What are the Best Tall, Skinny Dog Breeds?

Yes, you read that right. Dogs can be skinny, but not because of poor eating habits, poor gut health, or disease, but rather because of their natural body structure. They are naturally slim and have been that way since birth. Consequently, it is incorrect to describe them as underweight.

You will be surprised to find that many dogs have a tall, slim build. Tall, skinny dogs differ significantly from each other while also sharing some characteristics. Read on to learn more about these cute, tall, skinny dog breeds, and pick out a canine friend to fill your life with immense joy.

10 Best Tall Skinny Dog Breeds - 

Most of the dogs on the list are greyhounds and were bred primarily for hunting or working purposes. However, due to their temperament, physical characteristics, and other features, these doggos have become an ideal choice for families looking for pets. Here is our curated list of the ten best tall, skinny dog breeds: 

1. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher is a compact yet strong dog breed. This dog is typically highly intelligent and courageous, making it a fantastic security dog. Dobermans can also be a loving and kind dogs; hence, they can be a perfect friend for your little ones. If you care for this dog, it will grow into a devoted companion.

• Origin: Germany
• Temperament: Loyal, alert
• Intelligence: Highly intelligent
• Group: Working group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 70 pounds (male) and 65 pounds (female)
• Energy Level: Powerful and high energy level 
• Physical Characteristics: Compact build, powerful, fast and muscular 
• Lifespan: 10 to 13 years 

2. English Greyhound

The English Greyhound is a tall, slender dog. These canines make fantastic pets in addition to being excellent racers and hunters. English Greyhounds can be devoted to people and other pets if given the right training, time, affection, and care. Although they are racing dogs, English Greyhounds are not particularly energetic, especially when they are retired. Instead, these dogs are known for their calm personality.

• Origin: England
• Temperament: Gentle
• Intelligence: Independent
• Group: Sighthound group 
• Height: Up to 2.5 feet tall 
• Weight: 65 to 70 pounds
• Energy Level: Low energy level 
• Physical Characteristics: Narrow head, long and slender tail, long, strong hind legs and deep chest
• Lifespan: 10 to 14 years

3. Azawakh

The Azawakh breed originated in the Sahara desert, where they were excellent hunters and allies of the local tribes. This dog has relatively long legs and a short, thin coat. A sweet, watchful breed, the Azawaka loves to chase balls and other toys. 

• Origin: West Africa
• Temperament: Protective, affectionate
• Intelligence: Highly intelligent
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 33 to 55 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Coat  in red, brindled, parti-color, black mask on the head 
• Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

4. Saluki

Greyhounds called saluki dogs have been around for 6000 years. Ancient Chinese and Egyptian artwork depicts numerous canines with similar shapes. Most of the time, this type of dog can be affectionate, but they are quite picky about who they choose to be devoted to.

• Origin: Middle East
• Temperament: Reserved, dignified
• Intelligence: Very intelligent
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 35 to 65 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Long tail, narrow waist, slightly arched hips, relatively deep chest, relatively narrow body, and slender legs 
• Lifespan: 12 to 14 years

5. Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound belongs to the hound family and has two coat types: smooth and wire, with smooth being the most common. They make wonderful family dogs today because they are energetic and a little funny. They like to cuddle with family members and can live in apartments with enough exercise.

• Origin: Balearic Islands, Spain
• Temperament: Playful, energetic
• Intelligence: Clever
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 45 to 55 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Coat  in solid white or red colors
• Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

6. Vizsla

The Vizsla is athletic dog starting with V, originates from Hungary and was once a professional hunter. They need a house with a large garden to burn off the energy. This dog has a light build and is also classified as medium-sized. Their muscular and slim figure distinguishes them as sporty.

• Origin: Hungary
• Temperament: Affectionate, energetic
• Intelligence: Highly intelligent
• Group: Sporting Group 
• Height: 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 45 to 65 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Slim and golden rust coat
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

7. Pharaoh Hound

This tall brown dog can run at extremely high speeds and has a body that is noticeably muscular. This dog also has a keen sense of smell, amber eyes, and a thin brown coat. This dog needs at least fifteen minutes of daily exercise, so you'll need to run it daily. 

• Origin: Malta
• Temperament: Friendly, intelligent
• Intelligence: Affectionate
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 45 to 55 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Chestnut colored with marks on tail, chest, toes and face
• Lifespan: 11 to 14 years

8. Kanni Breed

Although slightly smaller, the Kanni dog resembles a greyhound in certain ways. The Kanni breed has a short black or tan coat. Because of their extreme energy, these dogs require at least an hour of outdoor exercise or walks daily. The Kanni breed is incredibly intelligent and easy to train. 

• Origin: India
• Temperament: Reserved, loyal
• Intelligence: Intelligent
• Group: Scenthound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 16 to 22 pounds
• Energy Level: Low energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Medium in size with a tucked tummy
• Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

9.  Whippet 

The whippet dog has a neat, slender body and long legs. The dog's coat is also pleasantly short and smooth, making it easy to maintain. This type of dog is less aggressive and gentler, which makes it a great addition to any family. This is a relatively attentive breed of dogs, so their training will not be too challenging.

• Origin: England
• Temperament: Affectionate, gentle
• Intelligence: Intelligent
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Almost  2 feet tall 
• Weight: 25 to 40 pounds
• Energy Level: Low energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Slim and long legs, tucked tummy, deep chest with a muscular body
• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

10. American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhounds are known for their extraordinary running speed and endurance over long distances. Patience is a must to train this dog and make sure it is a useful family pet. With its dark brown eyes, drooping ears, athletic build, and multicolored medium-length coat, this dog is one of the tallest, skinny dog breeds.

• Origin: United States
• Temperament: Energetic, friendly
• Intelligence: Intelligent
• Group: Hound group 
• Height: Over 2 feet tall 
• Weight: 40 to 60 pounds
• Energy Level: High energy level
• Physical Characteristics: Muscular, deep chest and sturdy back
• Lifespan: 11 to 12 years

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are dog breeds that are tall and lean more prone to health problems?

Tall dogs are more likely than small dogs to develop hip and elbow dysplasia and are, therefore more likely to develop arthritis. Stomach bloat in large, deep-chested dogs can involve torsion, where the stomach twists and turns in on itself.

Which tall, lean breed is known for its speed?

The Saluki breed is exceptionally fast, and these dogs are typically remarkably thin.

Which tall, skinny dog breed can live in apartments?

Greyhounds are capable of residing in condos or houses with little yards.

Are all tall, skinny dogs very energetic?

Yes, most tall and lean dog breeds have high energy levels and are always active. 

Do tall, lean breeds get along well with children and other animals?

If given the right training, time, love, and care, these dog breeds can be devoted to people and other pets.

Do tall, slender dog breeds need special grooming?

Tall, skinny dogs need special grooming. They have an extremely sensitive coat that is prone to matting.

Is it difficult to train the tall, skinny dog breeds?

No, training tall, skinny dogs is not challenging at all. They are active, and spending about half an hour daily is ideal for their well-being and joyful temperament. 

Which tall, lean breed is known for its hunting prowess?

Greyhounds are popular for their hunting abilities. Although they were initially employed to hunt and track animals, including rabbits, deer, and foxes, in recent times, they were commonly used in dog racing due to their speed.

How can I choose the ideal tall, lean breed for my lifestyle?

Think about how much time you have to spend with your dog and your daily schedule. You can look into dog breeds that are said to be a good fit for your lifestyle once you have a general idea of ​​them.

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