My1sttoday Science — The world’s oldest dog and a Guinness World Record holder, Bobi, has passed away at the age of 31.
Pet enthusiasts around the world mourned the passing of Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, just months after celebrating his 31st birthday. Dr. Karen Becker, a veterinarian who had the privilege of meeting Bobi on several occasions, confirmed the beloved canine’s death in a heartfelt Facebook tribute.
Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, passed away on October 21 at his lifelong home in Conqueiros, Portugal.
Born on May 11, 1992, Bobi’s remarkable journey on this planet came to an end at the age of 31 years and 165 days, a striking contrast to the average dog’s lifespan of 10 to 13 years. Guinness World Records had officially recognized him as the world’s oldest living and oldest-ever dog on February 2, 2023.
Bobi’s remarkable longevity was corroborated not only by Guinness but also by the Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leiria and the SIAC, a pet database managed by Portugal’s national union of veterinarians. He shattered the previous record set by an Australian cattle dog named Bluey, who lived to be 29 years and 5 months old.
Bobi’s journey through time was truly extraordinary, as he witnessed events such as the World Trade Center attacks in 1993 and on September 11, 2001, six U.S. presidencies, and the ascension of King Charles III to the British throne.
Bobi’s extraordinary life was even more remarkable considering that he was fortunate to survive his first birthday.
He was born into a litter of four puppies, which the Costa family initially considered giving away due to their existing menagerie of animals. Tragically, it was customary at the time to bury unwanted animals. However, Bobi’s destiny took a different path.
When his parents took the other puppies away, they accidentally left Bobi hidden in a woodpile. Discovered by Leonel and his brother, they kept Bobi’s existence a secret from their parents. By the time Bobi was found, it was too late to part with him, so he became a cherished member of the Costa family.
Leonel Costa, Bobi’s owner, attributed his dog’s long and healthy life to factors such as good nutrition, constant contact with nature, the freedom to explore his surroundings, regular veterinary care, and, above all, love.
According to Dr. Becker’s Facebook post, Bobi was never tethered or leashed and enjoyed a diet of exclusively human food, as the Costas shared their meals with him, making sure to rinse off any seasonings.
Bobi’s genes might have also played a role in his longevity, as his mother, Gira, lived to the age of 18, and another family dog, Chicote, reached the impressive age of 22.
Nonetheless, Leonel described Bobi as a truly unique companion, expressing gratitude for the 30 years they were fortunate to share together. In his words, Bobi had been a “warrior” throughout his life, defying the odds in a way only he could explain if he could speak.