This is Bobi, the oldest dog in the world. He recently turned 31 years old. By human standards, this is 217 years old. Bobby lives in the Portuguese village of Conqueiros with his owner Leonel Costa and four cats.

Bobby is also a Guinness World Record holder. Last year, he broke the world record for long-lived dogs. For more than 80 years, he belonged to an Australian shepherd named Bluey. He died in 1939, having lived to be 29 years old.

Bobi is a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo. This is a Portuguese guard dog. Usually, representatives of this breed live up to 14 years. But Bobi’s mom lived to be 18. And the dog feels great even at the age of 31. So what is the secret of his longevity?

Leonel believes that it is natural food, freedom, and the fact that Bobi is surrounded by love and care.

Leonel Costa, dog’s owner:

I think food is an important condition, and also the fact that he was never put on a chain or leash. He has always lived in the wild. It’s a rural area, and he walked in the woods, feeling a freedom he wouldn’t have had in a city or an apartment. And I also think that the love we’ve given him his whole life has definitely helped him achieve longevity.

Bobby’s veterinarian also has an explanation.

Soraya Lopish, veterinarian:

He has no anxiety, he leads a normal dog life. Bobby can spend time outdoors, he gets daily exercise, and he has a sociable owner who doesn’t give him any trouble. Bobby also has contact with other animals.

After breaking the world record, Bobby became famous. He was visited by fans from Canada, the United States, Italy, France, and even Japan. But nothing has changed for the dog. He just lives his life in peace.

Leonel Costa, the dog’s owner:

He still goes for walks and eats well. He has a great appetite. Bobby plays a lot with our cats, so I’m happy. I think he’s happy in his own way, which means I’m happy too.

Source: NTD