The fastest dog breeds are excellent buddies for your outdoor activities. Whether it’s running, hiking, and just about anything that requires speed and/or stamina, these pups are always up for the challenge!
When it comes to running, both the Greyhound and Saluki are hard to beat. Their light and aerodynamic build gives them an impressive top speed of 45 mph to zoom past the other dogs with minimal effort. Catching up close to these speedsters is the German Shorthaired Pointer with an average speed of 43 mph.
Get to know more about the fastest dog breeds on the planet, their average top speed, and what their agility skills are good for.
31. Greyhound
Average Top Speed: 45 mph
Topping our list of the fastest dog breeds is the lighting quick Greyhound. With a pace of 45 mph, these English pups easily put any professional marathon runner to shame. During the first 6 strides they take, they can reach their maximum top speed right away.
As Greyhounds were bred to race, no wonder they can run that fast. With their lean, slender, and delicate build, speed is not even a question for these zippy canines.
30. Saluki
Average Top Speed: 45 mph
One glance at the Saluki and it’s not surprising that it’s one of the fastest dog breeds. Sprinting at an unstoppable speed of 45 mph, they definitely let folks behind them eat their dust!
Trained to hunt by sight, Salukis are exceptional at what they do. Nobles and royals count on these pups as their hunting buddies and always deliver as expected.
29. Pharaoh Hound
Average Top Speed: 35 mph
Most hounds are fast but the Pharaoh Hound is among the quickest. These sprint masters can run at a speed of 35 mph, which is much faster than what an average human does.
Pharaoh Hounds are great hunting dogs and can easily catch their prey in minutes. With a lean body at 50 lbs, there’s definitely not a lot of drag to get in the way between this pup and its target!
28. Doberman Pinscher
Average Top Speed: 32 mph
With a body that’s built for speed and endurance, the Doberman Pinscher deserves a spot on our list. This working dog is not only a fast runner but also a quick thinker. They are easy to train, which makes them an outstanding hunting companion.
But aside from the lightweight build, Dobbies are also fearless canines. With nothing holding them back, they can run towards their goal with great speed and determination.
27. Weimaraner
Average Top Speed: 35 mph
They may be a bit on the bulky side but there’s no way that Weimaraners are slow. In fact, these pups can sprint at a speed of 35 mph. That’s enough to put a professional runner to shame.
Bred as hunting dogs, Weimaraners can chase big game without fail – deer, boar, you name it. When you set them off, they make sure to get the job done… And fast!
26. German Shepherd
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
German Shepherds are fantastic guard dogs that are known for their courageousness, smarts, and speed. With a velocity rate of 30 mph, these dogs are definitely no slowpokes. Even with their large bodies, they can still overtake the average pup easily.
With their innate speed, GSDs are dependable police and military dogs that are always up to the chase. And with brains to boot, they are easy to train to get on their target at a fraction of the time.
25. Borzoi
Average Top Speed: 36 mph
With looks and build resembling other sighthounds, the Borzoi is one of the fastest dog breeds around. Capping their velocity at 36 mph, they are indeed at the top of their game whenever they sprint.
Borzois are amazing hunting companions because of their ability to track game of different sizes. Their sharp vision and keen sense of smell, combined with their agility, they can easily be your go-to for a hunting and hiking buddy.
24. Great Dane
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
Great Danes are known for their towering build at 32 inches at the shoulder, with lean and long legs to match their slender bodies. But even with a hefty weight of 150 lbs, these gentle giants can run fast at 30 mph.
These canines are loyal pets that are protective of their owners. No intruder should dare mess with these pups, or they will be up for an exhausting sprint with these speedsters!
23. Siberian Husky
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
Famous as sled dogs, Siberian Huskies are also known to run at a quick speed of 28 mph on average. And when they’re pulling a heavy sled, that speed plays around 10 to 18 mph, which is not bad either, considering the massive load.
Huskies are not only fast but strong and sturdy, with bodies built like a tank. With lots of energy to spare, they need about an hour or two of exercise each day.
22. Pitbull
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
Another massively-built pooch, the American Pitbull Terrier is one fast runner. They reach point A to point B at about 30 mph, which is pretty fast considering their bulky build.
But just one word of caution – Pitbulls can be tough and aggressive toward intruders. This is why they make amazing guard dogs because not only are they protective of their families but they can chase intruders away without hesitation.
21. Rat Terrier
Average Top Speed: 28 mph
Historically bred for ratting or to chase away rodents, Rat Terriers are expert at what they do. And with such responsibility, they possess great speed to help them get the job done quickly.
Their average top speed is at 27 mph, which is rather impressive considering their miniscule bodies. But with a small build comes a lighter weight, which enables them to run fast without tiring too quickly.
20. Dalmatian
Average Top Speed: 37 mph
With those long legs, it is not surprising that a Dalmatian can also sprint fast. These pups once served as coach dogs, which means they trotted alongside a coach or carriage to keep the passengers safe from assailants.
Just how were they able to keep up with the speed of these vehicles? With their running speed at 37 mph, that’s how!
19. Shiba Inu
Average Top Speed: 25 mph
A fluffy and muscular snow dog, the Shiba Inu never fails to impress when it comes to speed and strength. These fox-looking pups are excellent sprinters with 25 mph as their average top speed.
No matter what task that requires brawn and brains, these Shiba Inus always deliver. And they do it fast every time.
18. Basenji
Average Top Speed: 25 mph
Another vermin hunter on the list, the Basenji is one of the fastest dog breeds with a 25 mph top speed. They are compact, lightweight, yet sturdy little pups.
Because of their compact bodies and speed, they are the perfect canines to hunt and catch equally fast targets such as rats. Along with their clever tactics, they can easily outsmart them all!
17. Whippet
Average Top Speed: 34 mph
The name itself already gives one a sense of how fast these dogs are. Whippets are sighthound dogs that can sprint lightning fast at 34 mph. With their slim physiques, nothing holds them back from dashing towards their target.
Loyal, energetic, and courageous, these canines have the qualities of an excellent hunting partner. And with their unfailing speed, that’s pretty much icing on top.
16. Scottish Deerhound
Average Top Speed: 28 mph
Scottish Deerhounds are one of the largest and fastest dog breeds in the canine world. They have a slight resemblance to the Greyhound with their long and lean build but a longer, wiry coat.
With a maximum speed of 28 mph, they can definitely run fast. These sporting animals are great at hunting any game, big or small.
15. Giant Schnauzer
Average Top Speed: 28 mph
Just because they are “giants” does not stop them from running fast. These canines are impressive sprinters for their size with an average top speed of 28 mph.
Bred for various farm tasks such as herding cattle and guarding properties, they are most certainly fit for the job. With speed, endurance, and intelligence all in one pup, Giant Schnauzers are unstoppable!
14. Jack Russell
Average Top Speed: 38 mph
The short and stocky Jack Russell are amazing working and hunting dogs. They are experts at chasing and catching their target underground, thanks to their build and agility. Hitting speeds at 38 mph, this pooch is definitely a sprinter.
This speed can be a bit of a concern for their owners should they decide to run away, though. It can be tough to keep up with these pups in case they scamper off!
13. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Average Top Speed: 28 mph
With its roots as a hunting dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback possesses an impressive speed to get the job done. They can run up to 28 mph, which is made possible by its lean and slender body.
Rhodesians are not only fast but they are fearless, too. This is why they are great at driving away lions and wild animals to keep their families and properties safe.
12. Australian Terrier
Average Top Speed: 28 mph
Nimble and swift, Australian Terriers may not be long and lean but they can definitely run fast. Reaching speeds of 18 mph, they are always up for some serious sprinting.
But these pups don’t just run around for no reason. They are great vermin hunters, so rodents, beware! Australian Terriers are also amazing watch dogs because of their innate loyalty to their owners and the speed to chase intruders away.
11. Sloughi
Average Top Speed: 42 mph
Sloughis are quite rare in the US but these sighthounds are commonly bred in North Africa. They are athletic pups with an impressive speed at about 42 mph. With their speed, determination, and bravery, they can ward off wild animals that hang around their families.
Do take note that these pups are rather sensitive. Thus, you should provide them a firm, yet gentle training for best results.
10. Brittany Spaniel
Average Top Speed: 40 mph
Brittany Spaniels are fast – both on land and in the water. With a top speed of 40 mph, they can run fast and with minimal effort.
An all-around hunting companion, Brittanys use their speed to chase and catch game in minutes. They can also swim and retrieve waterfowl that land in the water, if need be.
9. Australian Shepherd
Average Top Speed: 35 mph
Just like the Border Collie, Australian Shepherds are working and herding pups. They make sure the herd is safe from wild animals and threats lurking behind. And what better way to make this possible than by using their super speed!
Running as fast as 30 mph, Australian Shepherds are mighty sprinters. They could also use daily exercise to stay healthy and prevent negative behaviors.
8. Italian Greyhound
Average Top Speed: 40 mph
Although they are smaller than their Greyhound cousins, the Italian Greyhounds are definitely nimble and quick. Sprinting at a fast pace – about 40 mph – that’s some serious speed.
Iggys are great at tracking and catching prey. But when not out and about, they enjoy curling up on the couch and taking some snoozes.
7. Standard Poodle
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
Don’t be deceived by the delicate features of this pup – they are most certainly not a sissy dog despite their high-maintenance appearance. Standard Poodles are quite athletic and up for fun and games each time.
Sprinting at a maximum speed of 30 mph, these duck hunting pups are certainly fast. Plus, they are brilliant swimmers, too, in case their prey lands in the water.
6. Ibizan Hound
Average Top Speed: 40 mph
With a long history dating back to 3400 BC, they are among the oldest dog breeds on Earth. Ibizian Hounds are also fast sprinters at impressive 40 mph speeds. They can also spring up in the air at up to 6 feet, which is another one of their unique skills.
Excellent at hunting rabbits, Ibizian Hounds have the skill, speed, and build for the job. And with their pleasant demeanor, they make amazing pets, too.
5. Afghan Hound
Average Top Speed: 40 mph
They’re fluffy, graceful, and surprisingly quick-paced! Afghan Hounds are an old breed and used to hunt small and medium-sized game. With a 40 mph top speed, they can surely capture their prey.
A firm training is all they need to overcome negative behavior. It’s also important to give them ample exercise each day considering their high energy levels.
4. Vizsla
Average Top Speed: 40 mph
With a body made for long-distance running, often with an average speed of 40 mph, the Vizsla is a tireless sprinter. They have gorgeous red coats with shining amber eyes to match, which add to their appeal.
Bred for chasing upland games, Vizslas are hunting canines. They make sure to catch their game in record time!
3. German Shorthaired Pointer
Average Top Speed: 43 mph
Well-known for their spotted coats combined with a solid color on the head, the German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent hunter. They can reach up to 43 mph to reach their prey and never fail to catch them.
But not only are they good at hunting; these pups are amazing family pets, too. They get along well with humans and other pets in the household because of their mellow character.
2. German Pinscher
Average Top Speed: 33 mph
A courageous and intelligent breed, the German Pinscher is one of the fastest dog breeds with an average top speed of 33 mph. With their lean bodies and long legs, these pups are built for running.
Originally bred to chase and catch rodents, German Pinschers have the stamina and endurance for this challenge. And once you set them off to catch their target, they never disappoint.
1. Border Collie
Average Top Speed: 30 mph
Zippy and nimble, Border Collies are all about speed. These herd dogs are serious about getting their job done well, which is to make sure sheep and other cattle don’t wander off. They are always on the go and steering herds in the right direction. No wonder they’re fast and agile!
With a top speed of 30 mph, it’s not very easy to catch up with a Border Collie’s quick pace.
Related Questions
Can You Outrun A Dog? No, it is not possible. In fact, even Usain Bolt, the fastest runner alive, can never outrun a Greyhound. Bolt can run a 100-meter track for 9.58 seconds at 22.9 mph while a Greyhound can finish the same course in 5.33 seconds.
What Is The Slowest Dog In The World? Slow and steady, the Pug is the slowest dog in the world with an average top speed of 5 mph. Pretty sure anyone, especially kids, can outrun this little dog!
Do Small Dogs Run Faster Than Big Dogs? The average dog has a top speed of 19 mph, which is slower than long legged canines. Smaller dogs run even slower because their legs can’t simply keep up and move at a quicker pace as leggy ones.
