Can you guess which are the fastest dog breeds around?
When it comes to how fast dogs are, there are a couple of instances where you can bet on the fact that you will not be able to catch them, especially if they do not want to do it; think about crate training time or when they have taken off with one of your slippers.
However, when it comes to the fastest dog breeds in the world, you need to expect that they will not just try to evade you; they are meant to catch even the most slippery animals and people out there.
The fastest dog breeds we have today were initially bred for hunting, catching all sorts of pests on the property, or being able to compete in coursing ability tests (CAT).
These fast pups that we are going to introduce to you today can easily average over 30 miles per hour, with many of them being hounds, which can also make use of their speed and superior eyesight in order to complete courses or catch their prey.
This does not mean that any of these pups are going to be constantly hunting, but rather that if you are going to be getting one of these fast dog breeds, you should be prepared to offer them the running space they need.
From the very longest and sleekest pups to some smaller ones that are going to surprise you, let’s check out the world’s fastest pups!
Did you know about these breeds before? Have you ever considered any of them family dogs? Share your answers in the comments down below!
Greyhounds
- Average speed: 40–45 mph
If you have heard about any fast dog breeds before, it has to be the Greyhound. With their elegant and sleek build, alongside the infamous greyhound racing tracks, it is impossible not to think about them when it comes to pups who are runners.
Most Greyhounds can easily outrun humans, especially if they are sprinting, but they can also end up maintaining an average speed of around 35 mph for as long as 7 miles!
They also have a range of vision of 270 degrees, which gives them an advantage when running and also what got them the nickname “sighthound.”.
As a dog breed, they are calm and devoted to their owners and can make for amazing family dogs since they get along easily with children too. Keep in mind that it could be that some of them have anxiety, which can end up putting them on edge.
However, know that they are going to need to exert their energy and run freely at least once a day; they won’t be happy with a 10-minute walk around the block. But once they had the time to run around, they were one of the biggest couch potatoes for the rest of the day!
Dalmatian
- Average speed: 35 mph
Once known as the firefighter dogs, these pups have the stamina and speed to be able to help when firefighters!
Despite losing popularity in the last couple of decades, Dalmatians are a majestic breed that is known for their speed and energy. This is part of what made some avoid the breed, as you need to be able to provide them with enough exercise to keep them happy and to give them a good outlet for their energy.
Dalmatians make for an amazing family dog, perfect for those who have bigger children since they are full of energy, and smaller kids would not be able to keep up with them.
They are loyal and sensitive, and while they are going to love running around, they are just as happy to cuddle and be low-key with their owners.
Dalmatians can sometimes be reserved around new people and in brand-new situations, but you can easily use positive reinforcement to help them come out of their shells in your training sessions.
Know that they are a dog that needs to be socialized and properly trained, who will need long walks in order to exert their energy.
Saluki
- Average speed: 40–43 mph
Similar in appearance to the Greyhound, the Saluki is running behind them for the title of the fastest dog in the world!
Salukis are an African breed that can be the best companion for active people. They are independent, and compared with cats for their personalities, Salukis love to be around their humans, but they are also known to be in need of alone time too.
This fast pup is going to need long walks, and they love nothing more than to play lightning-fast fetch games with their owners. If you want to do that, make sure to do this in an enclosed or safe space for the pup since they can sometimes stop at nothing to catch the disk!
They are calm and loyal, and if you love a dog that is the perfect combination of active, loving, and independent, then the Saluki will be the one for you.
Just make note that you will need to make the most of the positive reinforcement training and rewards in their training and that you will need to expose them to constant socialization with other humans and dogs.
Jack Russel terrier
- Average speed: 30–35 mph
The smallest dog breed on our list, this does not make the Jack Russell terrier any less fast.
This Australian breed is one of the three in the Russel terrier family (along with the Russel and Parson Russel terriers), and it is considered to be the fastest of the three. They have their roots in English terriers, and they have been bred in order to be active working dogs.
While the other breeds on our list have been bred for speed and hunting, the Jack Russell terrier has been bred in order to be able to catch vermin, so they are known for burrowing and sussing out any sort of prey.
They are spunky and full of life, so do not underestimate their size; they are going to need a lot of exercise and an owner who will be able to keep up with their energy. Known for never quitting, you will have to keep an eye on them to not overexert themselves and keep an eye out for their affinity to dig holes.
Otherwise, they are great for families or active owners, and they love to get involved in all types of fun activities, so you can bet on them winning a number of agility courses.
Border collie
- Average speed: 30 mph
Despite not being quite as fast as the hounds, the Border Collie is not to be underestimated, as they can easily catch up with anyone.
Known in the canine world as one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the Border Collie has been bred to herd animals, and in their long history as a breed, they have also proven how intelligent they are.
This brainiac canine can blitz through agility courses, and they are known to perform amazing feats in terms of tricks, there are even stories of them memorizing bus routes!
Entirely dedicated to their owners, Border Collies are a breed of fast dogs that need to get their exercise in; otherwise, they will get frustrated, and you do not want to know the kind of mischief a highly intelligent breed can do when too wound up!
They need a lot of attention and to do activities with their humans, so first-time owners are not expected to be able to keep up with them.
However, if you have your heart set on them and know you can provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need, they are a companion that will be with you through thick and thin!
Are they the best running partners?
While all these breeds make for great companions for active people, they do not make for the best running companions. Some of them perform well when it comes to sprinting, while others are fast but lack the stamina to keep up a long run.
If you want to get a running partner, make sure you research the breed thoroughly so you do not end up disappointed or with your pup in an unhealthy hobby for them.
If you want to know more about these breeds, this complete guide on all dog breeds is a joy to read and an amazing resource!
Sometimes it may be fun to have a dog that is full of energy and loves to run, but other times you may just want a cuddlebug that is always going to be there with you no matter what! If you are looking for a pup that will love you unconditionally for years to come, make sure you check out our list of the most affectionate dogs!
