According to a formal announcement made by Guinness World Records (GWR) on Thursday, the late Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo, who reportedly passed away last year at the age of 31, has been disqualified from holding the title of the world’s oldest dog.
Bobi had previously held this title until it was provisionally revoked in January pending a thorough investigation by GWR.
Subsequently, GWR has determined that there is insufficient evidence to substantiate Bobi’s claim as the record holder.
In a statement released on Thursday, Mark McKinley, the director of records at GWR, expressed the organization’s deep commitment to rigorously verifying its record holders.
McKinley stated that in response to concerns raised by veterinarians, experts, and various public discussions, as well as the outcomes of investigations conducted by certain media entities, GWR deemed it necessary to initiate a review of Bobi’s record.
GWR Review: Bobi’s Age Puzzle and the Search for Certainty
Mark McKinley stated, “Central to Bobi’s evidence was microchip data sourced from the Portuguese government database, the SIAC, which it transpires, when chipped in 2022, did not require proof of age for dogs born before 2008.”
He further commented, “With the additional veterinary statement provided as evidence for Bobi’s age also citing this microchip data, we’re left with no conclusive evidence which can definitively prove Bobi’s date of birth.”
According to GWR, Bobi’s owner has been informed of the results of the review and the organization has indicated its willingness to evaluate any additional evidence that may be submitted.
Presently, the holder of the title for the oldest dog ever is undetermined.
Bobi’s Path to Record-breaking Glory
Bobi passed away in October 2023, shortly after commemorating what was purportedly his 31st birthday.
Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed recognized for its role in livestock protection by the American Kennel Club, had an anticipated lifespan of 12 to 14 years.
According to Leonel Costa, Bobi’s owner, Bobi’s extended lifespan was previously attributed to the serene and tranquil environment in which he resided.
Costa also credited Bobi’s diet, which included human food, as a contributing factor.
Bobi was allowed freedom of movement without being tethered, chained, or leashed, and had the liberty to wander within his household.
Bobi’s family informed Guinness that he relished affectionate gestures and delighted in interacting with his four feline companions. They depicted him as exceedingly serene and outgoing.