World’s oldest dog marks 31st birthday

CONQUEIROS, Portugal — The world’s oldest dog recently celebrated his 31st birthday, according to Guinness World Records.

Bobi — a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed of Portuguese dog — celebrated during a party Saturday at his home in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros, where has lived his entire life.

More than 100 people attended the “very traditional” Portuguese party, owner Leonel Costa said.

Local meats and fish were served to up to 100 guests, with extra for Bobi, who eats only human food. A dance troupe also performed, with Bobi participating in one of its routines.

Costa has owned several senior dogs in the past, including Bobi’s mother, Gira, who lived to 18. However, Costa said he never imagined any of his dogs would reach their 30s.

“Bobi is one of a kind,” he said.

One of the biggest contributing factors to Bobi’s longevity is the “calm, peaceful environment” in which he lives, according to Costa.

Throughout his life, Bobi has freely roamed the forests surrounding the Costa house. He has never been chained or leashed.

The “very sociable” dog was never lonely because he grew up surrounded by many other animals, Costa said.

Bobi’s birth date has been confirmed by the Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leiria, which registered him in 1992.