These 31 Super-Fast Dog Breeds Are So Quick, It's Almost Im-Paw-Sible To Believe

The kind of dog you choose really depends on what you're looking for in a pet pup. Do you want a cuddly cutie who will be your snuggle partner on the couch? Then, look into the most affectionate breeds. If you prefer a loyal dog with a natural protective instinct, check out the best guard dogs. But if it's a hiking, running or biking buddy you're looking for, you may want to consider any one of the 31 fastest dog breeds.

The fastest dogs in the world fall into three main categories: hounds, sport and hunting dogs. While other groups like non-sporting, herding, terrier and toy are also represented in some of the fastest breeds, for the most part, the dogs with lightning-fast racer qualities tend to be dogs known to chase, hunt and catch. And for good reason!

Here are 31 of the fastest dog breeds that will sprint circles around you.

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31 Fastest Dog Breeds in the World

1. Greyhound

We all know that Greyhounds are fast—like, really fast. After all, they have been bred as racing dogs for decades. But did you know they're actually the fastest dog in the world? According to Psychology Today, the Greyhound (pictured above) can reach speeds similar to those of a cheetah. Within its first six strides, it can reach a speed of 45 miles per hour (mph). That unmatched ability makes Greyhounds the fastest breed of dog on Earth!

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2. Saluki

It's no wonder the Saluki is the second fastest dog breed in the world. Upon first glance, you can tell it's made for speed. After all, they are built similarly to Greyhounds.

Saluki males are generally 23 to 28 inches tall with an average weight of 40 to 65 pounds. Lean in stature and independent in nature, Salukis were once sought by kings to do their hunting because they were so agile and able to hunt by sight rather than scent, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). That's not all that's impressive: Salukis also run at about 45 mph.

3. Vizsla

The Vizsla is tied with the Afghan Hound for the third-fastest breed. When running, it can reach up to about 40 miles per hour. Because of their extreme speeds, Vizslas have been bred for hunting and upland games for decades. As a breed, they've honed their hunting instincts and are exceptionally trainable. Also known for their golden-red coats and amber eyes, Vizslas are the pride of Hungary; Hungarian huntsmen have been using them for sport for years.

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4. Afghan Hound

As quick-paced as the Vizsla, Afghan Hounds are one of the oldest breeds around. So, it's no wonder they've figured out a thing or two about running... and fast! You may recognize Afghans from their long, almost human-like hair. Although they are very pretty, you shouldn't be fooled by their graceful look. They're also insanely fast, reaching speeds of up to 40 mph.

5. Ibizan Hound

According to Spoiled Hounds, Ibizan Hounds have been around since 3400 BC when they were first brought to Egypt in the eighth century. Egyptians trained Ibizan hounds to hunt rabbits, which they're still used for today. After all, rabbits are quick little sprinters, who can run anywhere from 25 to 45 mph.

To be able to catch a rabbit, Ibizan Hounds would have to be just as fast—and they certainly are. They're not just quick, either; these dogs can reportedly jump up to six feet in the air from a standing position.

6. Whippet

The Whippet's name sounds fast for good reason. According to the AKC—which describes the dog breed as "lightning fast"—the Whippet is also part of the sighthound family, as are the breeds mentioned above. With a body of inverted S-lines and long, arched and slim features, the Whippet can run up to 34 miles per hour.

7. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russells were originally bred as working dogs, thanks to their instinct to hunt. And not just any kind of hunting instinct—Jack Russells are exceptionally good at hunting for prey underground.

To hunt underground, a dog must be able to run quickly to keep up with whatever may be scampering below the surface. Sure, they make amazing family dogs, but Jack Russell Terriers might be difficult to track down if they ever decide to run away. After all, they can hit speeds up to 38 mph.

8. Dalmatian

Also known for their great guard dogging, Dalmatians have long legs that like to stretch out. They were initially bred as" coach dogs"—dogs with the now defunct job of trotting alongside a carriage or coach to protect them from burglars or other assailants. Because Dalmatians had to be able to keep up with these vehicles, they had to be fast. How fast? Dalmatians can run up to 37 mph.

9. Borzoi

Similar in look to the other sighthounds on this list, the Borzoi is a Russian wolfhound that was bred during the 17th century. Described by the AKC as "agreeable," "loyal" and "regally dignified," it's not entirely clear how fast a Borzoi can run. The AKC reports Borzoi speeds anywhere from 35 to 40 mph, but other sources cap their speed at 36. Are they truly faster than Dalmatians, Jack Russells and maybe even the Whippet? Only time will tell...

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10. Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is another breed associated with speed. Why? This working dog has a body that's literally built for running. Paired with brains to boot, one of the most distinguished features of a Doberman's temperament is his fearlessness. That fearlessness might just be one of the things that enables a Doberman to move so sharply and athletically. On average, they are capable of reaching a top speed of 35 mph.

11. Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is certainly not a small dog, but its large size doesn't stop this breed from hightailing it around the dog park. Running as fast as 35 mph, Weimaraners are hunting dogs with excellent track records of hunting big game: boar, deer and even bear.

12. Pharaoh Hound

Surprise, surprise—another hound! The Pharaoh Hound is no average hunting dog. Standing at about 24 inches tall and weighing an average of 50+ pounds, this breed got its name from sprinting after small game at about 35 mph.

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13. German Pinscher

Not to be confused with the Doberman Pinscher (although these breeds are indeed very similar), the German Pinscher reaches speeds of about 33 mph. Described by the AKC as "courageous," "intelligent" and "vivacious," these dogs were once used to chase (and of course, catch!) rats. If that doesn't say something about its speed, we don't know what does.

14. Border Collie

Border Collies are herding dogs that have historically taken care of sheep and other livestock. To whip the herds into shape, they were required to run alongside them, steering and moving them in the farmer's desired direction. Since a Border Collie can run as fast as 30 mph, that's no problem for this energetic breed.

15. German Shepherd

German Shepherds are incredible guard dogs that aren't known for giving up. In fact, they are vigilant dogs with a high level of intelligence that is only rivaled by their speed and of course, physical beauty. Also characterized as a working dog, the German Shepherd is agile, muscular and big. This loyal giant can run at about 30 mph, too, so you wouldn't want to be chased by this breed. This is probably why they are utilized heavily by the police and military.

16. Standard Poodle

You may not have guessed it, but the Standard Poodle isn't just pretty to look at. Sure, poodles may have some overwhelming curls, but like the Afghan Hound, their looks shouldn't take away from their athletic capabilities. Standard Poodles have been known to run at a fast pace—up to 30 mph. After all, they were originally duck hunters.

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17. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds do the same job as the Border Collie: protect and herd. These working dogs need daily exercise to get all their energy out and can do so at speeds of up to 30 mph.

18. Great Dane

Known for their great height—approximately 32 inches from the ground to the shoulder—the speed of Great Danes is often overlooked. But it shouldn't be. Able to sprint with the best of them, the Great Dane can reach 30 mph (even though they weigh upwards of 150 pounds)!

19. Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound may be significantly smaller than his other Greyhound friends, but he's speedy quick! When running, Italian Greyhounds—also affectionately called "Iggys"—kick the dust up behind them at 30 mph. But when not exercising, these small pups are known for curling up on the couch.

20. German Shorthaired Pointers

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a sporting breed that was originally developed in the 17th century. These hunting dogs are known for their unique spotted coats and can reach a top speed of 30 mph when in pursuit. Germain Shorthaired Pointers also interact well with other dogs and humans, making them affectionate family pets.

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21. Siberian Husky

Huskies are known for running in the Iditarod—a yearly dogsled race from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska. The race, which covers 1,161 miles of treacherous terrain (consisting of ice and snow), is completed by teams of Huskies that run up to 125 miles per day.
With each Husky able to run about 28 mph, teams race for up to six hours at a time, pulling a sled (and a person!) the entire way.

Of course, Huskies don't run at their full 28 mph the whole time; it's more like 10 to 12 mph during the race (according to Psychology Today). This energetic, too-smart-for-its-own-good dog breed certainly doesn't get enough credit for just how fast they really are.

22. Rat Terrier

As their name implies, Rat Terriers were originally developed for "ratting" or chasing away rats. Also known as "vermin hunters," these little dogs can run as fast as 27 mph (despite their tiny size).

23. Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel is an easily trainable breed that loves swimming. They also make for a great hunting partner due to their natural speed and agility. On average, this breed is capable of reaching a top speed of 25 mph.

24. Pit Bull Mixes

It's true! They may have a reputation as aggressive guard dogs, but Pitties—which is really just a catch-all term for American Staffordshire Terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers and other mixes—can also run really, really fast. Reaching anywhere from 25 to 27 mph—depending on the source you consult!—Pits are part of the terrier group of dog breeds.

25. Shiba Inu 

Aside from Siberian Huskies, the Shiba Inu is perhaps the only other snow dog to make this list. Known to sprint as fast as 25 mph, Shiba Inus resemble foxes and, well, run almost as fast.

26. Basenji

The Basenji can run as fast as 25 mph and was originally bred as a vermin hunter. But despite their quick speeds, Basenjis are small, so they don't need a vast amount of space. They allegedly adapt well to apartment life, as well.

27. Icelandic Sheepdog 

The Icelandic Sheepdog's name gives away just how ancient a breed it truly is. Dating back to the 9th century, these lovable dogs have been around for centuries, herding cattle and sheep at speeds of up to 22 mph.

28. Beagle 

The Beagle is smaller than some of the larger (and faster) sprinters on our list. Don't let this fool you, though. These scent hounds are really quick and can chase game at speeds approaching 20 mph.

29. Boston Terrier 

Boston Terriers have earned the adorable nickname "America's Gentleman," strictly because of their appearance. But did you know this tuxedo-coated breed is actually quite fast? These little guys will zip around your backyard at up to 18 mph, so good luck catching them!

30. Papillon

Although they may be tiny, Papillions are mighty. Well, at least when it comes to speed. You might have a hard time catching a Papillon, either in your yard or around your house, since they can reach up to 18 mph. Apart from that, though, they're pretty low-key dogs (as long as they've tired themselves out from running).

31. Australian Terrier

Another nimble vermin hunter is the Australian Terrier, which is capable of reaching a top speed of 18 mph. They're also known to be effective watchdogs with affectionate dispositions toward their owners and other family members.

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