Over the last few centuries, certain types of dogs have been bred for hunting and racing purposes. But many of these speedy breeds make great pets as well! Are you looking for an active, energetic canine who loves to run?
Check out this list of 10 of the fastest dog breeds:
1: Greyhound
Greyhounds make up the fastest dog breed in the world. In fact, according to the Minnesota chapter of Greyhound Pets of America, these canines can run up to 45 miles per hour! Though greyhounds love to sprint, they’re actually quite calm when they’re at home. This gentle giant can make the perfect pet for an active family with older, more mellow kids.
2: Saluki
This medium-sized dog was bred in the Middle East for chasing fast prey. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), salukis are very active, so it’s best if they live somewhere that has a large, fenced-in area where they are free to run and romp.
3: Afghan Hound
The Afghan hound is one of the oldest known dog breeds in the world. In fact, this breed is thought to date back thousands of years! Though Afghan hounds have an elegant appearance, they have quite a silly personality.
4: Vizsla
According to the AKC, this medium-sized dog is active, affectionate and gentle. Bred in Hungary for pointing and retrieving, a vizsla can make the perfect pet for an energetic family.
5: German Shepherd
The German shepherd is the second most popular dog breed in the world. Though these fiercely loyal canines are often used as police and military dogs, they make fantastic pets. If you’re thinking of adding one to your family, be sure to remember that German shepherds need lots of room for exercise and play.
6: Dalmatian
The super-active Dalmatian is known as both a fire dog and a popular pet. If you’re on the hunt for an intelligent canine that loves to exercise, look no further! Dalmatians have a high endurance level, which makes them ideal running companions.
7: Borzoi
Also known as a Russian wolfhound, the borzoi was bred to hunt wolves. Though these regal, dignified canines make great family dogs, they can also be quite independent. If you decide to add a borzoi to your family, be sure to provide him with plenty of room to partake in his favorite activity: sprinting.
8: Whippet
A descendant of the greyhound, the whippet is a fast, playful, mellow and loyal dog. These qualities make the whippet a great family pet.
9: Scottish Deerhound
Though the sweet, intelligent Scottish deerhound might look like a fuzzy mutt, this is not the case! These canines were actually bred in Scotland for deer hunting. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect family dog, look no further than this gentle and affectionate breed. After one look at that big, goofy face, you’ll be smitten.
10: Jack Russell Terrier
The smallest entry in this list of the fastest dog breeds is the Jack Russell terrier. These playful working dogs, which were bred to hunt foxes, love to be the center of attention. Named after an English clergyman, the Jack Russell makes a perfect family pet. Best of all, these canine companions tend to live long, healthy lives.
Margie Mars is the mother of eight, Oma of three and owner of a chocolate Lab with OCD. She writes for several top parenting sites on family, pet and health topics, and specializes in attachment parenting and autism. Margie lives with her family in Oregon.
