Oldest Dog in the World
Bobi, the Portuguese mastiff, holds the record as the world’s oldest dog ever, living to 31 years and 165 days. Born in 1992, his owner credits good food, fresh air, and love for his remarkable longevity. Bobi’s story celebrates the extraordinary bond between humans and their loyal canine companions.
A Historic Record Breaker
It was on February 1, 2023, that the world learned about Bobi, a dog who had not only claimed the title of the oldest living dog but had also earned the prestigious recognition of being the oldest dog ever recorded. At an astounding 30 years and 266 days old, Bobi’s longevity is truly exceptional.
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Bobi’s Humble Beginning
Bobi’s journey began on May 11, 1992, when he was born into the Costa family in the rural village of Conqueiros, located in Leiria, Portugal. Little did anyone know at the time that Bobi would go on to become a living legend.
A Breed with Modest Life Expectancy
Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, belongs to a breed of livestock guardian dogs. These dogs typically have an average life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. Bobi’s extraordinary age defied the expectations for his breed.
Breaking a Century-Old Record
Before Bobi’s remarkable achievement, the title of the oldest dog ever was held by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog who lived to be 29 years and 5 months old (1910-1939). Bobi’s record is a testament to his incredible longevity.
Verified and Authenticated
Bobi’s age is not a matter of dispute. In 1992, he was officially registered with the Serviço Medico-Veterinário do Município de Leiria (Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leiria), confirming his birth date. Furthermore, his age has been verified by SIAC, a pet database authorized by the Portuguese government and managed by the SNMV (Sindicato Nacional dos Médicos Veterinários; National Union of Veterinarians).
A Miraculous Twist of Fate
Bobi’s journey is nothing short of miraculous. At birth, he was one of four male pups born in an outbuilding where the Costa family stored wood. At that time, Leonel Costa, now aged 38, was just eight years old. His father, a hunter, made the difficult decision to find new homes for the puppies due to the family’s existing menagerie of animals.
The Pup Left Behind
Tragically, due to the norms of the time, the remaining pups were considered expendable and were intended to be buried to prevent their survival. The day after their birth, while their mother, Gira, was away, Leonel’s parents collected the puppies. In their haste, they unknowingly left one behind.
Bobi’s Hidden Existence
Bobi’s survival can be attributed to a fortunate twist of fate. Disguised amongst the stored wood, he escaped the same fate as his siblings. When Leonel and his brothers discovered Bobi, they decided to keep his existence a secret.
Bobi’s Eyes Open
Puppies typically open their eyes one to two weeks after birth. However, Bobi opened his eyes while in the care of the Costa family. This discovery led to a dramatic turn of events.
Welcoming Bobi into the Family
Once Bobi’s parents realized that the children were aware of Bobi’s existence, they could no longer bury him. Bobi officially became a part of the Costa family.
Bobi’s Longevity Secrets
The key to Bobi’s remarkable longevity remains a mystery. However, Leonel believes that the serene and peaceful environment in which Bobi has lived, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, has played a significant role. Bobi has never been chained or leashed, and he has always enjoyed the freedom of the forests and farmland surrounding the Costa family home.
A Social Canine Companion
Bobi’s sociable nature can be attributed to growing up with a variety of animals. Over the years, he has shared his home with many furry and feathered friends. His interactions with other animals have undoubtedly contributed to his friendly disposition.
A Gentle Retreat in Old Age
In his twilight years, Bobi has become less adventurous. His ageing legs make walking difficult, and he often spends his time in the backyard with his four feline companions. His eyesight, too, has deteriorated, leading to occasional collisions with obstacles.
Bobi’s Dietary Choices
Bobi’s diet has always been unique. He has been accustomed to ‘human food’ throughout his life. According to Leonel, Bobi prefers their food over traditional pet food, choosing between a can of animal food and a piece of meat. He has a particular liking for human food, and it seems to have served him well.
A Healthy and Resilient Life
For the most part, Bobi has enjoyed good health throughout his long life. In 2018, he had a health scare when he suddenly collapsed due to breathing difficulties, but he managed to pull through. Regular veterinary check-ups have consistently shown that he is doing well for his advanced age.
Bobi: A Living Reminder
Bobi is more than just a record-breaking dog; he is the last of a generation of animals in the Costa family. He serves as a living reminder of times gone by and of family members who have passed away. To Leonel, Bobi represents the generations that have come and gone.
Conclusion
As Bobi approaches his 31st birthday in May, he does so as the oldest verified dog ever, blissfully unaware of the historic record he holds. His remarkable journey is an inspiration, a testament to the love and care of the Costa family, and a celebration of the enduring bond between humans and their loyal canine companions.Bobi’s story reminds us of the extraordinary bond between humans and dogs and the remarkable journeys they embark on together.
FAQs
Q. What is the breed of Bobi, the oldest dog ever recorded?
A. Bobi is a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a livestock guardian dog breed.
Q. What was the previous record for the oldest dog ever recorded?
A. The previous record was held by Bluey, an Australian cattle-dog who lived to be 29 years and 5 months old.
Q. What contributed to Bobi’s longevity?
A. Bobi’s serene environment, a diet of human food, and a history of freedom and sociability with other animals have likely played a role.
Q. Has Bobi faced any significant health issues in his old age?
A. In 2018, Bobi experienced a health scare when he suddenly collapsed due to breathing difficulties, but he recovered.
Q. How did Bobi’s discovery and inclusion in the Costa family occur?
A. Bobi was initially left behind by Leonel’s parents, but his survival was discovered by the children, leading to his inclusion in the family.
