Hundreds of dachshunds have set a new Guinness World Record for the largest dachshund dog walk, with 342 of the diminutive dogs gathering at Marble Hill House in Twickenham, south-west London. The event, which beat the required number of 250, was held by pet insurer Agria in partnership with English Heritage and supported by The Kennel Club.
After the record was confirmed, some of the wagging winners posed for photos alongside the official certificate of their achievement. Guinness World Records adjudicator Juliet Dawson described the owners as "a truly devoted bunch". A chorus of excited barks filled the air as dogs and their owners waited near the start line for the walk.
Among those attending were dogs in cones, bows, colourful harnesses and even puppy pushchairs. Checks and procedures were in place for Guinness World Records officials, with blue wristbands used for those who wanted their dogs to be counted in the challenge.
The event raised funds for animal rescue and rehoming centres. Fundraising events also took place in two other English Heritage locations as well as in Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Norway and Sweden. A total of £20,000 will be given to the centres from funds raised at the events.
Vicki Wentworth, chief executive at Agria, said: "We're absolutely thrilled to have won the Guinness World Records title. It's an incredible achievement, and it was an absolute pleasure to watch so many passionate people and pups come together to help support a great cause."
