Surely, each of you knows that the fastest dogs in the world are representatives of hunting breeds. The official record holder is the Greyhound nicknamed Star Title. The dog, who managed to get around his relatives, runs at a speed of 68 kilometers per hour. After reading today's article, you will learn about the main features of fast breeds.
English greyhound
Representatives of this breed impress with their unconditional devotion to the owner. They are characterized by aristocratic sophisticated manners. These fastest dogs in the world are considered natural hunters and runners. Despite their purpose, they are able to become real pets, with fondness for all family members.
To date, there are several versions of the origin of these dogs. According to one hypothesis, the English greyhound is a descendant of dogs that lived in ancient Egypt. Confirmation of this assumption is considered to be found in the tombs of drawings dated to the fourth millennium BC. In accordance with another theory, its ancestors are Arab servants, brought to England in 900 AD.
These large smooth-haired animals are characterized by amazing flexibility and curvature. They can be easily recognized by their physique typical of all greyhounds. A Greyhound dog has long strong limbs, a deep powerful chest, a long neck and a narrow, graceful head. The coat of representatives of this breed can be painted in black, white, blue, red, fawn or isabella. Today, these chiseled tall dogs with well-developed muscles are grown mainly for races, exhibitions and hunting.
Russian canine
It is interesting that the first information about the representatives of this breed is dated to the 17th century. In the modern greyhound, the European and Asian elements merged. The first is manifested in their appearance, the second in character traits.
Although they are not the fastest dogs in the world, they are capable of developing impressive speed, especially over short distances. Elegant Russian canine is tall and has a narrow physique. On a long, dry head are dark brown oval eyes and small sharp ears, tightly pressed to the neck. A true decoration of these animals is a thin, long, saber tail with a fairly thick suspension. The graceful body of dogs is covered with soft wavy hair of different colors.
Afghan hound
This one of the most ancient breeds has a rather exotic appearance. It successfully combines natural grace, flexibility and sustainability. The growth of adults reaches seventy-five centimeters with a weight of not more than thirty kilograms. These animals have a strong body with a wide chest and a long muscular neck. A strong straight back smoothly passes into a low-set, poorly overgrown tail. On an elongated head with a mild transition between the forehead and nose, there are almond-shaped dark eyes and far-set hanging ears.
These, by the way, are not the fastest dogs in the world capable of running at speeds of more than 50 kilometers per hour. They are very agile, jumping and perfectly oriented on the ground. Afghan hounds are covered with soft fine wool. The longest hair is on the legs, chest, head and sides of the animal. As for the color, it can be anything except brindle. The presence of white spots is also undesirable.
Italian greyhound
Few people know that this dog is also called the Italian Greyhound. Even in the time of the pharaohs, these small graceful animals were assigned the role of favorites of royal persons. These active dogs can become a worthy companion to an energetic person. Despite their fragile appearance, they are quite strong and hardy. For example, in Italy Italian greyhound is used today for hunting hares.
The maximum height of adults is 38 centimeters, and the weight does not exceed five kilograms. Representatives of the breed have a compact lightweight body with a straight back and slightly curved lower back. Italian greyhounds have a complaisant character and are not prone to destructive behavior. They listen with trepidation to everything said by the owner, so when dealing with them it is important to avoid sharp intonations.