Keen to find out which are the fastest dog breeds in the world? Well, you're in luck because we've got the full list for you right here!
While most pups are capable of cracking along at a good pace when they hear their food bowl being refilled in the other room, some breeds are faster than others.
The dogs you'll find below are able to reach anywhere from a respectable speed of 20mph to a downright impressive 45mph. And although they're all super quick, not all of them need tons of exercise each day – in fact some of them even feature in our round up of low-energy dog breeds.
Whether you're after an active exercise buddy who can match your pace on the trails or you want a companion who'll be happy with a short run around in the park, you'll find plenty of pups to choose from below. Ready to meet the fastest dog breeds? On your marks....get set....go!
32 fastest dog breeds
1. Greyhound
With a top speed of approximately 45mph, the greyhound is the canine kingdom's champion sprinter. While they're not an endurance athlete, they are outstanding dogs when it comes to short, high-speed pursuits.
Graceful and lean, greyhounds also have beautiful natures with a reputation for being incredibly sweet-tempered. Affectionate and deeply sensitive, they do best in quiet and calm homes, and as long as they get around 60 minutes of exercise a day, they'll be quite happy to spend the remaining hours catching up on their beauty sleep.
2. Catahoula Leopard Dog
While they've been known to tie with the greyhound at times in terms of speed, more often they clock in just a little bit behind at around 42mph – which is still pretty darn impressive! The state dog of Louisiana (where it originated), the Catahoula Leopard Dog is instantly recognizable thanks to its varied coat and eye color pattern.
They are loyal and watchful dogs who were bred to work and work they do, everything from rounding up stock to guarding property. But when they're not on the clock, the Catahoula Leopard Dog makes for a playful and affectionate companion.
3. Saluki
When it comes to long-haired dog breeds that are worthy of being in a shampoo commercial, the saluki is top of the list. However, this ancient dog breed isn't just about beauty, they have some serious speed in them too, with an ability to race around at up to 42mph.
A swift and agile pup with a dignified and gentle nature, saluki's are independent-minded so training them can take time, patience and consistency.
4. Sloughi
Another dog capable of reaching 42mph, the Sloughi is a reserved and graceful hunting breed that originated in the Middle East. Although calm at home, they have a high prey drive that's quick to come out in the great outdoors, so keeping them on a leash is essential if you don't want them chasing after everything in sight.
A graceful dog who's gentle and sensitive with loved ones but aloof with strangers, the Sloughi needs several hours of exercise each day.
5. Afghan Hound
With a top running speed of 40mph, the Afghan Hound has one of those long, silky coats that definitely puts them in the high-maintenance dog breeds category! They are extremely dignified and elegant dogs, and while they can be aloof with strangers, they tend to be sweet and loving with those they know well.
An outstanding hunting breed that targets small game, the Afghan Hound has a high prey drive and needs plenty of exercise each day to keep them happy and healthy.
6. Viszla
Vizslas have a top speed of 40mph, so while they're not quite the fastest dog breed in the world, they're certainly up there. This hunting dog excels at retrieving waterfowl and because of their outstanding stamina, they make wonderful exercise buddies.
Gentle, loving, and great with children, they are fantastic family dogs and form very strong and deep bonds with their humans.
7. Whippet
The fastest dogs in their weight class, whippets can reach speeds of up to 35mph. Related to the greyhound, this sighthound is playful yet calm and they have a very sweet temperament.
One of the best dogs for seniors thanks to their cuddly personality and low exercise needs, the whippet makes for a gentle and loving companion. Whippets rarely bark, so they're also a great choice if you live in an apartment or are simply looking for a quiet and chilled-out buddy to have around the home.
8. Jack Russell Terrier
They may be tiny, but the mighty Jack Russell Terrier can zoom along at an impressive 38mph! One of the smartest dog breeds on the block, this lively and fearless little pup is always on alert and has a delightfully curious nature.
Eager and tireless, the Jack Russell Terrier is a high-spirited companion who's always up for an adventure. Because they have so much energy and confidence, this terrier can get into mischief when they're bored, so be sure to give them plenty of mental and physical stimulation to keep them out of trouble.
9. Dalmatian
With a black and white spotted coat that inspired the hit film 101 Dalmatians, this is one dog that's instantly recognizable. An athletic pup of great stamina, the Dalmatian's top speed is 37mph and they'll certainly try and reach this if given half a chance!
Dalmatians need at least two hours of exercise a day, so this is a dog best suited to those with a very active lifestyle. Happy, playful, sensitive, and loving, they're a great choice for families who can meet the needs of this energetic canine.
10. Borzoi
Capable of running at speeds of up to 35mph, the large and elegant borzoi is a graceful pup originally bred for hunting. A member of the hound group, they have a very distinctively shaped head and are both strong and agile.
Known for their graceful nature and sweet temperament, they crave human companionship but can be aloof with strangers. While they are athletic and are known for being great sprinting dogs, they are not particularly high-energy and prefer short bursts of exercise.
11. Doberman pinscher
The doberman pinscher is a confident dog known for it's fearless and watchful nature. Powerful dogs that tend to run at speeds of between 25–30mph (although they've been known to go as fast as 35mph), they are fiercely loyal and are outstanding protectors.
Dobermans are highly affectionate and they adore children, however their high intelligence levels mean they are known for being stubborn, so you'll need plenty of patience and positive reinforcement when it comes to training them.
12. Ibizan Hound
When they put their mind to it, the Ibizan Hound can zip along at speeds of up to 40mph. Hailing from the sunny island of Ibiza, this lean and agile dog is wonderfully even-tempered and family-oriented, making them a fantastic companion to have in the home.
Super lovey-dovey, they get along famously with humans and other dogs so they're a great fit for most families. However, just be warned that they love to sprint and leap around, and because of that, they're best suited to rural areas as opposed to cities and towns.
13. Weimaraner
An energetic dog who can attain speeds of 35mph, the Weimaraner originated in the city of Weimar in Germany and its loving and loyal temperament has made it a popular family pet.
Affectionately referred to as Velcro dogs because of how much they stick to their humans, the Weimaraner is easy to pick out in a crowd thanks to its steel grey coat and soulful eyes.
Incredibly intelligent, they're known for getting into mischief when their owner's backs are turned so you'll want to keep your wits about you if you plan on welcoming one of these fearless pups into your family.
14. German Pinscher
While they may look very similar to the doberman pinscher, the German Pinscher is a different breed. Courageous and vivacious, they can reach speeds of 33mph and have extremely high levels of energy.
Highly intelligent, they can be trained to do all sorts of work and love a challenge, so when you're having downtime at home, be sure to have a few of the best dog puzzle toys on hand to give their brain a good mental workout. Cheerful yet fearless, this is a bright and alert dog who loves being with their humans.
15. Pharaoh Hound
When it comes to dog breeds that can't get enough playtime, the fun-loving Pharaoh Hound definitely makes the list! A sleek and dynamic dog with outstanding sprinting abilities (they can reach speeds of 35mph), the Pharaoh Hound was bred to hunt small game over rocky terrain.
Elegant and graceful with a regal appearance, they have an incredibly statuesque presence that makes them hard to miss. Friendly and social, they love the company of adults and other dogs and their high energy levels mean they're a good choice for dog lovers who lead an active lifestyle.
16. Border Collie
Border Collies can comfortably clock speeds of 30mph and their outstanding herding abilities make them one of the best dog breeds for life on the farm.
Eager to please, the Border Collie is known for being even-tempered and super intelligent, which makes them an absolute dream to train. Loyal and faithful, they make wonderful companions but they need constant mental and physical stimulation to ensure they thrive.
17. German Shepherd
Able to hit speeds of 30–32mph in short sprints, the athletic German Shepherd has a work ethic that's hard to match – no wonder they're so often recruited to serve as police dogs! Courageous, confident, and highly trainable, they love to learn and are extremely dedicated.
The German Shepherd tends to be gentle with children and other animals but their protective instincts mean they are often very wary of strangers. They are wonderful dogs to have in the home but they need owners who can devote a lot of time and energy to them as their need for both mental and physical stimulation is high.
18. Australian Shepherd
Reaching speeds of up to 30mph when they're sprinting, the Australian Shepherd is a breed of herding dog, who despite their name, actually originated in California! Often referred to as the cowboy's canine of choice, the Aussie Shepherd is a hardworking pup of remarkable intelligence.
In fact, they're so smart that they have a habit of hoodwinking novice owners who aren't prepared for just how bright these dogs can be. Affectionate, sociable, and devoted, they adore children and make wonderful family pets for those able to meet their physical and mental needs.
19. Standard poodle
When it comes to training your dog on your own, you'll have no problem with a poodle as this breed is well known for being the brainiac of the canine kingdom.
Smart as well as fast (they can run at 30mph), the standard poodle is a noble dog with a kind and friendly personality. Always on the go, they like being challenged both physically and mentally, and they make great playmates for children.
20. Italian Greyhound
While not quite as fast as a standard greyhound, the smaller Italian Greyhound can still whip along at speeds of up to 37mph. This lightning-quick little dog has a mischievous temperament and because they're so affectionate, they're always up for a cuddle with their favorite human.
Despite their delicate appearance, the Italian Greyhound is a hardy dog with a lifespan of 15 years if they remain healthy and well cared for.
21. Great Dane
A gentle giant with a heart of gold, the Great Dane is a patient and dependable dog who stands at around 32 inches tall and can weigh up to 175 pounds. Able to break out speeds of around 30mph, they need around two hours of exercise a day but as long as they get that, they are very calm and quiet companions.
Great with people and loving to all, they are loyal, amiable, and even-tempered, making them a good choice for families with children and other pets.
22. Siberian Husky
One of the best dog breeds for cold climates, the Siberian Husky was bred to be a sled dog and can run up to 30mph. A hardworking pup of great endurance, the Siberian Husky has a mischievous and playful temperament and is known for being curious and independent.
Because of this independence streak and their high intelligence levels, training them can sometimes be a challenge, but with patience and persistence, you'll be rewarded with a friendly and sociable companion.
23. German Shorthaired Pointer
An energetic and powerful dog of outstanding stamina, the German Shorthaired Pointer can reach a top running speed of between 26–30mph.
They're enthusiastic gun dogs and highly affectionate companions who are happiest when they have a job to do. Because of their excellent endurance, they make fantastic workout buddies, and they get along beautifully with children, bonding deeply with all members of their human family.
24. Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel has always been a firm favorite when it comes to hunting dogs. A gun dog bred primarily for flushing, pointing, and retrieving birds, they are a lively and upbeat breed with a keen work ethic.
Capable of running at a speed of 25mph, the Brittany Spaniel is fun-loving, bright and does best in families who adore the outdoors as much as they do.
25. Shiba Inu
They may not be as fast as a greyhound, but the Shiba Inu can still sprint along at 25mph when they put their mind to it. A Japanese breed that was used to flush out game, the Shiba Inu has adorable foxy features and a strong and confident nature.
Because they have a strong prey drive and can be very territorial and independent, they do best with an experienced owner who can meet their needs. Their dominant streak means they need strong boundaries but as long as you're prepared to put in the work, you'll find that your Shiba rewards you by being a devoted and playful companion.
26. Basenji
A compact and athletic dog that originated in Central Africa, the sweet-faced basenji is an ancient breed with a graceful appearance. Incredibly agile and able to jump vertically with ease, they can reach speeds of 30mph and are very high-energy.
Because they get bored when not active, basenjis need plenty of exercise outdoors and plenty of toys indoors to keep them occupied when you're too busy to entertain them. Fastidious about cleanliness (they groom themselves like a cat!), they are quiet and poised dogs who are highly companionable with their owners but not over-the-top affectionate.
27. Icelandic Sheepdog
Native to Iceland where they have been used for centuries to herd sheep and cattle, the Icelandic Sheepdog is a charming dog who makes a truly faithful friend. Sweet-natured and always eager to please, they have beautiful temperaments which, coupled with their high levels of intelligence and outstanding work ethic, make them a popular choice of pet in their homeland.
Affectionate and loyal, they want to be wherever their humans are, but they also need to be able to zoom around at 22mph and burn off their energy, so they require an active lifestyle in order to be happy.
28. Australian Cattle Dog
Originating in Australia where it has been used to drive cattle across vast areas of the outback, the Australian Cattle Dog is a medium-sized dog of immense strength who is capable of running at 20mph.
Hardworking, intelligent, and loyal, they thrive on having a job to do and dislike being separated from their owners. Affectionate with those they love but somewhat cautious around strangers, this is a dog that needs to be kept active, so they're best suited to farm life or an owner who does a lot of physical activity each day.
29. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hailing from South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large and muscular dog capable of running at 30mph. They have outstanding stamina and endurance and need plenty of mental and physical stimulation each day to keep both their body and mind in good shape.
However, while they are highly athletic, they're also wonderfully gentle and bond very deeply with their human family. Very even-tempered and patient, the Rhodesian Ridgeback makes a faithful friend and playmate for children.
30. Alaskan Malamute
Like the Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute was originally bred to haul heavy freight as a sled dog across vast distances. While not as fast as the smaller Siberian Husky, this large breed is still capable of clocking speeds of 20mph, which is pretty impressive given their solid build.
Friendly dogs who see most strangers as a potential best buddy in the making, the Alaskan Malamute is incredibly affectionate and playful and they make outstanding family companions. Just be mindful that they can be stubborn, so it can take some time to train them.
31. Boston Terrier
Always dressed in their Sunday best, the jaunty Boston Terrier can push themselves to reach speeds of 24mph on a good day. One of the friendliest dog breeds, the Boston Terrier is a fantastic choice for families looking for a happy and affectionate pet.
Nicknamed the American Gentleman, this breed gets along with just about everyone, and children in particular will enjoy their lively and active nature.
32. Beagle
While they may be smaller than many of the other dogs on this list, the merry beagle can still trot along at 20mph when it sees something that captures its attention.
A lovable dog with a happy-go-lucky nature, it's hard not to fall in love with a beagle. Brave and affectionate, they always want to be in on the action and because they're so sociable and mischievous, they're a true joy to have in the home.
Want to learn about more athletic dogs? We’ve rounded up the highest jumping dogs!
