Because dogs are so varied as far as their body types, leg lengths and physical stamina tolerances it is difficult to get a good number as far as how fast the average dog is. The most general consensus is that dogs can typically run a mile in about 8-10 minutes and elite level dogs can run that same distance in about 3-4 minutes. Each breed is going to be varied is now fast they can run and for how long, which is why it is never a good idea to put a dog on a motorized treadmill set to a speed that you think looks right. Some dogs can achieve great speeds for very short periods of time but cannot sustain that speed very long. Others prefer to go at a slow and steady pace for long time frames. Your dog’s breed, physical stature, age and level of health will determine how fast they can run or walk. On average, some breeds run faster than others. Here is a list of the fastest dog breeds, every one of which runs faster than the fastest human being on earth.
The fastest dogs and their speeds are:
- Greyhounds, running with a top speed of 45 miles per hour
- Salukis, with a speed of 42 miles per hour
- Afghan Hounds who have a top speed of 40 miles per hour
- Vizslas, who can reach speeds of 40 miles per hour
- Jack Russells, with a speed of 38 miles per hour
- Dalmatians, who can run up to 37 miles per hour
- Borzois, a breed that can run up to 36 miles per hour
- Whippets, which can reach speeds of 35 miles per hour
- Doberman Pinschers, with a top speed of 32 miles per hour
- Border Collies, who have a top speed of 30 miles per hour
- Poodles, with a top speed of 30 miles per hour
- German Shepherds who can run up to 30 miles per hour
- Scottish Deerhounds, with a speed of 28 miles per hour
- Giant Schnauzers, who can run up to 28 miles per hour
If you are interested, here is a list of the slowest dog breeds.
