Meet the 15 Fastest Dog Breeds Before They Zip By

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 10–13 years
• Temperament: Gentle, Independent, Laidback 

Capable of reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour, Greyhounds are the fastest dogs on the planet. These svelte racers have a tall, lean body that is built for speed—but they’re also known to be couch potatoes at home. Give them a big, cushy bed for sprawling out after exercise.  

Greyhounds have the athletic ability for a range of canine sports, including agility, flyball, or lure coursing—which appeals to this sighthound’s natural inclination to chase prey. Because these dogs have a strong prey drive and super speed, it’s important to always exercise a greyhound in a secure, fenced area or on a leash. 

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 10–17 years
• Temperament: Composed, Gentle, Emotionally Intelligent

The Saluki is a speedy dog breed with a soft and gentle side. These dogs can be shy with strangers but will bond tightly to their favorite human.  

Salukis might have a short, smooth coat like a Greyhound, or a longer coat with feathering on the ears, tail, and legs. In either case, these dogs are the picture of elegance, but that doesn’t make them slowpokes: A Saluki can reach a top speed of around 40 miles per hour! 

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Athletic, Intelligent, Sensitive

The Whippet is a medium-size dog with a big need to run. These canine track stars are built for quick acceleration, thanks to long legs and a deep chest. Impressively, they can clock speeds at 35 miles per hour. 

Whippets make great running partners, and the breed’s more compact size means they adapt well to apartment living—as long as you give them enough daily exercise.  

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Independent, Loyal, Elegant

Afghan Hounds boast speed and sharp eyesight—key characteristics that made these dogs capable hunting companions in their homeland of Afghanistan. Because they often had to make quick decisions on the hunt, the breed is known for independent thinking, which is why patient, consistent training is important for an Afghan Hound. 

Aside from their speed, the Afghan Hound is a real showstopper in the looks department. Their silky coat is long and full, and requires daily brushing and regular baths (weekly to monthly depending on their needs) to look its best.

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Athletic, Courageous, Gentle

The sporty Vizsla is ready to be your next running partner. These dogs have an athletic build and a high drive, so they’re always ready to go. Lace up your sneakers and take your Vizsla for a 30-minute walk or jog a few times a day.  

Aside from plenty of physical exercise, these super-smart dogs need a mental workout, too. Because Vizslas are very devoted to their pet parents, you’ll find that these dogs are eager to learn new things and catch on quickly. 

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 9–14 years
• Temperament: Athletic, Elegant, Mellow

A description of the Borzoi reads like a model: tall and elegant with silky hair. But these dogs turn heads in more than one way—the blazing-fast Borzoi can reach speeds up to 40 miles per hour.  

A natural athlete, Borzoi dogs need a fenced area where they can sprint to their heart’s content. Afterward, these gentle giants love to relax with their favorite people. And although these large-breed dogs can weigh up to 105pounds, don’t be surprised if they want to share the couch with you. 

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Affectionate, Athletic, Sensitive

Dalmatian dogs are famous for their spots, but they’re also among the fastest dog breeds. These medium-size dogs demand daily exercise—and lots of it. Plan on one to two hours each day.  

The good news is that you have plenty of options to burn energy with your Dalmatian. These athletic dogs excel at many dog sports, and they’re also capable and flashy running partners.

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Fearless, Zestful, Vocal

For a small and fast dog breed, look no further than the spunky Jack Russell Terrier. These compact dogs are only about 1 foot tall, but they know how to turn up the speed—especially in a game of chase. 

Jack Russell Terriers are known for being in motion nearly all the time. These busybodies will need at least an hour of exercise, plus time spent on training, games, and playing with toys.

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Active, Loyal, Sweet

Doberman Pinschers have a strong drive, and these dogs are happiest when they have a job to do. Because of the dog’s athletic body structure, Dobermans thrive with at least an hour of exercise every day. 

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 10–13 years
• Temperament: Athletic, Sidekick, Silly

The Weimaraner was bred to cover large distances while hunting big game like wolves, bears, and mountain lions, so these dogs had a need for speed.  

Today, Weimaraners are more often picked as sporty partners for walking, jogging, and hiking. These dogs don’t mind life in the suburbs as long as they get an hour or two of exercise daily. Don’t forget to stay hydrated!

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Active, Confident, Genius 

Smart enough to outwit you and fast enough to outrun you, the Border Collie is another of the fastest dog breeds. But don’t let their smarts and speed intimidate you: Life with a Border Collie is full of fun and adventure.  

The key to success with a Border Collie is plenty of daily exercise, consistent training, and a job to do—even if that job is simply putting away her toys, solving a puzzle, or chasing a ball around the yard.

• Size: Large
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Brave, Heroic, Loyal

German Shepherds command attention with their stately appearance and unmistakable confidence. Whether they’re working, playing, or exploring, these agile dogs are quick on their feet—and can run as fast as 30 miles per hour. 

Being quick on their feet is just one reason German Shepherds are service dog superstars. The breed is also loyal and intelligent, which makes them first-rate family companions.  

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Cheeky, Outdoorsy, Social 

It’s no surprise to see these sled dogs listed among the fastest dog breeds. Even when they’re not pulling a sled, Siberian Huskies love to run. For that reason, these dogs might be tempted to escape from the house or backyard, so always keep a close eye on them.  

Fulfill a Husky’s need for speed with a daily run or canine sports that tap into his natural abilities, like agility or skijoring. Remember that these double-coated dogs don’t handle hot weather very well, so plan outdoor activities for the coolest part of the day during summer months. 

• Size: Medium
• Lifespan: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Smarty Pants, Adaptable, Joyful 

The curly-coated Standard Poodle earns a spot on the list of fastest dog breeds despite its fancy reputation. These dogs can turn on the jets and reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour.  

Combined with the breed’s agility, Poodles are exceptionally versatile when it comes to outdoor activities or dog sports. They make great running partners; excel at agility trials and nose work; and often love dock diving or hunting.  

• Size: Small
• Lifespan: 14–15 years
• Temperament: Alert, Dainty, Sweet

In a race, don’t count out the small but zippy Italian Greyhound. These dogs may be petite, but they have the same physique as Greyhounds, which is the fastest dog on the planet. The long legs, deep chest, and slender body help the Italian Greyhound reach maximum speeds of 25 miles per hour. 

Interestingly, these dainty dynamo dogs only need about an hour of exercise each day. They thrive with a mix of physical exertion—like neighborhood walks or fetch in a fenced yard—and brain games such as nose work or training.