Grace in Motion: A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Sighthounds (Full Breed Breakdown)

Sighthounds are some of the most breathtaking dogs on the planet — fast, elegant, sensitive, and deeply connected to the people they love. Known for their incredible speed and keen vision, these streamlined athletes have been admired for thousands of years. From the desert-born Saluki to the powerful Scottish Deerhound, each breed brings its own history, temperament, and unique charm.

For dog lovers, future adopters, and canine enthusiasts, understanding the different types of sighthounds can be both fascinating and helpful when choosing the right breed. This blog dives deep into what makes sighthounds so special, explores the full list of popular and lesser-known breeds, and highlights the qualities that make them beloved companions.

What Makes a Sighthound a Sighthound?

Before diving into individual breeds, it’s important to understand what defines a sighthound. Unlike scent hounds such as Beagles or Bloodhounds, sighthounds hunt primarily using vision and speed. Their long legs, aerodynamic bodies, and exceptional eyesight make them perfectly adapted for chasing fast prey across open landscapes.

 

Key sighthound characteristics include:

• A lean, athletic build

• Long limbs built for speed

• A deep chest for increased lung capacity

• A narrow waist, helping them reach high speeds

• Exceptional eyesight with a wide field of vision

• A gentle, sensitive nature

• A calm indoor temperament despite their athletic ability

These dogs are some of the fastest animals on earth. Breeds like the Greyhound can reach up to 45 mph, making them the Ferrari of the dog world.

 

Popular Types of Sighthounds (Full Breed Guide)

Below we will an in-depth look at the most popular and rare sighthounds, along with their history, temperament, and suitability for different types of homes.

1. Greyhound — The Iconic Speed Champion

The Greyhound is perhaps the most famous sighthound breed, known worldwide for its racing history and gentle personality. Despite their athletic reputation, Greyhounds are surprisingly laid-back and often described as “45-mph couch potatoes.”

Key Traits:

• One of the fastest dog breeds

• Calm, affectionate, and loyal

• Excellent indoor dogs

• Perfect for apartments or houses

• A top choice for first-time sighthound owners

Greyhounds make brilliant companions for families, singles, and those looking for a relaxed but graceful dog. They also dominate the world of sighthound adoption, as many retired racing Greyhounds look for loving homes every year.

 

2. Whippet — The Mini Greyhound with Endless Charm

Often described as a smaller version of the Greyhound, the Whippet is incredibly fast, friendly, and suitable for most homes. These dogs have a playful side, making them ideal for active families.

Key Traits:

• Fast, agile, and athletic

• Soft-natured and affectionate

• Thrive on human companionship

• Great with children

• Require moderate exercise

Whippets are beloved by people living in smaller spaces because they adapt well to indoor life. They are also one of the most popular breeds for lure coursing, a sport created specifically for sighthounds.

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3. Saluki — The Ancient Desert Hunter

The Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, often called the “Royal Dog of Egypt.” Known for their incredible endurance and elegant beauty, Salukis are highly intelligent and incredibly independent.

Key Traits:

• Extraordinary stamina

• Aloof but deeply loyal

• Sensitive and gentle

• Need secure outdoor spaces

• Graceful, silky coats

Salukis are best suited to experienced owners (rather then the newbies into the sighthound world) who understand their independent nature, but for the right family, they are deeply devoted companions.

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4. Afghan Hound — The Glamorous Icon

With its luxurious flowing coat and regal posture, the Afghan Hound is one of the most recognisable sighthound breeds. They originated in the mountains of Afghanistan and were bred to chase prey across rugged terrain.

Key Traits:

• Independent and quirky

• Highly athletic

• Requires consistent grooming

• Aloof with strangers but loving with family

Afghan Hounds are ideal for owners who appreciate their striking appearance and are ready for the grooming commitment.

5. Borzoi — The Russian Wolf Hunter

The Borzoi, (formerly known as the Russian Wolfhound,) is a breathtakingly beautiful breed with a calm, aristocratic personality.  Way back when ,these large sighthounds were used to hunt wolves across Russia’s open plains.

Key Traits:

• Quiet and dignified

• Gentle, affectionate nature

• Strong prey drive

• Need plenty of space to stretch their legs

Borzois are well-suited to peaceful households where they can relax in comfort while still enjoying bursts of high-speed running.

6. Irish Wolfhound — The Gentle Giant

The majestic Irish Wolfhound is one of the tallest dog breeds in the world. Despite their enormous size, they are incredibly gentle and are often described as “giant teddy bears.”

Key Traits:

• Friendly, patient, and affectionate

• Great with children

• Moderate exercise needs

• Very short lifespan

• Strong chase instinct

Irish Wolfhounds are perfect for families with room to accommodate their size and loving nature.

7. Scottish Deerhound — The Highland Hunter

Similar to the Irish Wolfhound but slightly slimmer, the Scottish Deerhound was bred to chase and bring down deer in the Scottish Highlands.

Key Traits:

• Calm and polite

• Deeply affectionate

• Need space and regular exercise

• Known for their sweet temperament

They make excellent companions for owners who appreciate large, quiet, and loving dogs.

8. Italian Greyhound — The Tiny Sighthound with a Big Heart

The much loved Italian Greyhound out of all the sighthound breeds is the smallest, adored for its delicate features and affectionate nature. They are playful, sensitive, and thrive on closeness with their humans.

Key Traits:

• Small, lightweight, and elegant

• Very affectionate

• Perfect lap dogs

• Can be sensitive to cold

• Require gentle training

Italian Greyhounds are ideal for people who want all the elegance of a sighthound in a small, apartment-friendly package.

9. Sloughi — The North African Desert Dog

The Sloughi, sometimes called the Arabian Greyhound, is a rare but extraordinary sighthound. Originating from Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya, they were bred to hunt gazelle in harsh desert conditions.

Key Traits:

• Loyal and devoted

• Elegant and athletic

• Needs experienced handling

• Reserved with strangers

Sloughis thrive in calm households where they can build trust and bond deeply with their owners.

10. Azawakh — The Sahel Sighthound

The Azawakh is a striking, ultra-slim breed with origins in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These dogs are fiercely loyal to their families and incredibly fast across long distances.

Key Traits:

• Highly intelligent

• Loyal and protective

• Light-framed and elegant

• Needs confident handlers

Azawakhs do best with experienced owners who understand their sensitive, proud nature.

 

11. Galgo Español — Spain’s Gentle, Noble Long-Distance Runner

The Galgo Español, or Spanish Greyhound, is one of Europe’s oldest and most distinctive sighthound breeds. Built for stamina rather than raw sprinting speed, the Galgo is known for elegance, endurance, and a deeply sensitive, affectionate nature. Historically used for hare coursing in rural Spain, today the Galgo has become a symbol of resilience, hope, and the transformative power of adoption.

Key Traits:

• Exceptionally gentle and affectionate

• Calm, relaxed, and peaceful indoors

• Long-distance runners with incredible stamina

• Highly sensitive and emotionally intuitive

• Often thrive in quiet, patient homes

• Strong candidates for rescue and adoption

Temperament and Personality

Galgos are famously soft, sweet, and sometimes shy dogs. Once they feel safe, they reveal a warm, playful, and often silly side. They bond deeply with their families and are known for being polite, gentle, and incredibly loving companions.

Many Galgos integrate beautifully with:

Children

Other dogscats (with careful introductions)

What All Sighthounds Have in Common

Although each breed has its own personality, all sighthounds share certain personality traits that make them incredibly special companions:

1. They are calm and gentle indoors.

Sighthounds are notorious for loving sofas, blankets, and warm spots. Many are much calmer than people expect.

2. They have a strong prey drive.

Because they were bred to chase fast animals, off-lead freedom must be managed safely.

3. They are sensitive and emotional.

These breeds thrive in peaceful, loving environments.

4. They require soft training methods.

Harsh techniques never work with sighthounds. Positive, gentle guidance is key.

5. They love short bursts of running.

While they can sprint at incredible speeds, most sighthounds only need short periods of intense exercise, followed by long naps.

Which Sighthound Breed Is Best for You?

Choosing the right sighthound depends on your lifestyle, experience, and preferences, take a look below to see which is best suited to you/your family.

Best for Families:

• Whippet

• Greyhound

• Irish Wolfhound

• Galgo Español

Best for Sensitive, Dedicated Owners:

• Saluki

• Afghan Hound

• Azawakh

• Borzoi

Best for Small Homes or Apartments:

• Italian Greyhound

• Whippet

• Greyhound

Best for Active Households:

• Saluki

• Borzoi

• Azawakh

• Galgo Español

Each sighthound breed has something unique to offer, but all truly shine when placed in a loving, understanding home.

Final Thoughts: The Magical World of Sighthounds

Sighthounds are more than just fast dogs — they are ancient, noble, affectionate companions with unique needs and unforgettable personalities. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of the Saluki, the sweetness of the Whippet, or the majestic presence of the Irish Wolfhound, there is a sighthound for every dog-loving home.

Their gentle spirits, peaceful nature, and stunning beauty make them some of the most rewarding dogs to share life with. If you're considering adopting or buying a sighthound, take the time to understand their needs, build a bond based on trust, and appreciate the grace these incredible dogs bring to the world.