Which breed is the fastest runner, reaching up to 45 mph?

The Greyhound is the fastest dog breed, capable of reaching roughly 45 mph in short bursts. Its streamlined body, long legs, flexible spine, and powerful hindquarters make it exceptionally suited to sprinting.

Greyhounds were developed for coursing and were historically used to chase fast game such as hare. Their racing careers later made them famous on tracks, where they accelerate rapidly but usually sustain top speed only briefly.

The breed’s running style is distinctive. At full speed, a Greyhound uses a “double suspension” gallop, with all four feet leaving the ground twice during each stride. This helps explain the breed’s remarkable acceleration and long, efficient stride.

People sometimes confuse the Greyhound with the Saluki. The Saluki may excel over longer distances, but the Greyhound is generally credited as the fastest dog over sprint distances, particularly up to about 800 metres.