Croatia launches Guinness World Record attempt for largest Dalmatian dog art exhibition

House Dalmatian Dog in Šibenik (Photo: Grad Šibenik)

An ambitious national art initiative aiming to secure a Guinness World Record for the largest exhibition of Dalmatian dog paintings has been announced in Croatia.

The project is being led by the House of the Dalmatian Dog, a unique museum in Šibenik dedicated to the iconic Croatian breed.

It invites kindergartens and primary schools across the country to take part in what organisers describe as the “most spotted” artistic undertaking to date.

The initiative centres on children’s creativity, encouraging young participants to produce artworks featuring the Dalmatian dog.

The completed works will form part of a major exhibition set to take place in Šibenik on 14 September 2026, where the official Guinness World Record attempt will be made.

House Dalmatian Dog in Šibenik (Photo: Grad Šibenik)

Participation guidelines are straightforward. Children are required to create paintings on canvases approximately 35 x 50 cm in size, using traditional painting techniques. Materials such as brushes, markers, pastels and similar painting tools are permitted.

Each artwork must feature at least one Dalmatian dog, while the rest of the composition is left entirely to the imagination of the young artists. Techniques such as pencil drawing or collage are not allowed.

Completed works must be submitted by 10 June 2026 to an address in Zagreb. A professional jury made up of art educators will evaluate the entries and award prizes for the most creative pieces.

The project aims to connect education, art and cultural heritage through the Dalmatian dog, a breed widely recognised as a symbol of Croatia around the world.

Organisers say the initiative is designed not only to attempt a world record but also to foster creativity among children and strengthen awareness of national identity.

House Dalmatian Dog in Šibenik (Photo: Grad Šibenik)

The project is supported by sponsors including Pet Centar and Purina Pro Plan.

It is held under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism and Sport of Croatia, the Croatian National Tourist Board, and the city of Šibenik, alongside regional and local tourist boards.

Full details, application forms and competition rules are available on the project website: www.tockastirekord.com.

Organisers are calling on schools and kindergartens across Croatia to take part and contribute a “spot” to what could become a record-breaking national achievement.