Ready. Set. Go! Dogs are not just good companions for the lonely or playmates for kids. Some of these dogs are ultra-fast; they move like lightning from one place to another. Their bodies have been built for agility, stamina, speed, and endurance.
These dog breeds will amaze you with how quickly they can bring back a Frisbee or a ball. Moreover, these dogs tend to do very well in local running races. These speedy canine companions leave everyone’s mouths open while their legs race from one place to another.
In this article, we’ve listed 9 of the fastest dog breeds. So, sit down, buckle up, and prepare to be amazed by how fast these dogs move. If you’re a dog owner or you just like fast things, this article will satisfy your thirst for speedy dogs!
Dog Breeds That Compete In Local Running Races
1. Greyhound
The Greyhound is renowned for its speed and grace. These dogs are tall with a lean build. They have an inverted S-shaped body, a deep chest, a long muzzle, straight forelegs, and muscular hindquarters, as noted by Britannica.
Greyhounds have an average height of 27-29 inches (for females) and 28-30 inches (for males). They can weigh up to 60-65 pounds (females) and 65-70 pounds (males). This running dog breed has a short and smooth, non-hypoallergenic coat that comes in thirty different colors.
The Fastest Dog
As the Usain Bolt of the dog world, the Greyhound is the best dog breed for racing competitions. It has a top speed of 45 miles per hour.
It is also one of the best dogs for families as it is quite affectionate and gentle. Therefore, if you enjoy running with your dog, a Greyhound is great for you.
2. Saluki
Also known as the “Royal Dog of Egypt”, the Saluki is one of the oldest hunting hound breeds. It is a medium-sized breed with a symmetrical body. Their average weight is 40-65 pounds. A Saluki’s average life span is 10-17 years.
Male Salukis are 23-28 inches tall, while females are considerably smaller, as noted by the AKC. They have long, narrow heads and silky ears. They have a smooth, short coat that requires moderate grooming.
High Energy Dog Suited for Families
Salukis are a high-energy breed with strong prey instincts. They are best-suited for active families as they make great running partners.
These dogs can run as fast as 43 miles per hour. They have incredible endurance, maintaining their top speed over long distances of running.
3. Border Collie
Border Collies were originally bred to herd livestock. They are muscular, agile dogs. It is slightly longer than it is tall. Both males and females of this athletic breed weigh around 30-55 pounds. The average life expectancy for a Border Collie is 12-15 years.
An Athletic and Energetic Breed
Border Collies are extremely energetic, obedient, and smart. They are highly trainable.
These working dogs require tons of physical activity and mental stimulation. Once they’ve had their fill, they are happy to spend family time.
They can run up to 30 miles/48 kilometers per hour. Although they love long-distance running, they shouldn’t do it every day as it will exhaust them.
4. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are tall, silky sighthound breeds. Due to their elegant appearance, they have been famous amongst celebrity circles. Just like other sighthounds, they are tall and slender with a curved waist.
Afghan Hounds are medium-to-large dogs. They weigh about 50-60 pounds and stand at 25-27 inches tall. Their average life span is 12-18 years.
Perfect Breed for Short Bursts of Running
Afghan Hounds can run up to 75 kilometers or 46 miles per hour. They are great at running short distances. They enjoy canine sports such as lure coursing.
They are intelligent and loyal family pets. While they are eager to please, they are difficult to train. However, if one is consistent and provides proper training, these playful, high-energy dogs become great running companions.
5. Great Dane
The Great Dane is a German dog breed that was initially bred for hunting deer and wild boars. They are one of the tallest dog breeds, reaching up to 28-30 (females) or 30-32 inches (males). Males weigh about 140-175 pounds, and females weigh about 110-140 pounds.
They have an average life span of 7-10 years. Their coat is smooth and short and requires monthly grooming. They are best trained with positive reinforcement methods.
A Mild-Mannered Breed for Dog Lovers
Although it is huge, the Great Dane is a very friendly and affectionate dog. They do well in warm weather because of their lean build, low energy levels, and large ears.
A Great Dane’s average speed is 30 miles per hour. They are great at running short distances, but they can be trained to cover long distances as well.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
A small dog on the list, the Jack Russell Terrier, was originally used for fox hunting in England, as cited by PetMD. The average height varies from 12-15 inches. It weighs about 13-17 pounds. The Jack Russell Terrier is a generally healthy breed that is good for running short to medium distances.
Best Dog Breed of Boundless Energy
The Jack Russell Terrier is known for its high energy and marvelous intelligence. This dog requires vigorous exercise, making it a great addition to owners with an active lifestyle. Its average speed is 25 miles per hour. Therefore, it is one of the best running companions.
If its daily exercise quota is not complete, it may start barking or digging excessively. They have a strong prey drive and might bolt at the sight of any small animals. Therefore, leash training is a good option.
7. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the US. According to the American Kennel Club, females can weigh 50-70 pounds, and males weigh around 65-90 pounds. Similarly, males have an average height of 24-26 inches, while females are 22-24 inches tall.
German Shepherds are working dogs commonly used for military and police work. They have an average life span of 7-10 years and make vigilant watchdogs.
Best Dog Breed for Running Long Distances
They are quick, agile, muscular, and intelligent. They have an average speed of 30-32 miles per hour. They are well-suited for human runners who want a long-distance running companion.
They are confident and brave. They make excellent furry friends for families, but are wary of strangers.
German Shepherds respond best to positive reinforcement and should not be kept off-leash as they have a high prey drive and might run after a cat, squirrel, or car.
8. Whippet
The Whippet is a sleek and slim hound breed. It has a deep chest, an elongated neck, strong, graceful legs, and a small waist. They weigh about 25-40 pounds. Males are slightly taller, standing at 19-22 inches, while females stand at 18-21 inches.
They love warmer climates as their thin coat and low body fat make it easier for them not to get overheated. They have an average life span of 12-15 years.
An Ideal Dog Breed for Long-Distance Jogging
They have an average speed of 35 miles per hour. This makes them excellent running dogs. They are great sprinters and long-distance runners.
However, they don’t always like moving. After their physical and mental activities are done, they enjoy lounging on the couch. They are incredibly alert and have a goofy, playful temperament.
9. Siberian Husky
Well–suited to cold weather, the Siberian Husky is known for its unique looks and friendly temperament. They were originally used for pulling sleds at a steady pace. They have an average life span of 12-14 years. They have a wolf-like face and ocean-blue eyes.
Due to their thick fur, they are habituated to cold weather. Therefore, it is important to keep them out of very hot weather and stick to colder climates, especially for their running training.
The Ideal Jogging Companion
Another great running dog, the Siberian Husky’s speed can reach up to 30 miles per hour. They love safe trail running and make both you and your family fit. This is because it’s a high-energy dog breed that isn’t satisfied until its regular exercise need is fulfilled.
Because of their friendly nature, WebMD suggests they aren’t the best dog breeds for guarding your house.
Since they thrive on human companionship, they shouldn’t be left alone for too long.
Conclusion
Most dogs are fast, but the dogs on our list are incredibly speedy! You blink and they are gone. Huskies are famous for running half marathons, while other dogs, such as the Whippet, are great for sprinting. Whatever your running style, you’ll easily find a dog that suits your needs.
In the above list, we have narrowed down the nine best dog breeds that make excellent running partners. Not all dogs can challenge you in the way the Greyhound or Husky can. Yes, your Golden Retriever will make an excellent family pet, but if you want a fast-running partner, take another look at these breeds.
