Speed of the Fastest Dog

Different sources have deemed different dogs the fastest of dogs. The two breeds that undoubtedly make the top of the list are the greyhound and the African Wild Dog.

Greyhounds have long been known for their speed. They are commonly used on the racetrack and once were bred primarily for racing. The first coursing society was setup in Britain in 1776. A member of the sight hound, the greyhound is one of the few original dog breeds and can be traced back to ancient Egypt. They trail the cheetah, the world's fastest land animal over a short distance in rank number 14 according to the World Almanac and book of facts 2009.Greyhounds are rarely gray; they come in many colors, and can be black or white or shades of brown. Greyhounds make great pets due to their mild and affectionate nature. They are gentle dogs and get along with children and other family pets.

The African Wild Dog a.k.a. the painted wolf, a.k.a. the cape hunting dog belongs to the Canidae family and is the only species in the genus lycaon. Scientifically named lycaon pictus, these African natives are very successful hunters. They hunt in packs and pursue their prey in long open chases. Pack members usually cooperate in hunting large mammals, but individuals sometimes pursue hares, rodents, or other small animals. Full speed chases ensue at 40-60 km/h. This breed is currently ranked 8th in speed of land animals over a short distance. The African Wild Dog is currently listed on the endangered species list. They were formerly found over almost all of Africa, including parts of the Sahara. However, there has been a major decline and most remain in southern and eastern Africa; only small populations remain in western and central Africa. These dogs frequently come in conflict with human activities and face habitat loss with the growing human population. When this happens, they are often poisoned or shot. Once existing in over 39 countries in figures around half a million, African Wild dogs now exist in fewer than 25 countries and their numbers stand at approximately 3,000-5,500.

Celeste Qian -- 2009

A member of the sight hound family, the greyhound is one of the few original dog breeds and can be traced back to ancient Egypt. Tombs from the year 4,000 BC to 3500 BC, are adorned with drawings of dogs resembling the greyhound and saluki. During the latter years of the fifth and sixth century, through trade in the Near East and Europe, greyhounds made their way to England where they became a symbol of wealth. States one Welsh proverb, "You may know a gentleman by his horse, his hawk and his greyhound." Ownership by common folk was limited due to the Law of Canute of 1016 under the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. Originally hunters, Europeans found another use for greyhounds. from the Romans to Britain, dog racing became popular, involving greyhounds, salukis and whippets. The first coursing society was setup in Britain in 1776. In the past, most retired greyhounds were killed and while some still are, many become loyal and admired pets. A Roman, Arrian, from AD 200, described greyhound as loyal friends who jumped up to greet them at home when they were gone for even a short time. They are mild and affectionate, get along well with children and family pets, including cats. At 28-30 inches tall, 65-70 pounds, white, brown, fawn, fallow, black, gray, white, red, or blue in color, these short haired dogs range from a price of $50,000 to $80,000. Yet their dynamic character and endless talents make them worthy of the price.

Geeta Malieckal -- 2004

External links to this page:

• Greyhounds. h2g2 - The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. BBC. 16 March 2006