Tall, skinny dog breeds may appear concerning at first glance. These dogs are almost just skin and bones covered in fur, but surprisingly, they are often full of energy and surprises!
These dogs may not have the same cuddly build as other dogs, but their personalities are more than worth it. In fact, most of these tall, skinny dogs are the ones dominating agility, obedience, and other dog competitions.
If you wish to meet some of these tall, skinny dogs, look no further. Listed below are the 20 most popular slim dog breeds, along with some facts about each breed in case you want to bring one home.
20 Tall Skinny Dogs
Dogs come in many shapes and sizes, and in this section, we’re about to discuss the most common tall, skinny dog breeds.
While these dogs appear to have unhealthy, poor eating habits or diseases, their structures are actually natural to them.
1. Greyhound
| Height: | 27 – 30 inches |
| Weight: | 60 – 70 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 13 years |
| Temperament: | Independent, gentle, noble |
One of the oldest dog breeds in the world, the Greyhound, comes in at number one on our list of tall, skinny dog breeds.
This dog has existed since 3000 B.C. and was created in prehistoric Egypt. This ancient Egyptian breed was developed as a hunting companion to search for hares, foxes, and deer.
The Greyhound is a champion breed for being tall and lean, measuring 27 to 30 inches tall and having only 13% body fat. This dog can run at a speed of up to 45 mph since it normally weighs between 60 and 70 pounds.
In addition, the Greyhound is renowned for having a lot of energy. It is designed as a sprinter, so a daily stroll will do. However, an active family or individual may find it an excellent partner for jogging or running.
A Greyhound may thrive in an apartment or a home with a little yard as well. But it does need a strong fence to stop it from pursuing animals it might consider prey, such as rabbits, cats, squirrels, etc.
If you prefer a more manageable dog, you may choose among its mixes or another version, such as the Italian Greyhound.
The Italian Greyhound is simply the miniature type of the Greyhound; therefore, it shares the breed’s grace and refinement.
Despite not having long legs, Italian Greyhounds are considered to be among the most popular skinny dog breeds.
2. Afghan Hound
| Height: | 25 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 50 – 60 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 18 years |
| Temperament: | Sweet, dignified, aloof |
The Afghan Hound is another ancient breed on our list of dogs with little body fat. This dog was discovered in Afghanistan in the 1800s and was used for hunting big game in the country’s mountains and deserts.
This dog weighs only 50 to 60 pounds and stands between 25 and 27 inches at the shoulder. However, due to its thick, silky coat, most people do not see it as a skinny dog.
The Afghan Hound is admired for its capacity to sprint rapidly and over great distances. It is also prized for its ability to think for itself and do work without human guidance.
Despite its independence, the Afghan Hound can also be very tender and amusing when it wants to be. It is sometimes referred to as a clown by its adoring family due to its mischievous behavior.
Although this breed responds well to gentle handling, first-time dog owners are frequently discouraged from getting one because of how much attention and training it requires.
3. Pharaoh Hound
| Height: | 21 – 25 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 55 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 14 years |
| Temperament: | Friendly, smart, cautious |
The Pharaoh Hound is next on our list of tall, slim dogs. The Phoenicians introduced this breed throughout the Mediterranean region, but it is mostly found on the island of Malta, where it became a national hound.
The Pharaoh Hound is a sleek, agile hunting hound built for high-speed, rocky terrain prey pursuit. When fully grown, it typically measures 21 to 25 inches tall and weighs 45 to 55 pounds.
One of the best-identifying features of this dog is its thin brown coat. A white or pale marking may occasionally be present on its chest.
Additionally, the Pharaoh Hound is known as the “blushing dog” because of its adorable way of blushing when excited. This dog is a friendly, loving hound that fits in well at home.
To stay happy and healthy, the Pharaoh Hound must walk or run for at least 30 to 60 minutes daily. You may also just play fun games with this dog since it loves interacting with others and entertaining its owners.
4. Ibizan Hound
| Height: | 22.5 – 27.5 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 50 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11 – 14 years |
| Temperament: | Family-oriented, even-tempered, polite |
Another hunting dog that doesn’t have a lot of body fat is the Ibizan Hound.
On the Balearic island of Ibiza, this dog was bred specifically to hunt rabbits and other small animals, and it is still used for this purpose in Spain.
The Ibizan stands between 22.5 and 27.5 inches and weighs between 45 and 50 pounds. This dog breed belongs to the fastest and most durable breeds, owing to its long legs and powerful body designed for speed.
While other hounds enjoy leisure, this breed is more inclined to run and hunt. Being a member of the hound family, it aids hunters with its keen sense of scent.
To release excess energy, the Ibizan Hound requires a moderate amount of physical activity. A daily walk or jog of 20 to 30 minutes will be sufficient for this dog.
The Ibizan Hound is also a calm, placid, and friendly dog that makes a great addition to any family. Due to its size and general activity level, however, this dog might not be the best choice for homes with narrow spaces.
5. Borzoi
| Height: | 26 – 32 inches |
| Weight: | 60 – 105 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 9 – 14 years |
| Temperament: | Loyal, affectionate, regally dignified |
Popular for having a long snout, the Borzoi is also one of the best tall breeds with lean bodies in the dog world. It weighs 60 to 105 pounds and is taller than the average large dog, which is more than 26 inches.
Originally known as Russian Wolfhounds, the Borzoi was developed in 17th-century Russia and quickly rose to become the preferred canine of the Russian nobility.
Even though the breed was acknowledged by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1891, the name was changed from Russian Wolfhounds to Borzoi in 1938.
Despite the name change, the breed standard was not changed in any way. The Borzoi is still described as having a uniquely long, silky, or curly coat that can be in any color.
This dog must be regularly groomed and brushed with a pin brush to remove all loose hair and avoid matting in order to keep its elegance.
A strong-willed trainer is also necessary to teach Borzoi what is appropriate and what is not. It will additionally require proper early socialization due to its lack of a strong desire to please its master.
6. Azawakh
| Height: | 23.5 – 29 inches |
| Weight: | 33 – 55 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
| Temperament: | Independent, deeply affectionate, quiet |
The next tall and skinny dog breed on this list was owned by Tuareg nomads, who called it the sighthound of the free people.
The Azawakh breed originated in the Sahara Desert’s Azawakh Valley and was kept by the people of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger as hunters, guard dogs, and pets.
The Azawakh stands between 23 and 29 inches tall and weighs about 33 to 55 pounds. This dog’s skin is compressed, revealing its ribs and other bones.
It also has a short, fine coat that can be in various colors, such as blue, black, brindle, brown, cream, fawn, gray, red, sandy, and white.
Like most of the dogs on this list, this dog is kind and protective of its family yet wary of strangers and does not like to be petted by them.
As a sighthound, the Azawakh breed is drawn to motion and is inclined to pursue moving objects like children, bicycles, and animals.
In order to avoid the traits found in hunting hounds, this dog must be properly trained while still a puppy.
Additionally, compared to a Greyhound, the Azawakh don’t need as much mental and physical exercise. To keep it content and happy, it will need daily walks or, at the very least, an interactive toy.
7. Kanni Dog
| Height: | 22 – 25 inches |
| Weight: | 35 – 48 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 14 – 16 years |
| Temperament: | Trainable, self-sufficient, territorial |
Next on our list of tall and skinny dog breeds is the Kanni breed. The Kanni dogs are from Tamil Nadu in southern India and are accepted by the Indian Kennel Club.
This royal indigenous breed is also referred to as the Maiden’s Beastmaster after being presented as a gift to a new bride at the marriage ceremony in small Indian village communities as protection in her new life.
The Kanni has a Greyhound-like appearance but is smaller in stature, weighing 35 to 48 pounds and around 22 to 25 inches tall.
This dog only comes in black and sable or black and tan colorations. In addition, it has smooth, short coats that require little brushing, making it one of the lower maintenance breeds of dogs.
A Kanni is an intelligent and trainable breed that is often reserved yet devoted and protective of its family. As long as its exercise needs are addressed, it does not become destructive.
Since the Kanni dogs were bred to function independently, this dog could occasionally become stubborn. On the plus side, the Kanni breed is a smart, obedient, and simple-to-teach dog.
8. Saluki
| Height: | 23 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 40 – 65 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 17 years |
| Temperament: | Modest, kind, self-reliant |
The Saluki is one of the oldest and most expensive tall and skinny dog breeds on this list. This happened because it was previously a hunting hound for kings and other royal family members.
The Saluki is a Middle Eastern dog breed developed initially to hunt gazelles and hares. It stands between 23 and 28 inches tall and weighs between 40 and 65 pounds.
In the canine world, the Saluki is referred to as the marathon runner. This dog appears sturdy and supple, beautifully balanced, and symmetrical despite its bony legs and thin appearance.
Although this dog is admirable, not everyone can live with this active and independent hunter. Any movement can cause a Saluki’s chasing urge to kick up.
If you can keep up with it, the Saluki makes a fantastic jogging partner. It also excels at agility and lure coursing.
In addition, a Saluki is simple to teach, but you should not count on their passivity. This dog also thinks independently, so it might choose what interests them over you.
Never employ abrupt verbal or physical forms of punishment; instead, utilize positive reinforcement techniques like rewarding it with treats or praises.
9. Whippet
| Height: | 18 – 22 inches |
| Weight: | 25 – 40 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 15 years |
| Temperament: | Playful, loving, calm |
The Whippet resembles a Greyhound with curves. It has long, slender legs, narrow waists, and deep chests, earning it the nickname “poor man’s Greyhound.”
The height and weight of a Whippet are between 18 and 22 inches and 25 and 40 pounds, respectively.
Although most people consider it paper-thin, slender, and underweight, this dog is a champion in lure coursing, racing, agility, and other canine sports.
The Whippet is the fastest dog breed on this list. With its nimble physique, this dog can sprint 200 yards in less than 12 seconds and has been measured at 37 mph.
Despite its athletic nature, a Whippet is also famed for its ability to hold down the couch when someone breaks into its house. Due to its docility and lack of aggression, a Whippet is seldom marketed as a watchdog.
As a human companion, this dog is endearing and lovely. Most Whippets are low-maintenance and quiet, and they spend a lot of time on the couch, making great apartment dogs.
Take a look at this video showing how effortlessly a Whippet performs in a dog show:
10. Sloughi
| Height: | 24 – 29 inches |
| Weight: | 35 – 50 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 15 years |
| Temperament: | Reserved, graceful, sophisticated |
The Sloughi, also referred to as the Arabian Greyhound, is a tall and skinny dog with a reputation for speed. It was originally bred in North Africa and used for hunting a range of wild animals in the North African deserts.
When fully grown, the Sloughi often stands between 24 and 29 inches tall and weighs 35 to 50 pounds.
The Sloughi has a short, dense coat that sheds moderately, thus needs to be brushed once daily.
This dog is available in four coat colors such as cream, mahogany, red, and sandy, with numerous variants in the color of its mask.
Along with its sleek, athletic body, the Sloughi also have superb manners. With close friends and family, it is adoring, yet quite hesitant about strangers.
The Sloughi also has a lot of energy and has to work out frequently to stay happy and healthy. It could grow into a loyal, enduring buddy. However, it can occasionally be rebellious and challenging to manage.
11. Doberman Pinscher
| Height: | 24 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 60 – 100 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
| Temperament: | Alert, loyal, fearless |
Another tall, slender dog breed all the way from Germany is the Doberman Pinscher.
The Doberman Pinscher is a popular dog breed with a powerful and classy appearance. This dog stands between 24 and 28 inches tall and weighs around 60 to 100 pounds.
This dog frequently has a short, smooth, silky coat that is typically black and tan in color. It also comes in different coat colors, including blue and fawn, but red is one of the most uncommon and stunning.
Contrary to how the Dobermans look, most of them are loving dogs that admire young children and are friendly with their entire human family.
They are also highly playful and active dogs, so you will need to walk them frequently or leave them with fantastic toys to keep them engaged and pleased.
Moreover, the Doberman breed almost never shows aggression against its owner; however, it can become slightly more aggressive if improperly trained.
This dog is very protective and makes a great guard dog, but to prevent any problems, it must be trained on when to be vigilant and when to rest.
12. Vizsla
| Height: | 21 – 24 inches |
| Weight: | 44 – 60 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 14 years |
| Temperament: | Vivacious, kind, compassionate |
The next tall and slim dog on our list is called Vizsla, which is Hungarian for “pointer.” This dog breed may reach 24 inches in height and weigh up to 60 pounds.
Similar to Greyhounds, the Vizsla was bred for sport and bird hunting. However, this dog was made for endurance, not speed.
It may not be able to run at maximum speed, but the Vizsla can hunt long distances all day without experiencing any issues. This canine is among the healthiest breeds and has a minimum lifespan of 12 years.
The Vizsla typically has one color — golden rust — although there could be additional variations. It also has a short, smooth coat that doesn’t require much maintenance, although it does need to be brushed once a week.
Additionally, the Vizsla is a loving breed that gets along well with people of all ages and other dogs.
Despite being friendly and playful to strangers, this dog is always ready to defend its family in any circumstance, making it an excellent guard dog.
13. Pointer
| Height: | 23 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 75 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 – 17 years |
| Temperament: | Devoted, hardworking, patient |
Our list of tall, slender dog breeds also includes the Pointer, one of the most obedient and loyal dogs in the canine world. This dog typically stands 23 to 28 inches tall and weighs around 45 to 75 pounds.
The Pointer breed is highly energetic and playful. This dog is always willing to accompany its owner to any athletic event, especially if that activity involves hunting!
This dog does not relate to the Retriever group or the Greyhound family, but it can point at prey and locate it after being shot by the hunter.
Despite its work, the Pointer is a sociable and loving household pet. When raised with kids from an early age, this dog gets along great with them and enjoys spending time with the family.
However, it’s crucial to remember that a Pointer can be a hyperactive dog. Hence, it is best to supervise it around small children to avoid unnecessary mishaps.
Furthermore, this breed is not suited for apartment or urban living. If you are currently in this setting, you should consider this dog because it needs a lot of daily activity and outside time.
14. American English Coonhound
| Height: | 23 – 26 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 65 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 11 – 12 years |
| Temperament: | Sociable, sweet, mellow |
The American English Coonhound is also a tall, slim dog that has been around since the 17th century.
This dog breed descended from the European Foxhound and was originally bred as a hunting dog in the southern part of the United States.
The Coonhound has a special talent that many owners have noticed: it can climb trees. This trait was bred into the dog to pursue raccoons that enjoy scaling tree trunks to avoid being captured.
Despite being bred as hunting dogs, American Coonhounds are not considered aggressive dog breeds. In fact, they get along with kids, strangers, and even other dogs, just like most dogs on this list.
As a result, this dog is an excellent choice for people who are more social and frequently have guests and other dogs around.
This dog, however, has a lot of energy. Thus, it needs a family who will give it plenty of exercise and walks to help it burn off.
It is also quite talkative and boisterous, which means the Coonhound may not be the best choice for people who live in apartments or other settings with many close neighbors.
15. Weimaraner
| Height: | 23 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 55 – 90 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 13 years |
| Temperament: | Friendly, brave, obedient |
The Weimaraner is the next canine that also features a towering height and slender physique. This dog usually measures 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 55 and 90 pounds.
The Weimaraner was also created in Germany, much like the Doberman. It first appeared in the early 19th century and belonged to the nobles of Weimar, who bred it as a pointing dog to hunt large animals.
Moreover, this dog is often referred to as the “gray ghost.” This dog has a short, smooth coat that varies in color from mouse gray to silver gray, which is typically attributed to its price.
The Weimaraner doesn’t require too much coat grooming. It only needs a simple scrub down with a rubber curry brush.
The Weimaraner, on the other hand, needs a high level of physical activity given its history of hunting. It must be kept busy and engaged with activities to prevent destructive behaviors like cobbing and digging.
To keep them from roaming, it also needs to be maintained in a sizable fenced-in backyard.
16. Scottish Deerhound
| Height: | 28 – 32 inches |
| Weight: | 75 – 110 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8 – 11 years |
| Temperament: | Respectful, soft, courteous |
The Scottish Deerhound, a native dog of Scotland, is also included in this list. This breed is thought to have existed before the 16th century and went by several names, such as Irish wolf-dog and Scotch Greyhound.
Around the turn of the 20th century, the Scottish Deerhound made its way to America, and in 1886, it was accepted into the AKC’s hound group.
Today, the Scottish Deerhound is among the large dog breeds, measuring 28 to 32 inches and 75 to 110 pounds. Its body is shrouded in a rough and wiry coat three to four inches thick, perfect for cold weather.
Like the bulk of the canines on our list, the Scottish Deerhound is among the most affectionate dogs in its family. This dog is typically anxious when left alone since it is vulnerable to separation anxiety.
As a sighthound, the Deerhound may exhibit a predatory tendency toward moving objects. The Scottish Deerhound Club of America (SDCA) claims that this dog is capable of reaching speeds of roughly 30 mph.
To keep this dog from getting attracted by the outside world and escaping, a high fence of approximately six feet tall is necessary.
Microchipping your Deerhound may also be useful in case it gets lost.
17. Irish Wolfhound
| Height: | More than 30 inches |
| Weight: | 105 – 120 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 6 – 8 years |
| Temperament: | Easygoing, bold, composed |
The Irish Wolfhound is an old tall, skinny dog breed, similar to Afghan Hounds and Greyhounds.
It was initially employed to hunt wolves in the first century B.C., but over time it has served a variety of purposes, including guarding herds and property, pursuing Irish elk, deer, and boar, as well as engaging in war.
In the 19th century, the Irish Wolfhound was on the verge of extinction after wolves, deer, wild boars, and other prey animals had almost disappeared from Ireland.
Thankfully, the breed was revived, and it is now admired by many and considered one of the most beautiful family dogs.
Nowadays, the Irish Wolfhound is seen as a calm-tempered, sociable, and kid-friendly dog devoted to its owner and family.
This breed also gets along with other dogs, provided it is properly socialized as a puppy.
In addition to early socialization, you should be aware of its rough coat. This dog requires weekly cleaning and brushing with a strong bristle brush to remove the dead hair.
18. Rhodesian Ridgeback
| Height: | 24 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 70 – 85 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
| Temperament: | Polite, caring, cool-headed |
Included also in this list is a product of several breeds: the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
This dog is known to be a cross between the local Khoikhoi dog and the dogs that European settlers brought to South Africa, including Mastiffs, Bloodhounds, Great Danes, and Greyhounds.
The Ridgeback is renowned for having short, wheaten-colored hair. It can, however, come in a variety of tones, from light brown to dark red. It also has dark brown eyes that stand out against its stunning coat.
The American Kennel Club classifies the Rhodesian Ridgeback in the hound group category. This dog has an exceptional athletic body suitable for long distances and speed.
The Rhodesian was designed to chase and pursue enormous predators like lions but not kill them.
Along with its hunting skills, the Rhodesian is typically simple to train and gets along well with both people and other dogs.
However, it can be independent and stubborn, which is why this dog requires strict training and reinforcement. It also calls for daily exercise for a minimum of 45 minutes to keep it from getting bored.
19. English Setter
| Height: | 23 – 27 inches |
| Weight: | 45 – 80 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 10 – 12 years |
| Temperament: | Sociable, mellow, joyful |
This list of tall, skinny dog breeds also includes the English Setter, a breed with a murky past.
Most sources concur that the Setter is probably a descendant of the different land Spaniels carried over from Spain, with the addition of Water Spaniels, Pointers, and Springer Spaniel types.
Despite having no accurate history, the English Setter was formally recognized as a distinct breed.
This is all thanks to Edward Lavarack, who is widely acknowledged as having played a major role in this dog’s development.
According to its breed standard, the English Setter is a large but elegant breed with a symmetrical and solid structure. It weighs 45 to 80 pounds and grows at least 23 to 27 inches.
Additionally, the English Setter is a sociable, cheerful dog that bonds well with family but is probably a little shyer among strangers.
The English Setter, like all dogs, must consequently receive early socialization. Exposing it to people and other animals while young helps ensure it grows into a well-rounded dog.
20. German Longhaired Pointer
| Height: | 22 – 28 inches |
| Weight: | 55 – 80 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 12 –14 years |
| Temperament: | Versatile, peaceful, family-oriented |
The German Longhaired Pointer (GLP) is the last pup on our list of dogs with tall and skinny bodies.
The German Longhaired Pointer was originally developed as a pointing dog. However, a lot of owners discovered that the breed was unnecessarily slow and notoriously stubborn.
In an effort to get rid of these unfavorable traits, breeders started mating GLPs with local hunter dogs as well as Pointers and Setters from other European countries.
The modern GLP is known as a multipurpose gundog. This dog can perform a wide range of tasks in the field, including tracking, pointing, and retrieving prey from the water, upland, and woodland settings.
In addition to being a skilled gundog, the German Longhaired Pointer is a loving and gentle breed that might make a perfect family dog, as long as it consistently gets plenty of exercise.
As an active dog, the German longhaired Pointer also requires regular upkeep.
Its lengthy, thin coat is prone to acquiring dirt and debris from regular field activity; therefore, it should be trimmed to prevent discomfort.
Final Thoughts
These skinny, tall dogs on this list are no different from other dog breeds. They may also make good pets and guard dogs with their distinct traits.
If you’re considering adding a tall, slender dog to your household, be sure to do your research first; not every breed on this list may be a good fit for you.
However, if you can give them a great deal of affection and exercise, there is no doubt that you two will get along well and spend a lot of happy years together.
If you have any queries regarding these tall, skinny dogs, don’t hesitate to write them down in the comments section. It would be our pleasure to assist you!
