The world’s oldest dog, Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo who lived his whole life in Conqueiros, Portugal, has passed away at the age of 31 years and 163 days old.
Bobi has made headlines for many years now as people recognise him as the oldest-known dog in the world. Incredibly, he celebrated his 31st birthday in March.
Bobi’s status as the oldest dog on record in the world was verified by Guinness World Records in February this year. He was also confirmed as the oldest dog on record to live past the age of 30 years old.
His death was announced by veterinarian Dr Karen Becker, who met Bobi on several occasions. While his death marks a sad occasion for many, Bobi brought joy and happiness to people all over the world merely for existing, and that’s something worth celebrating.
Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, has passed away – 31 peaceful years
We reported on Bobi back in May this year to join many people around the world celebrating his incredible 31st birthday.
Dr Karen Becker wrote on social media, “Despite outliving every dog in history, his 11,478 days on earth would never be enough, for those who loved him”.
Bobi’s owner, Leonel Costa, who has had Bobi as a pet and companion since he was just 8 years old, threw Bobi a “very traditional” Portuguese party to mark the occasion, which over 100 people attended.
Mr Costa said that one of the biggest reasons Bobi has lived as long as he has is down to the “calm, peaceful environment” that he lives in.
When Dr Becker asked Leonel Costa what the recipe was for his exceptionally long life, he said, “Good nutrition, constant contact with nature, freedom to discover his environment, consistent veterinary care, and love. Bobi knows he’s deeply loved”.
A Guinness World Record holder – the world’s oldest dog and the oldest dog on record
When Bobi’s titles as the world’s oldest living dog and the oldest dog on record were confirmed back in February, he beat an almost century-old record for the latter title.
The previous record holder was Bluey, a female Australian Cattle Dog who lived in Victoria, Australia. She was put down in 1939 at the age of 29 years and five months. Bobi would go on 83 years later to take her World Record title.
Bobi’s big age of 31 was confirmed by the Portuguese government’s pet database, which is managed by the National Union of Veterinarians.
Now that Bobi has passed, the title of the world’s oldest living dog will pass on to another, but Bobi’s successor has not yet been confirmed.
Bobi’s life – a miraculous start to a long and happy life
Bobi spent his whole life on the west coast of Portugal in a town called Conqueiros. Leonel Costa was just 8 years old when Bobi was born with three siblings in an outbuilding.
Costa’s parents said they had too many animals and had to put the puppies down, but miraculously, Bobi escaped his fate.
Mr Costa and his brothers kept Bobi’s existence a secret from their parents until he was eventually discovered and embraced as part of the family.
Rest in peace, Bobi!