In the quiet, sun-drenched village of Conqueiros, Portugal, lived a dog whose life stretched beyond the bounds of ordinary canine existence. His name was Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed typically known for its livestock guarding prowess and a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. Yet, Bobi defied all expectations, becoming a global phenomenon by reaching the astonishing, and at times controversial, age of 30.
Bobi’s story began in 1992, almost as a miracle. He was born in an outbuilding where the Costa family stored wood, one of four male pups. The family already had many animals, and the difficult decision was made to put the puppies down. Eight-year-old Leonel Costa, Bobi’s future owner, vividly remembers the heartbreak. However, fate intervened. Bobi, camouflaged by the wood, was overlooked. When Leonel’s parents eventually discovered the pup, it was too late to go through with their initial plan – Bobi had already opened his eyes, a clear sign to them that he was meant to live. And so, Bobi became a cherished, if secretly kept, member of the family.
His life with the Costa family was one of freedom and comfort. Unlike many working dogs of his breed, Bobi was never chained or kept on a leash. He roamed freely around their property and the surrounding countryside, enjoying the fresh air and the peaceful environment. Leonel Costa often attributed Bobi’s extraordinary longevity to this calm, stress-free upbringing, coupled with his unique diet. Bobi famously ate “human food,” sharing meals with the family, which Leonel believed contributed significantly to his long life. The food was always soaked in water to remove seasonings, a simple practice that may have aided his digestion. He also drank copious amounts of water, staying well-hydrated.
As the years turned into decades, Bobi continued to thrive. While his eyesight eventually worsened and his gait became a little wobbly, he remained largely active and content. He preferred to rest more, often by the warm fireplace on colder days, but he still loved his walks and the familiar scents of his home. His existence was a quiet testament to a life lived simply, surrounded by love.
The world took notice when Bobi was officially recognized by Guinness World Records as not only the oldest living dog but also the oldest dog ever, reaching the incredible age of 30 years and 266 days in early 2023. This broke a record held for nearly a century by an Australian cattle dog named Bluey, who died in 1939 at 29 years and five months. The news of Bobi’s incredible age captivated hearts globally, sparking conversations about canine longevity and the profound bond between humans and their pets. His 31st birthday celebration in 2023 was a grand affair, attended by over a hundred guests, a true testament to the love and admiration he garnered.
While Bobi’s record was later reviewed and ultimately stripped due to questions about the conclusive evidence, his story remains a deeply moving one. Regardless of the precise number, Bobi lived a life of remarkable length, filled with comfort, freedom, and the unwavering affection of his family.
Bobi passed away peacefully in October 2023, reportedly at the age of 31 years and 165 days. His passing brought sorrow to his family and to the countless admirers he had gained worldwide. Meet Bobi: The world’s oldest dog, living to the remarkable age of 30. His legacy is not just about a number on a record book, but about the profound love of a family for their beloved companion, and the miraculous, enduring spirit of a dog who lived a full, rich life far beyond what was ever expected.
