Last week, Guinness World Records announced the passing of Bobi, the world’s oldest known dog, at the age of 31 years and 165 days. Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, lived his entire life in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros with his devoted owner Leonel Costa and family.
The announcement came in the wake of Bobi being officially recognized as the oldest dog in February, following a brief challenge from a 23-year-old Chihuahua named Spike. With Bobi’s demise, Spike, an Ohio-born canine, now holds the title of the oldest known living dog.
Bobi’s remarkable longevity, equivalent to around 86 in dog years, defied the typical life expectancy of his breed, known for being farm and guardian dogs with a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. His age was meticulously verified through records dating back to his 1992 registration with a veterinary medical service in Leiria, Portugal, and entries in a government-owned pet database.
Born in a litter of four puppies, Bobi narrowly escaped being euthanized like his siblings, who were deemed excessive by Costa’s parents. Costa, having hidden Bobi, prevented the unfortunate fate of the other pups, and the dog went on to live a free and unencumbered life.
Bobi’s carefree existence, characterized by not being tethered or leashed, a diet of human food, and ample water, contributed to his extraordinary age. Costa attributed Bobi’s longevity to his serene and tranquil lifestyle.
In a touching celebration of Bobi’s 31st birthday in May, Leonel Costa hosted a traditional Portuguese party attended by over 100 guests, marking the culmination of a life well-lived for the world’s oldest known dog.
