Bobi, a remarkable Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo, who held the distinguished title of the world’s oldest dog according to the Guinness World Records, has sadly passed away in Portugal at the age of 31, equivalent to an astounding 217 in dog years.
Leonel Costa, Bobi’s devoted owner, announced the dog’s peaceful passing at a veterinary hospital over the weekend. Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo Portuguese dog, lived an astonishing 31 years and 165 days, a feat that left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew him.
Karen Becker, a respected veterinarian who had the privilege of meeting Bobi on several occasions, was the first to convey the news of his passing via social media, stating, “Despite outliving every dog in history, his 11,478 days on earth would never be enough for those who loved him. Godspeed, Bobi.”
Bobi’s breed, often employed as sheepdogs, typically enjoy a lifespan of 10 to 14 years. However, Bobi’s extraordinary longevity earned him the title of the world’s oldest dog earlier this year, shattering a previous record held since 1939 by an Australian cattle dog who lived to the age of 29 years and five months.
Bobi’s entire life was spent in the charming village of Conqueiros in central Portugal, where he basked in the serenity of the countryside, enjoyed fresh air, and received an abundance of affection from the community. Costa, his loving owner, revealed that Bobi was never confined by a leash, and his nourishment was of the highest quality.
Guinness World Records expressed their condolences in a statement, stating, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Bobi, the world’s oldest dog ever.” The statement also noted that more than 100 people gathered to celebrate Bobi’s 31st birthday earlier this year, a testament to the impact he had on those fortunate enough to share in his remarkable journey.
The loss of Bobi, the age-defying Portuguese Rafeiro do Alentejo, leaves a void not only in the hearts of his devoted owner and the community of Conqueiros but also in the annals of world record-holding canines, where his extraordinary life will forever be celebrated.
