May 28, 2025, 9:06 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Since the weekend, the world—and the Guinness Book of World Records—has gained a new animal record. During a well-known dog show, the record for the most dogs simultaneously sitting in one place was set.
Never before have so many dogs sat at once! (At least not documented.) During the “Dogs & Fun” fair in Dortmund over the weekend, 122 dogs and their owners set the world record for the most dogs sitting simultaneously. Previously, never had so many dogs been made to sit at one location. A total of 132 dogs of various breeds, sizes, and ages gathered in front of the Dortmund fair to witness the world record attempt. However, puppies and dogs younger than one year were excluded.
A Quite Big Challenge
With this, the dogs far exceeded the minimum requirement of 100 dogs. But this record attempt demanded more than mere presence. The dogs had to sit on command and hold the position for 30 seconds. Radio host Tim Schmutzler from Radio 91.2 addressed exactly what many dog owners were likely thinking—and confirmed on-site. “It’s not that easy,” he said.
By 1:45 p.m., it was accomplished: 122 dogs had set the world record for the most dogs sitting simultaneously at one location. “We are overwhelmed by the response and commitment of the dog owners and their dogs and are very pleased with this successful event,” said Dr. Andrea Schad, veterinarian and expert in dog nutrition at Mars Pet Nutrition Germany.
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Nearly 50 Animal Record Applications Submitted Monthly to Guinness Book
With the new world record, the 122 dogs are now in good company. On average, about 50 animal record applications are submitted monthly to the creators of the Guinness Book of Records, as a spokesperson explained to PETBOOK upon request. “This includes a variety of categories related to animals.” Therefore, according to the Guinness World Records (GWR) website, interested parties typically wait about three months for their application to be processed.
Impatient applicants can expedite this process for a fee of about 700 euros. “If you opt for priority review of the evidence, it will be reviewed within five business days (instead of the usual twelve weeks) after all evidence is received,” said the GWR spokesperson. However, she did not disclose how this high fee is calculated.
Why There Is No Heaviest or Lightest Pet Category in the Guinness Book
Since records can quickly drift into extremes, they do not accept record applications that could be harmful to animals, the spokesperson emphasized. “For animal welfare reasons, we do not accept applications for the heaviest or lightest pet.”
While it is assumed that the well-being of the animal is a priority for most owners, there is still a risk that some owners might overfeed or underfeed their pets in a misguided quest for recognition. To ensure animal welfare is paramount in the case of animal records, they generally work with many different experts with diverse expertise.