The Guinness World Records has cast doubt on the age of Bobi, a dog previously celebrated as the world’s oldest. Bobi, a Rafeiro breed from Portugal, allegedly lived to be over 31 years old, surpassing the previous record held by an Australian cattle dog named Bluey. However, discrepancies have emerged, leading to the temporary suspension of his titles.
Leonel Costa walks the dog, Bobi, that broke the record for oldest dog ever at 30 years-old, at Conqueiros, in Leiria, Portugal, on February 4, 2023. (Reuters)
Bobi’s record-setting age was initially confirmed at 31 years and 165 days. This figure put him ahead of Bluey, who lived for 29 years and 5 months until 1939. The average lifespan for a Rafeiro, a Portuguese livestock guard dog, is typically 12 to 14 years, making Bobi’s case exceptional.
New record: Oldest dog EVER – Bobi at 30 years and 266 days 🐶
The secrets to a long life, according to human Leonel Costa, is free roaming, human food and socialising with other animals 🥰️ pic.twitter.com/Ur5c2Gh8yb
— Guinness World Records (@GWR) February 2, 2023
The decision by Guinness World Records to pause the validation of Bobi’s age comes amidst rising doubts. Notably, differences in Bobi’s appearance in various photographs have sparked skepticism. Furthermore, a Lisbon veterinarian expressed surprise at Bobi’s physical condition, which did not align with typical signs of advanced age in dogs.
Guinness World Records withdraws the title of world’s oldest dog Bobi, who died last year at the age of 31, after vets flag that would have made him 200 in human years https://t.co/BgyfgpyM5w pic.twitter.com/P7KUrVzwI2
— Daily Mail U.K. (@DailyMailUK) January 16, 2024
Bobi’s story began in a woodshed in Conqueiros, Portugal, where he narrowly escaped being given away due to the Costa family’s large number of pets. Leonel Costa, Bobi’s owner, attributes his long life to the peaceful rural environment and a diverse diet. Throughout his life, Bobi enjoyed the freedom of the woods and later relaxed with family cats in his old age.
As Guinness World Records conducts its review, the dog-loving community eagerly awaits the final verdict on whether Bobi truly was the oldest dog in recorded history.
