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Who’s Faster: A Greyhound or a Cheetah?
At first glance, this isn’t even a question — a cheetah is the fastest land animal on Earth. But what happens when the race is longer than just a few hundred yards?
🐆 The Cheetah’s Strength: Blistering Speed
Cheetahs are built for incredible acceleration. They can go from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds and top out around 70 mph. But here’s the catch:
They can only maintain that speed for about 200–300 yards.
Why? Their bodies overheat quickly, and sprinting at that level burns a ton of energy. They’re sprinters, not endurance runners.
🐕 The Greyhound’s Strength: Long-Range Consistency
Now enter the Greyhound — not as fast off the line, but an elite long-distance sprinter by comparison. Greyhounds:
- Top out at 35–45 mph
- Can maintain that speed for several miles
- Are built for efficiency and stamina
In fact, a fit Greyhound could run 5–7 miles at race pace, while a cheetah would have to tap out within seconds.
🏁 So, Who Wins?
If you’re asking who crosses the 100-yard finish line first? Cheetah.
But if the race is even half a mile? The Greyhound wins easily — and could keep going.
That’s why some researchers (and dog fans) like to say:
“A Greyhound could beat a Cheetah in a long-distance race.”
So, context is important.
📚 Bonus Fact: Psychology Today actually wrote about this matchup. Their verdict? The Greyhound wins the marathon — but the cheetah owns the 40-yard dash.
📎 Related Post: What’s the Fastest Dog Breed in the World?