If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels in the last few years.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
But if you want a pup that will do two laps of the park before more of its canine friends have done one, there are a few dogs you should have at the top of your list.
Here are 12 of the fastest breeds, according to the American Kennel Club.
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5. Jack Russell Terrier
Small but speedy, the Jack Russell Terrier rounds out the top five fastest dogs. Bred to be the perfect dog for fox hunting, they can clock speeds of up to 38mph. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Dalmation
Dalmations can reach speeds of up to 37mph. Their quick pace came in useful when they were used to run alongside carriages to protect travellers from highwaymen. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Borzoi
Originally from Russia, where they were used as hunting dogs, the Borzoi just loves to run and can reach a speed of 36mph. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Whippet
The Whippet, like their larger Greyhound cousins, are natural racers and can speed along at up to 34mph - perfect for when they were used to hunt rabbits. Photo: Canva/Getty Images