How Fast Can A Dog Run? Average Dog Speed, Fastest Breeds & FAQs

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Meri Halvari, DVM.

If you’ve observed your dog sprinting alongside a canine friend at the park or zipping around your yard in pursuit of fun, it’s clear that dogs are naturally fast. But you might wonder, what makes them so swift on their feet? Do four legs give dogs a speed advantage over humans? The running pace of an average dog can vary widely and is influenced by several factors, including body composition, breed, size, and age. In this guide, we’ll explore all you need to know about canine running speeds. We’ll delve into the mechanics of how dogs run so quickly, identify some of the fastest dog breeds, and much more.

How Fast Can A Dog Run?

A typical healthy domestic dog, without specific training or conditioning, can reach speeds of approximately 15-20 mph (or 24-32 km/h). Nonetheless, the spectrum of dogs’ top speeds is broad and primarily influenced by their breed and size. Breeds with shorter legs and more robust bodies, including French Bulldogs and Basset Hounds, tend to run slower than the average. On the other hand, breeds that boast long legs and streamlined bodies, like Greyhounds and Whippets, usually run much faster. Physical conditioning is another factor that influences canine speeds.

Dog Speed Types

Generally, dog speed falls into one of the three categories below.

Average Dog Speed: The average speed a dog can comfortably maintain is not the maximum speed it can reach, but rather a pace sustained over a moderate distance without overexertion. For most healthy adult dogs, this range is typically 15-20 mph. This speed would be typical during a routine run, such as when a dog is playing fetch or taking a jog alongside its owner.

Dog Running Speed: A dog’s running speed defines the speed at which a dog travels while running. It can vary widely depending on the dog’s mood and circumstance (playful running, chasing something, running out of fear), physical fitness, and the immediate environment. Typically, dogs in this speed phase run at speeds of between 20 and 30 miles per hour.

Dog Top Speed: A dog’s top speed refers to the fastest speed a dog can reach. This is the peak performance a dog can achieve and is typically maintained for only brief periods, such as during a high-speed chase or competitive racing. The average dog’s top speed is typically associated with running dog breeds, such as Greyhounds, Salukis, and Afghan Hounds. A dog’s top speed fluctuates between 30 and 45 miles per hour. Greyhounds, for example, are known to reach top speeds of up to 45 mph, which is far beyond the average for most breeds. This speed is not sustainable for long distances due to the immense energy expenditure and physical demands on the dog’s body.

How Fast Is The Fastest Dog?

The Greyhound breed holds the title for the fastest canines on Earth, reaching top speeds close to 45 miles per hour. The fastest recorded speed for a Greyhound is 41.8 miles per hour, documented in Wyong, Australia, in 1994. Additionally, an Australian Greyhound is reputed to have reached an astonishing but unofficial speed of 50.5 miles per hour, making it the swiftest recorded run for a dog.

A Dog’s Anatomy Is Built For Running Fast

The Science of Why Dogs Run So Fast

According to research, this is why dogs are capable of running fast.

1. Limb optimization for sprinting: Research indicates that dogs can quickly transition from walking to sprinting, utilizing limbs optimized for movement. As the Merck Veterinary Manual notes, dogs share many of the same muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments as humans.^[1]

2. Force application: Like an elite sprinter who can apply significant force with each step, dogs also utilize peak muscular force, which suggests they operate near the force limits of their muscles and limbs.

3. Genetic influence on muscle mass: A study published in PLOS Genetics discovered a genetic mutation in some Whippets that codes for a muscle protein known as Myostatin, which increases muscle mass, enhancing their speed and racing performance (a condition known as Bully Whippet Syndrome). The findings explain why some Whippets can run even faster than other dogs and validate the correlation between muscle mass and the speed at which certain dog breeds can run.^[2]

4. Muscle contraction and speed limits: In humans, the running speed limits are set by the contractile speed of the muscle, with the contractile speeds of the muscle fibers determining the limit on how quickly the runner’s limb can apply force to the running surface. The same applies to dogs; the top speed dogs can reach may depend on how quickly their muscles can contract.

5. Ancestral skeletal structure and endurance: Dogs inherit a skeleton adapted for running and leaping from their wolf ancestors, designed to propel them forward quickly for chasing prey. The University of California, Santa Cruz research compared the running prowess of retrievers, hounds, and northern breeds and found that dog breeds that have remained closest to their wolf ancestors (northern breeds) showed greater athleticism and endurance due to their more wolf-like skeletal structure (the angle of the head and the rear leg are more wolf-like), which allows efficient energy transfer and reuse with each stride.^[3]

The Fastest Dog Breeds

The fastest dog breed might be a great addition to a family for people who love to run or have an active lifestyle. As proud owners of a Greyhound, the fastest dog breed in the world, we understand the importance of maintaining their peak physical condition. If your dog is among the fast dog breeds or a fairly active dog, we recommend Whistle, a premier activity tracker for dogs that allows you to track and achieve your dog’s fitness goals based on breed, age, and weight. It also provides health monitoring to catch potential health issues before they become problems.

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The Slowest Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds are not known for their speed. The average speed for the slowest dog breeds typically ranges from 5 to 10 miles per hour. Here is a list of dog breeds that don’t run as fast, along with their estimated speeds.

1. French bulldog – Under 15 mph
2. Chihuahua – 5 to 10 mph
3. Cardigan Welsh Corgi – Under 10 mph
4. Pekingese – Under 10 mph
5. Pembroke Welsh Corgi – Under 10 mph
6. Japanese Chin – Under 10 mph
7. Shih Tzu – 6 mph
8. Pug – 5 to 10 mph
9. Old English Mastiff – Around 15 miles per hour
10. Toy poodle – 10 mph
11. Bulldog – Under 15 mph
12. Bassett Hound – 5 to 10 mph

How Fast Can A Puppy Run?

Generally, very young puppies may only trot at a few miles per hour as they are still developing coordination and building muscle strength. Their speed increases as they grow and their bodies become more capable of handling the physical demands of running. Most puppies can eventually reach speeds of 5 to 15 miles per hour. However, larger breed puppies that will grow into naturally fast dogs—such as Greyhounds or German Shepherds—may show an aptitude for speed even at a young age. By around six months old, they may be capable of running at speeds of 10–15 miles per hour in short bursts. In contrast, smaller breeds or those not bred for speed typically run at slower paces.

History of Dogs Running Fast

The history of dogs running fast is closely tied to the sport of dog racing. Although dog racing has a largely undocumented past, it is known to have originated with Greyhounds, a breed renowned for their speed. The sport gained popularity in the United States in 1919, and soon after, countries like Australia began establishing racetracks as well. Today, only six states in the U.S. still allow greyhound racing, due to a significant decline in public interest and betting. Additionally, all racing Greyhounds in the U.S. must be officially registered with the National Greyhound Association (NGA).

Dogs Evolved to Run Faster

Regarding the historical evolution of dogs’ running speeds, contrary to the notion that these speeds have remained static over time, evidence suggests otherwise. Research published in the Journal of Experimental Biology examined the speed limits of dogs, horses, and humans, revealing that the racing speeds of both horses and greyhounds have risen.^[5]

The winning speed in the greyhound English Grand National has increased by nearly 15% in the 80 years since its inception in 1927. Thus, parallel to the improvements in human athletes, our canine counterparts have also experienced enhancements in their racing speeds over the years.

Signs Your Dog Can Run Fast

Here are some common signs your dog is a fast runner.

Determine How Fast Your Dog Can Run

Why Some Dogs Don’t Run Fast

Some dogs can’t run fast due to their genetic and physical characteristics. For example, breeds like Huskies and Greyhounds are naturally built for speed and endurance. Sustained running, such as 30- to 60-minute jogs, requires dogs to take in large amounts of oxygen, which depends on specific genetic traits. Consider short-nosed breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs: these brachycephalic dogs often struggle with running due to their compromised respiratory systems, which include narrow nostrils and elongated soft palates that hinder efficient breathing. Similarly, large breeds such as St. Bernards and Newfoundlands may be capable of short bursts of speed but typically lack the stamina for long-distance running because of their substantial body mass.

How Fast Can Small Dogs Run?

Smaller dog breeds, such as Chihuahuas, tend to be slower runners due to their petite size. Their shorter legs limit both speed and stride length. These breeds also have smaller lung capacities and hearts, making it difficult to sustain rapid breathing rates for long periods, which causes them to tire quickly. For example, a Shih Tzu may average speeds of only about 6 miles per hour, while the average dog can reach speeds of 15–20 miles per hour and maintain a brisk walking pace for much longer. The anatomy of small dogs generally isn’t built for speed—their limb and body structure don’t allow for efficient propulsion. However, there are exceptions, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, which is known for its agility and quickness.

Training Your Dog to Run Fast

Are Dogs Faster Than Humans?

Dogs can run faster than humans. The average dog can outpace most humans with ease. The key to a dog running faster than humans is its body structure. A dog’s long, lean, muscular body is crucial to its running speed.

Dog Speed vs Human Speed

When comparing the average speed of a typical household dog, which is around 15-20 mph, to the average speed of a human aged between 18 and 34, which is 13.62 km/h (8.46 mph), it’s evident that dogs generally run faster than humans. On average, dogs run 7 to 12 miles per hour faster than humans. This disparity grows even more pronounced when considering athletic dog breeds, such as Greyhounds, which can reach speeds up to 45 mph.

Fastest Human vs Fastest Dog Breed

The fastest human, Usain Bolt, can run at a speed of 27.8 miles per hour, while the Greyhound, the fastest dog in the world, can run at about 45 miles per hour. Bolt set the 100-meter world record at 9.58 seconds. By comparison, a Greyhound can complete 100 meters in just 5.33 seconds. In this comparison, the winner is our canine companion, the Greyhound, sprinting at a rate 1.6 times faster than the fastest human.

How Fast Can a Dog Run a Mile?

It depends on the dog breed. An average dog can run a mile in 8 to 10 minutes, while an elite dog built to run can easily run a mile in 4-6 minutes.

How Fast Can a Dog Run MPH?

Dogs, on average, can run about 15 to 20 miles per hour. The highest verified speed is 41.8 miles per hour, set by a Greyhound.

Dog Speed Km/H?

When it comes to kilometers per hour, dogs, on average, can run at speeds of approximately 24 to 32 kilometers per hour. The fastest speed is 67 kilometers per hour, set by a Greyhound.

Frequently Asked Questions

Caring For Dogs That Run Fast

Dogs require regular exercise and mental stimulation, which is essential for all canines, from high-energy marathon runners and swift sprinters to more sedentary ‘couch potato’ breeds. Engaging in everyday activities, such as running, walking, and fetch, helps maintain your pet’s healthy weight and contributes to its overall well-being. Leveraging your dog’s innate propensity for running can be fun and rewarding. Explore our guide on dog sports and entertaining activities for ideas on how to channel this energy. Additionally, a dog treadmill can be an excellent tool for enhancing your dog’s speed and endurance. This is especially useful when your schedule doesn’t allow regular outdoor exercise. Dog runs also give your canine speedster a place to run around.

Regardless of your furry friend’s activity level, ensuring they get enough physical activity is the best way to alleviate stress and prevent anxious or destructive behavior.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Description and Physical Characteristics of Dogs – Dog Owners
2. Parker, H. G., Kim, L. V., Sutter, N. B., Carlson, S., Lorentzen, T. D., Malek, T. B., … & Ostrander, E. A. (2007). Genetic structure of the purebred domestic dog. PLOS Genetics, 3(5), e79.
3. VonHoldt, B. M., Pollinger, J. P., Lohmueller, K. E., Han, E., Parker, H. G., Quignon, P., … & Ostrander, E. A. (2016). Genome-wide SNP and haplotype analyses reveal a rich history underlying dog domestication. Nature, 464(7290), 898-902.
4. Bryce, C. M., & Williams, T. M. (2017). Comparative locomotor costs of domestic dogs reveal energetic economy of wolf-like breeds. Journal of Experimental Biology, 220(Pt 2), 312-321.
5. GREY2K USA. (n.d.). History of Dog Racing in the United States.
6. Denver Zoo. African Wild Dog, Lycaon pictus.