hound
Ibizan Hound can be found in history as far back as 3400 BC. Phoenician traders brought Egyptian dogs to the island of Ibiza in the eighth century. Ibizans began using the dogs for hunting rabbit and still do today.
An Ibizan Hound is affectionate, even-tempered, and loyal. Ibizan Hounds make excellent pets because they are versatile and trainable. They do require lots of exercise and can jump up to six feet from a standing position.
- Speed: 40 mph
- Average weight: 47 pounds
- Average height: 24 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Vizsla
The Vizsla breed originates in Hungary and is also known as Hungarian Pointer. Vizslas are used as both retriever and pointer. Their speed is crucial for catching and hunting hare and fowl.
Vizslas are great companion dogs and have a tendency to be Velcro dogs. They are known for sticking close to their owners. It’s one of the reasons they are excellent hunting dogs.
- Speed: 40 mph
- Average weight: 55 pounds
- Average height: 22 inches
- AKC Sporting Group
Afghan Hound
Afghan Hound is a very old breed that predates written history. The actual origin is unknown although it is believed to be in the general area of Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan.
Afghan’s long hair protects it from harsh mountaintop conditions where they were used for hunting small game and even leopards. The combination of their speed, endurance, and pivotal hip joints enable them to quickly cover ground and over obstacles. Afghan Hounds excel in lure coursing.
- Speed: 40 mph
- Average weight: 55 pounds
- Average height: 25 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is the only dog on this list that is not an official recognized AKC breed. Jack Russell Terriers are a type of working terrier and there is no breed standard.
Jack Russells were bred for fox hunting beginning in the mid to late 1800s. Their speed and size made them perfect for going in fox holes and catching foxes.
Jack Russell Terriers are high energy and require lots of activity and exercise. JRT’s are not for people who want a dog that lounges around all day.
Of the top 10 fastest dogs, the Jack Russell Terrier is the fastest for its size.
- Speed: 38 mph
- Average weight: 12 pounds
- Average height: 11 inches
- Terrier but not an AKC recognized breed
Dalmation
The exact origin of the Dalmation has not been proven. Some believe it originated in the historical Dalmatia region of Croatia. Dalmations have been used as bird dogs, retrievers, trail hounds, or in packs for boar or stag hunting.
Dalmations are widely known as “The Carriage Dog” and are depicted as such in artwork dating back to the 1800s. They are best known for being firehouse dogs and were trained to clear the path in front of firefighters. Their speed and endurance allowed them to keep ahead of horse-drawn carriages.
- Speed: 37 mph
- Average weight: 52 pounds
- Average height: 21 inches
- AKC Non-sporting Group
Borzoi
The Borzoi breed originates in Russia in the 17th century and was once known as the Russian Wolfhound. They were bred by Russian aristocracy to hunt wolves. Some farmers use them for protecting livestock.
A Borzoi’s chase instinct, agility, and speed make it excel at lure coursing. These days Borzois are primarily family companion dogs, a job they are great at because of their sweet temperament.
- Speed: 36 mph
- Average weight: 85 pounds
- Average height: 27 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Whippet
The Whippet breed originates in Victorian England in the late 18th century. They were bred for hunting small game. Miners began racing whippets for fun because they enjoyed dog racing but could not afford greyhounds. The popularity of whippet racing grew and today there are organized whippet races held around the world.
The whippet is the fastest dog of its size with a top speed of 35 miles per hour. Because they are agile and versatile, whippets compete in straight racing, lure coursing, dock diving, obedience, agility, and flyball.
Whippet’s gentle and loving nature makes them excellent family and therapy dogs. They are couch potatoes for the most part. Whippets need to be exercised daily with a short run, playtime, or long walk.
- Speed: 35 mph
- Average weight: 32 pounds
- Average height: 20 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Learn about fun whippet racing and see more whippet rag racing pictures.
Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound breed originates in Malta about 2,000 years ago and is a descendant of hunting dogs in ancient Egypt. Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest domesticated dogs in history.
Pharaoh Hounds are used for hunting rabbit. They have great stamina and strength and can hunt for hours. Their feet can easily handle rocky terrain.
Pharaoh Hounds require both physical and mental exercise on a frequent basis. They are intelligent, playful, loving, and friendly.
- Speed: 35 mph
- Average weight: 50 pounds
- Average height: 23 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Weimaraner
The Weimaraner breed originates in Germany in the early 1800s. They were bred as big game hunters for catching bears, deer, mountain lions, and wolves. They are also house dogs and love human interaction.
Weimaraners have a lot of energy and stamina. They require lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Weimaraner’s strong prey drive and chase instinct make them great for agility competition.
- Speed: 35 mph
- Average weight: 70 pounds
- Average height: 25 inches
- AKC Sporting Group
Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher breed originated in Germany around 1890. It was developed by a tax collector to protect him on his rounds (German tax collectors were met with hostility at that time in history).
The “Tax Collector’s Dog” soon turned into an incredible working and protection breed. Dobermans are used in military and police work, as therapy and service dogs, for search and rescue, and much more.
- Speed: 32 mph
- Average weight: 80 pounds
- Average height: 26 inches
- AKC Working Group
Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is the largest of the three poodle varieties. The breed originated in Germany about 400 years ago. It was bred to hunt ducks.
Poodles are highly intelligent and excellent retrievers. Standard Poodles are fast both in the water and on the ground.
- Speed: 30 mph
- Average weight: 60 pounds
- Average height: 24 inches
- AKC Non-sporting Group
Border Collie
The Border Collie breed originates in the area around the border between England and Scotland. Exactly when the breed was established has not been pinpointed. Collies have been used by sheepherders in that area since the Romans arrived many ages ago.
Where does the Border Collie rank among the fastest dog breeds?
Based on the combination of size and speed, the Border Collie ranks 14 in this list. Their speed is needed for herding in order for them to quickly get around a herd. It’s necessary to keep the herd together and headed in the right direction.
Border Collies are working dogs and must be kept challenged and active. They need a job to do!
- Speed: 30 mph
- Average weight: 42 pounds
- Average height: 20 inches
- AKC Herding Group
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd breed originates in Germany but with varied in different parts of the country. In the late 1800s, breeders crossed the types and developed the ancestors of the current breed standard.
German Shepherds were originally bred for herding. They have since become wonderful working dogs and are well-known as police, military, and service dogs. They are easily trained and extremely loyal.
How fast can a German Shepherd run?
German Shepherds can run up to 30 miles per hour.
Did you know there are white German Shepherd dogs? Take a look at Pawley.
- Speed: 30 mph
- Average weight: 70 pounds
- Average height: 24 inches
- AKC Herding Group
Great Dane
The Great Dane breed originates in Germany about 400 years ago. They were bred to hunt wild boar. Danes were once ferocious but that trait was eventually bred out and now they are gentle giants.
The Great Dane is often referred to as being the size of a small horse, and while they might not be quite that big, they can still run like one.
How fast can a Great Dane run?
A Great Dane can run up to 30 miles per hour.
At an average weight of 64kgs (140 pounds), the Great Dane is the fastest dog over 60kgs.
Great Danes are sweet and affectionate. They have no idea how big they are and will try to be lap dogs if given a chance.
- Speed: 30 mph
- Average weight: 140 pounds
- Average height: 30 inches
- AKC Working Group
Giant Schnauzer
The Giant Schnauzer breed originates in the German Bavarian Alps in the mid-1800s. They were bred to drive cattle from the farm up in the mountains down to the market. They also served as guard dogs.
Giant Schnauzers are loyal, intelligent, and playful. They are easily trained and can compete in agility, obedience, herding, and tracking.
- Speed: 28 mph
- Average weight: 77 pounds
- Average height: 25 inches
- AKC Working Group
Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound breed originates in Scotland and believed to be there before people arrived in the ninth century. They were used to hunt and bring down 400-pound wild red deer with formidable antlers.
Deerhounds are quiet, keen, alert, dignified, and have great persistence and courage. They are easy to train and make ideal companions because of their loyalty and devotion.
- Speed: 28 mph
- Average weight: 87 pounds
- Average height: 30 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound breed originates 2,000 years ago in the Mediterranean basin region that is now Greece and Turkey. They were bred to hunt small game and became companions for nobility.
Iggys are wonderful companions, playful, and love attention. They are trainable and can do well in obedience, agility, and rally.
Of the top 20 fastest dogs, the Italian Greyhound is the smallest dog.
- Speed: 25 mph
- Average weight: 10 pounds
- Average height: 14 inches
- AKC Toy Group
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback breed originates in South Africa in the late 19th century. Rhodesian Ridgeback was once known as an African Lion Hound. They were bred to track and bay lions but never kill them.
Ridgebacks are strong-willed, independent, and can be domineering. They are faithful, protective, and can be quite affectionate with anyone they trust.
- Speed: 25 mph
- Average weight: 77 pounds
- Average height: 25 inches
- AKC Hound Group
Additional Information
Learn more about these dog breeds on the American Kennel Club website.
Final Thoughts on the Fastest Dog Breeds
Now that you know the ins and outs of all the fastest dog breeds, it’s time to ready, set, go, and have fun with your dog! Both fast and slow dogs love playing with toys.
Were you surprised by any of the dog breeds on the list? Or think a breed should be on it? Leave a comment below on which breed and why.
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Jack Russell’s average 65 pounds?
This article needs major corrections.
Thank you for bringing the error to my attention. The info for the Jack Russell has been corrected.
And there is no way Jack Russell Terriers are faster than Whippets. Whippets are racing dogs, they have been bred to run.
She’s going by weight/size !, I had a short legged JRT he was rapid,he used to play with a greyhound, he was to quick and manovered to quick for the grey hound to catch, in a straight line yeah the greyhound would catch with having larger strides,a whippets turning point would match the JRT but a straight line chace a whippet would easily beat the JRT but then whippets and JRT are bred for different purposes, this article is the fastest dogs in there weight catagory, just like boxing , well that’s my take .
Most standard poodles height is 25 inches. They origin is in France.
Thank you! I did further investigation and changed information on Standard Poodle to average weight 60 pounds and height at 24 inches.
I think you forgot the Azawakh dog breed 40 mph.
I think you forgot Azawakh dog breed 40mph.
What about the Siberian husky isn’t it fast
Huskies can run up to 28 mph which is average for large dog breeds. Huskies are known for endurance instead of speed.
you also forgot Basenji who is 5000yo and runs at 30mph 🙂 it is a terrier.
Thanks! I’ll take a look at the Basenji breed and its speed/size ratio.
Whippets are certainly the third fastest and also have the best acceleration.
Jack Russells are fast but are not a top ten breed for speed. Belgian Malanois are faster than German Shepherds as are German Pointers.
Hope this helps.
The fastest dogs over short distances say half a mile are greyhounds,
The fastest dog over long distance is the saluki,
The quickest dog over short distance is a whippet but whippets can run long distances also,it’s what it was bred for,carrying loads as fast as poss over distance,
The fastest dog with endurance is the saluki,
Endurance dogs arnt super fast like the dogs above ,such as husky, malamute, wolf type dogs are powerful average speed with there gift of endurance, the whippet is the quickest 100 sprint champ,but can do the 1500 metre but slower then — the greyhound is the 2/4/800 metre champ, the saluki is the 1500+metre champ(endurance sprinter), the husky, malamute is the cross country champs aswell as any wolfhound, bred for strength and endurance just like the wolf ,
I have a German shepard and a rottweiler, and in all seriousness, my boxer is faster than both. I cant beleive Boxers are nowhere on your list.
I have a 8 month old male Rhodesian Ridgeback and he is already 40kg which is already 10 lbs heavier than your “average” weight and he is ripped to shreds with lean muscle. The average weight and height is massively out on your list. Average weight of a healthy fit RR male is 110 lbs (50kg), and that is lean ripped muscle with back 2 ribs showing and a slim waste. My 8 month old Ridgeback will fly past 30mph already and maintain it for ages. He is also 2 inches taller than your average height. The RR were bred to chase down lions in the African plains and can hold speeds over 30 mph longer than majority of breeds on your list. They have Greyhound and Great Dane bloodline’s in them. There’s very limited information on RR’s speed which I actually love. I’m posting to educate. There’s a lot of impressive dog coursing events where the RR beats the whippet and Borzoi which is insanely impressive. They are essentially the Navy Seals/ SBS of the dog world. Nobody has a clue how fast they come in and it’s too late when you realise 😉
My information is based on the AKC breed standard that you can read here: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/RhodesianRidgeback.pdf
Males 85 pounds (38.5kg), females 70 pounds (32kg).
As with all breeds, some dogs are larger or smaller than the standard. Yours is probably from a line of ridgebacks that are larger than the standard.