What is Faster, A Cheetah Or A Greyhound?

Lorna Paxton Ladd |

Feb 6, 2024

What about Sulukis, Vizlas, Whippets and Borzois? Which breeds could beat a Cheetah? Read on to find out which breeds have the speed.

Greyhounds Would Win The Half Mile, Due To Endurance

In a half-mile race, which is approximately 804 meters, a greyhound would likely win against a cheetah. While cheetahs are the fastest land animals and can reach speeds up to 60-70 mph (96-112 km/h), they can only maintain these high speeds for very short distances, typically around 200 to 300 meters. They are built for short, explosive bursts of speed, not for endurance.

Greyhounds, on the other hand, are one of the fastest dog breeds and are built for both speed and endurance. They can reach speeds up to 45 mph (72 km/h) and maintain a high speed over longer distances than a cheetah. Over a half-mile distance, the greyhound’s endurance would give it a significant advantage, allowing it to maintain a high speed for the entire distance, while the cheetah would likely slow down significantly after its initial burst of speed.

Meet These 5 Fastest Dog Breeds

1. Greyhound

Speed Range: 40–45 mph

Renowned for their incredible speed, Greyhounds top the charts as the fastest dog breed. Capable of reaching speeds up to 45 miles per hour, they excel in short bursts of speed and are the stars of the racing world.

In a half mile, the Greyhound would beat the Cheetah

2. Saluki

Speed Range: 40–42 mph

Known for their elegance and grace, Salukis are swift hunters, capable of sprinting at approximately 42 miles per hour. Their endurance and agility make them adept at coursing games.

In a half-mile race, the outcome between a Saluki and a cheetah would likely be similar to that of a greyhound versus a cheetah. Salukis are known for their exceptional endurance and speed, being one of the fastest dog breeds. They can reach speeds of about 40-42 mph (64-68 km/h) and are particularly adept at maintaining high speeds over longer distances compared to most other breeds.

3. Whippet

Speed Range: 30–35 mph

Often referred to as the smaller cousin of the Greyhound, Whippets clock speeds nearing 35 miles per hour. With their slender build and impressive acceleration, they are favorites in lure coursing competitions.

Greyhounds and Whippets, though often confused due to their similar appearance, do have distinct differences. While both breeds belong to the sighthound family and share a slender, streamlined physique built for speed, Greyhounds are larger and heavier than Whippets. Greyhounds typically stand taller, reaching heights of around 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder, whereas Whippets are smaller, measuring about 18 to 22 inches.

In a half-mile race between a whippet and a cheetah, the outcome would likely favor the whippet due to its endurance over longer distances. Whippets are among the fastest dog breeds, capable of reaching speeds up to 35-40 mph (56-64 km/h). While they are not as fast as greyhounds, they are known for their agility and relatively good endurance, especially compared to a cheetah.

4. Borzoi

Speed Range: 35–40 mph

This elegant and noble Russian breed boasts speeds of around 36 miles per hour. Borzois, also known as Russian Wolfhounds, showcase both speed and endurance, making them exceptional hunters.

In a half-mile race between a Borzoi and a cheetah, the outcome would likely be in favor of the Borzoi due to its endurance capabilities. Borzois, also known as Russian Wolfhounds, are sighthounds known for their speed and endurance. They can reach speeds up to 35-40 mph (56-64 km/h) and are built for sustained running over moderate distances.

Cheetahs, on the other hand, are the fastest land animals with the ability to reach speeds of 60-70 mph (96-112 km/h). However, their specialty lies in short, explosive bursts of speed over distances of about 200 to 300 meters. They are not built for endurance and quickly become overheated and exhausted after their initial sprint.

In a race covering a half-mile (approximately 804 meters), the Borzoi’s endurance would likely give it an advantage. The cheetah would start with a significant lead due to its unmatched acceleration and top speed, but as the race progresses beyond its optimal sprinting distance, the Borzoi’s ability to maintain a consistent speed over the entire distance would likely allow it to overtake the cheetah, which would slow down considerably after its initial burst.

5.Vizsla

Speed Range: 35–40 mph

Known for their boundless energy, Vizslas can reach speeds of about 40 miles per hour. These versatile hunting dogs possess the agility and athleticism to sustain their pace over varied terrains.

In a half-mile race between a Vizsla and a cheetah, the Vizsla would likely come out ahead due to its superior endurance. Vizslas are known for their agility, speed, and particularly their endurance. They are not as fast as greyhounds or whippets, with top speeds around 40 mph (64 km/h), but they excel in maintaining a steady pace over longer distances.

Cheetahs, while being the fastest land animals capable of reaching speeds up to 60-70 mph (96-112 km/h), have a significant limitation in their endurance. They can sustain their top speeds for only about 200 to 300 meters. Beyond this, they rapidly lose stamina due to overheating and exhaustion.

Over the course of a half-mile race, which is approximately 804 meters, the Vizsla’s endurance would be a key advantage. The cheetah would initially surge ahead with its incredible speed, but as the race extends beyond its short sprinting range, the Vizsla’s consistent pace and stamina would likely allow it to maintain its speed throughout the race and eventually overtake the cheetah as it slows down.

The Science Behind Speed

The science behind the incredible speeds these dogs achieve is a fascinating study in biomechanics. Researchers have dissected the anatomy and physiology of these breeds, uncovering distinct physical attributes that contribute to their remarkable agility. Their sleek and streamlined bodies, coupled with well-developed musculature and a well-defined skeletal structure, play pivotal roles in their sprinting capabilities. Their muscular power, particularly in the hindquarters, allows for strong propulsion, while their lung capacity aids in the efficient oxygenation of muscles during exertion, facilitating sustained speed over distance. Additionally, these breeds possess traits conducive to rapid acceleration, such as longer strides and flexible spines, allowing for exceptional maneuverability and swift changes in direction.

Understanding the biomechanics behind their speed has led to broader insights into how genetics, combined with specialized training and conditioning, contribute to their prowess. The agility and grace displayed by these dogs in their movements are a testament to the intricate interplay between their genetics and their adaptation to specific activities. Such studies not only shed light on the physical abilities of these breeds but also enhance our understanding of locomotion in the animal kingdom.

Breeds on the Race Track

Among the swift contenders listed, Greyhounds, Whippets, and Borzois often grace the race tracks with their remarkable speed and agility. Greyhounds, celebrated for their unparalleled speed, are the epitome of racing dogs, commonly seen in various track competitions worldwide. Their streamlined physique and incredible bursts of speed make them stars in the racing arena.

Whippets, the smaller yet equally fleet-footed relatives of the Greyhound, are also frequent participants in lure coursing events and sprint races. Their impressive acceleration and sleek build render them highly competitive in racing sports, showcasing their innate ability to achieve impressive speeds.

Borzois, although not as commonly associated with racing as Greyhounds, have occasionally been seen on the track, especially in lure coursing contests. Their elegance and swift sprinting capabilities make them a notable presence in competitions, highlighting their impressive speed and endurance.

Training and Competition

For owners of these lightning-fast breeds, nurturing their inherent speed involves structured training and activities. Techniques such as sprint training, agility courses, and specialized exercises not only maintain their physical fitness but also harness their natural speed in a controlled environment.

Speed in dogs is not merely a matter of athleticism but a testament to the intricate interplay of genetics, physical attributes, and dedicated training. As we celebrate these swift breeds, it’s important to acknowledge their unique qualities and the joy they bring to the world of canine enthusiasts. Whether racing across tracks or frolicking in open fields, the fastest dog breeds exemplify the sheer beauty of canine athleticism.