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On Melbourne Cup Day, the whole country stops to watch horses thunder down the straight. The dog world has its own speed stars. Some breeds can hit speeds that would leave most people standing still. Here are the fastest dog breeds you might meet in Australia, and what makes them so quick.
The sprint champions
1. Greyhound
The Greyhound is the fastest dog breed in the world. At full stretch, it can reach up to around 70 km/h. A long, flexible spine, deep chest, lean muscle and long legs let it cover huge ground with every stride. Off the track, many Greyhounds are gentle couch lovers who happily sleep for most of the day.
2. Saluki
The Saluki is one of the oldest known dog breeds. It was bred to chase game across open desert, so it pairs speed with serious stamina. Where a Greyhound shines in a short sprint, a Saluki can keep going over longer distances.
3. Whippet
Think of the Whippet as a smaller Greyhound. It can reach up to around 55 km/h and accelerates very quickly. Whippets are affectionate, quiet at home and well suited to families who enjoy a daily run at the park.
4. Afghan Hound
Under all that glamorous hair is a true athlete. Afghan Hounds were bred to hunt in rugged, mountainous country. Their big hip bones and springy stride give them great speed and agility on uneven ground.
5. Borzoi
The Borzoi, also called the Russian Wolfhound, is tall, elegant and surprisingly fast. It was bred to chase over open fields, and its long legs make short work of a big paddock.
Fast and tireless workers
6. Australian Kelpie
The Kelpie is a proudly Australian breed. Its real gift is stamina. It is quick, agile and can work for hours in the heat. Kelpies are famous for running across the backs of sheep to reach the front of a mob.
7. Border Collie
Border Collies combine speed, smarts and sharp reflexes. They excel at herding, agility and flyball. A bored Border Collie will find its own job, so these dogs need plenty of exercise and mental work.
8. Vizsla
This sleek Hungarian pointer is fast, athletic and famously affectionate. Vizslas love to run alongside active owners and are often called “velcro dogs” because they stick so close.
9. Dalmatian
Dalmatians were once used to run beside horse-drawn carriages for long distances. That history gave them a mix of speed and endurance that still shows today.
10. Jack Russell Terrier
Small but mighty, the Jack Russell is a pocket rocket. It is quick off the mark, loves to chase and has energy to burn. Do not let the size fool you.
What makes a dog fast?
The double suspension gallop
Sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets use a running style called the double suspension gallop. Twice in each stride, all four feet leave the ground. Their flexible spine stretches and bunches like a spring, adding length to every stride.
Built-in performance parts
Fast breeds tend to share a few traits: a deep chest for large lungs and a strong heart, lean muscle, long legs and a light frame. Many also have keen eyesight for spotting movement at a distance.
Keeping speedy dogs safe
Fast, active dogs are a joy to watch. They also face more risk of sprains, torn nails, cuts and muscle or ligament injuries. A few simple habits help:
- Warm up with a walk before letting your dog sprint.
- Avoid running in the heat of the day, especially in summer.
- Check paws after runs on sand, gravel or bush tracks.
- Use secure, fenced areas for off-lead running. Sighthounds can take off after anything that moves.
- See your vet if your dog limps, seems sore or slows down suddenly.
The finish line
Whether your dog is a record-breaking Greyhound or a zippy little terrier, every dog has its own turn of speed. This Cup Day, while the horses race for the trophy, give your own speedster a run and a treat.
Active dogs can pick up the odd knock along the way. If you would like help with unexpected vet bills, take a look at PetsOnMe pet insurance.
