The Guinness World Records books are filled with jaw-dropping feats and record-breaking accomplishments that range from awe-inspiring to quirky. Check out these outstanding Guinness World Records set by animals, from the smallest dog in the world to the most basketballs slam-dunked by a Parrot in a minute!
Smallest Dog in the World
Milly, a Chihuahua residing in Dorado, Puerto Rico, has earned the Guinness World Record for being the smallest dog in the world in terms of height. She is a miniscule 3.8 inches tall—that’s shorter than many smartphones! Milly lives a pampered life; she has her own baby crib to sleep in and is under constant supervision by her protective pet parents. Milly’s big personality won’t be stopped, though—she tries to convince her parents that she should be allowed to do what she wants, despite her tiny stature.
Smallest Cat in the World
The smallest cat in the world was measured at 2.75 inches tall and 7.5 inches long in Taylorsville, Illinois. Her name was Tinker Toy, and she earned her spot in the Guinness World Records for being the world’s smallest cat at the age of 2.5 years. She was born on December 25, 1990, as the runt of the litter and passed away in November, 1997. Not much is known about this private kitty. She spent her life avoiding the spotlight and creating an air of mystery around her fame. Without even a picture left behind, Tinker Toy has truly become a legend in pet world records.
Longest Tail on a Dog
In the book of Guinness World Records for the longest tail on a dog is a Dutch dog named Keon. He and his family reside in Westerlo, Belgium, where he is known to be the gentlest of giants. The Irish Wolfhound’s tail measures 30.2 inches, starting from the top of the tail bone to the tip, not including fur. Keon is very much a family dog and spends his time with his parents and human siblings enjoying the outdoors.
Longest Cat in the World
Ludo, a Maine Coon cat from Wakefield, United Kingdom, has the Guinness World Record for longest cat, measuring 3 feet, 10.59 inches. He earned this title on October 16, 2015, and has gone unchallenged thus far. While he wins accolades for his size, it is not always easy for Ludo. His size makes him fairly clumsy and a poor hide-and-go-seek participant, despite his best efforts. Regardless of these shortcomings, his parents love him dearly and remind him every day that not every cat holds a Guinness World Record.
World’s Tallest Horse
The world’s largest horse is Big Jake, a 15-year-old Belgian gelding that measures an incredible 20 hands, 2.75 inches (82.75 inches). He currently resides at Smokey Hollows Farms in Poynette, Wisconsin. This gentle giant weighs in at around 2600 pounds and consumes a bale and a half of hay along with approximately 32 quarts of oats a day. These days he is making the most of his retirement by pursuing his hobby of passion, hairdressing. Seriously, this horse loves playing with hair. While there may not be a future in it, he just enjoys that his fans and family let him play around with their hair for practice.
Highest Horse Jump
The highest jump ever cleared by a horse and rider has been a long-held record since February 5, 1949. The jump was accomplished by Huaso the horse and rider Captain Alberto Larraguibel Morales. Believe it or not, Huaso wasn’t always such a hotshot at sports. Originally known as Faithful, Huaso started his career out as a struggling racehorse. It was evident that this was not his calling, so he was sold to Captain Morales. With a new name, Huaso entered the world of dressage, but suffered a serious injury that ended his newfound career path. It was finally decided that Huaso would truly shine at showjumping, and at 16 years old, he cleared a mind-blowing 8-foot, 1.25 inch jump. After such a feat, Captain Morales knew Huaso should end on a high note and immediately retired him. Huaso spent the rest of his life enjoying being a world-record-setting horse until the ripe age of 29.
Highest Bar Jump by a Llama
Caspa, a llama from Northwich in the United Kingdom, set the record for the highest bar jump by a llama on June 14, 2015, by clearing a jump of 3 feet, 8.5 inches. While fame is often associated with bad behavior and power trips, it has had the opposite effect for this llama. Because Caspa previously suffered from a foul temper that manifested itself in a spitting and kicking problem, Caspa’s owner knew the llama needed a change. Through extensive training, Caspa not only transformed his reputation, but also his attitude. Today, he serves as inspiration to all llamas everywhere; if you can dream it, you can be it!
Longest Fur on a Rabbit
Franchesca the Angora rabbit set the Guinness World Record for the longest fur on a rabbit, at a whopping 14.37 inches. Often confused for a Pekingese dog, Franchesca’s hair at its longest is longer than a foot-long sub! She set the record on August 17, 2014, and has yet to be bested. These days, Franchesca has traded in her fame and her long, lustrous locks for the family life—she enjoys spending quality time with her four babies.
Fastest Tortoise
Bertie set the record for the fastest tortoise at Adventure Valley in Brasside, Durham, United Kingdom. On July 9, 2014, Bertie was clocked at 0.28 meters per second, or 0.92 feet per second. He whizzed past the previous record, which was held by Charlie at 0.125 meters per second, or 0.41 feet per second. Charlie’s record had gone unchallenged since 1977. Bertie’s accomplishment has made him a celebrity at Adventure Valley, where he lives with his long-time girlfriend, Shelly, in a luxurious enclosure. The two currently enjoy spending their days together hanging out and indulging in strawberries. No word yet on whether they are planning any exciting additions to the family!
One Parrot, Two World Records
Held by the same parrot, these Guinness World Records were set by Zac the Macaw from San Jose, California. Zac can open 35 cans in 60 seconds, and slam-dunked 22 balls in 60 seconds. Those are not his only skills—he is also part of a troupe of performing birds called, “Happy Birds.” During the show, Zac can be found riding bicycles, scooters and skateboards as well as performing such feats as rolling over, raising flags and speaking over 100 words. It’s no wonder this parrot has two Guinness World Records!
Kendall Curley, BeChewy Editorial Assistant
As a former Connecticut resident, Kendall is coming to terms with the lack of seasons in Florida by gaining an appreciation for all the activities that the Florida climate allows year-round. When she is not hard at work at Chewy, she can be found going on adventures with her dog, Pip, or going horseback riding with her friends. She is an avid fosterer of dogs and spends an inordinate amount of time picking dog hair off of her clothes and belongings.
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