INTRODUCTION + FACTS I | FACTS II | FACTS III | FACTS IV | FACTS V

Sometimes it's OK to break things—especially when you're breaking Guinness World Records! Each week between 1,200 and 1,500 people propose to set a record. But only the best succeed. Starting this month, NG Kids will be presenting our favorites. Maybe the records will inspire you to break something yourself!

DOG-EARED Listen up! Mr. Jeffries the bassett hound has the longest dog ears in the world. Recorded at 11.5 inches (29.2 centimeters) each, his ears are insured for $48,000. No wonder. Mr. Jeffries is always tripping over his ears or dragging them in his food, according to owner Phil Jeffries of Southwick, West Sussex, in the United Kingdom. And Mr. Jeffries, whose full name is Knightsfollie Ladiesman, isn't the only famous family member: His grandfather Biggles was the face of Hush Puppies shoes! Next fact >>

Think you have what it takes to be a Guinness World Record holder?

Write to Guinness World Records (GWR) and tell them what you want to do. (Check out GWR's "Be a Record Breaker" for details.)

If you want to break an existing record, GWR will tell you what the current record is, what rules you must follow, and what evidence you must gather.

If you want to set a record that's never been set before, GWR will first decide if they would like such a record attempted. If they do, they will create rules for you to follow.

Text by B.F. Summers
Photograph of goat © Guinness World Records 2003
Photograph of Mr. Jeffries courtesy Phil Jeffries / Guinness World Records 2003