The Complete List of Racing Dog Breeds

On race day — whether at a grayhound track, a coursing field, or a local fair — the energy of dogs built for speed is unmistakable. Watching different types line up and surge forward shows how form and function vary across regions and racing traditions.

There are 22 racing dog breeds, ranging from Afghan Hound to Whippet. For each entry you’ll find below the Scientific name,Primary racing type,Typical top speed (km/h) so you can compare lineage, how they compete, and how fast they typically run — all organized for quick reference you’ll find below.

Which breeds are fastest and what affects their speed?

Top speeds vary by build and racing style: sighthounds like Greyhounds and Whippets excel at short bursts on straight tracks, while breeds used for endurance or lure coursing prioritize agility and stamina. Typical top speeds are influenced by leg length, muscle composition, and training.

How should I choose a racing dog breed for a specific type of race?

Match the breed to the race format—sight-hunt racers for straight sprints, smaller agile breeds for short, twisty courses, and sturdier types for longer distances—and consider training needs, track rules, and the dog’s temperament before deciding.

Racing Dog Breeds

Images and Descriptions

Greyhound

The fastest dog breed, renowned for its “double suspension gallop.” It dominates professional track racing worldwide, chasing a mechanical lure. It is the quintessential athlete of the canine world, known for explosive speed over short distances.

Saluki

One of the most ancient breeds, the Saluki is prized for its incredible stamina and grace. It competes primarily in lure coursing, showcasing the endurance that once made it a legendary hunter of gazelle in desert environments.

Sloughi

The Sloughi, or Arabian Greyhound, is a lean and swift sighthound from North Africa. Historically used for hunting in the desert, it now demonstrates its incredible speed and endurance in organized lure coursing events around the world.

Galgo Español

The Spanish Greyhound, or Galgo, is an ancient sighthound bred for its speed and stamina in coursing hares. It competes in track racing and lure coursing, particularly in Spain, and is known for its agility and endurance.

Afghan Hound

With its dramatic coat and dignified presence, the Afghan Hound is a powerful sighthound that excels at lure coursing. Originally bred for hunting in the mountains of Afghanistan, it combines impressive speed with stamina for rough terrain.

Ibizan Hound

Originating from the Balearic Islands, the Ibizan Hound is a remarkable jumper and agile runner. It competes in lure coursing, where its ability to change direction quickly and clear obstacles makes it a standout performer on the field.

Azawakh

Hailing from the Sahel region of West Africa, the Azawakh is a lean, leggy sighthound built for speed and endurance in harsh conditions. It excels in lure coursing, displaying a distinctive, elastic gait and incredible stamina.

Magyar Agár

The Hungarian Greyhound is a rugged and powerful sighthound, bred for more stamina than a track Greyhound. It excels in both lure coursing and longer-distance track racing, showcasing its robust build and exceptional endurance.

Whippet

Often called the “poor man’s racehorse,” the Whippet is a smaller sighthound excelling in amateur sprint racing and lure coursing. It has incredible acceleration, reaching top speed in seconds, making it a popular and versatile racing companion.

Basenji

Known as the “barkless dog” from Africa, the Basenji is a primitive hound with a sighthound’s build and speed. It is a highly enthusiastic and skilled competitor in lure coursing, showcasing its natural agility and keen hunting instincts.

Pharaoh Hound

Malta’s national hound, the Pharaoh Hound is known for its unique ability to “blush” when excited. A swift and agile runner, it is a passionate and successful competitor in lure coursing, using both sight and sound.

Borzoi

The elegant Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, was bred by aristocrats for coursing wolves. Today, it competes in lure coursing events, where its combination of size, speed, and agility is put to the test on the field.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

Originally bred to hunt lions in Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback has the power and drive to excel in lure coursing. Though not a classic sighthound, its speed and agility make it a formidable and popular competitor in the sport.

German Shorthaired Pointer

A versatile hunting breed, the GSP is a top-tier athlete in dryland mushing (canicross, bikejoring) and skijoring. Its power, drive, and speed make it a favorite for single-dog sprint racing events across Europe and North America.

Eurohound

A cross between Alaskan Huskies and Pointers, the Eurohound dominates sprint mushing, skijoring, and bikejoring. Its lighter build and powerful gait make it unmatched for high-speed, shorter-distance sled sports in Europe and North America.

Jack Russell Terrier

These energetic terriers are stars of terrier racing, a popular event at country fairs. They sprint down a short track, often clearing small hurdles, showcasing the tenacity and speed originally bred for fox hunting. It’s a fun, chaotic sport.

Italian Greyhound

A miniature version of the Greyhound, this breed competes in lure coursing and straight-track amateur racing for its size class. Despite its delicate appearance, it possesses a true sighthound’s drive and surprising speed for its small stature.

Alaskan Husky

Not a purebred but a purpose-bred landrace, the Alaskan Husky is the premier sled dog for both sprint and distance events like the Iditarod. It’s bred solely for performance, combining speed, endurance, and a legendary work ethic.

Dachshund

While not a traditional athlete, the Dachshund is the star of “wiener dog races,” hugely popular novelty events held worldwide. These short, fun sprints showcase the breed’s surprising speed and competitive, albeit comical, spirit.

Corgi

Corgi racing has exploded in popularity as an organized novelty sport at racetracks and events. These short-legged but surprisingly fast herders sprint down a short track, delighting crowds with their determined, low-to-the-ground running style.

Siberian Husky

Famous for its endurance and striking appearance, the Siberian Husky is a cornerstone of recreational and competitive distance mushing. While not as fast as specialized racing huskies, its stamina and resilience make it ideal for multi-day sled races.

Alaskan Malamute

Built for power, not speed, the Alaskan Malamute competes in freighting and weight-pull events rather than sprint races. This mighty sled dog excels in endurance events that test its incredible strength and stamina over long, arduous distances.