World’s Oldest Dog, Bobi, Passes Away at Age 31

On Monday, the owner of Bobi, the world’s oldest dog, announced the passing of the 31-year-old canine. Bobi had held the Guinness World Record since February 2, when he was certified as the world’s oldest dog, taking the title from Bluey, an Australian cattle dog who died in 1939 at the age of 29.

Bobi passed away on Saturday in a veterinary hospital. His owner, Leonel Costa, attributed Bobi’s long life to a combination of good food, fresh air, and lots of love. Costa had previously noted that the calm, peaceful environment of the farm in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros, where Bobi lived with Costa and four cats, had also contributed to Bobi’s longevity.

Rafeiro do Alentejo dogs, Bobi’s breed, have an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Costa noted that Bobi’s diet of human food had also contributed to his long life. In May, more than 100 people from around the world attended a 31st birthday celebration for Bobi.

Bobi’s passing marks the end of an era, as he had held the Guinness World Record for the oldest dog for almost a century. He will be remembered fondly by his owner and all those who had the pleasure of meeting him.