Guinness Record in Doubt as World's Oldest Dog Investigation Unfolds

Guinness Record in Doubt as World's Oldest Dog Investigation Unfolds
Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo from Portugal, was celebrated worldwide as the oldest dog ever, having reportedly lived for 31 years and 165 days. His remarkable age, exceeding the previous record set by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, by over two years, stirred both admiration and skepticism, The New York Times reports. But recent doubts about Bobi's age have prompted the Guinness World Records (GWR) to conduct a formal review, leaving the dog's legendary status in limbo.
Bobi was a Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed native to Portugal. Photo: Facebook / Guinness World Records
Bobi was a Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed native to Portugal.

The Breed's Typical Lifespan


Rafeiro do Alentejo, the breed to which Bobi belonged, typically lives for 12 to 14 years, the Associated Press reports, making Bobi's alleged age extraordinarily unusual. This breed, originating in Portugal, has a history as hunting dogs and livestock guardians. The variance between the expected lifespan of this breed and Bobi's reported age has been a key factor fueling skepticism among veterinary experts.
Bobi was declared the world's oldest dog by Guinness World Records in February 2023. Photo: Facebook / Guinness World Records
Bobi was declared the world's oldest dog by Guinness World Records in February 2023.

Skepticism from Veterinary Experts


Several veterinarians have expressed doubt over Bobi's age, noting that the dog appeared overweight in photos, a condition generally not associated with extreme longevity, The Seattle Times reports.
“Not a single one of my veterinary colleagues believe Bobi was actually 31 years old,” Danny Chambers, a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, told The Guardian.
Bobi surpassed the previous record held by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog. Photo: Facebook / Guinness World Records
Bobi surpassed the previous record held by Bluey, an Australian cattle dog.

Owner's Claim and Guinness's Review


Leonel Costa, Bobi's owner, has stood by his claim, attributing the dog's long life to a diet of human food and a peaceful environment, The Guardian reports. The GWR's investigation aims to examine the existing evidence, seek new information, and consult experts. This process is expected to take no more than three months, during which the titles for the oldest living and oldest dog ever are temporarily paused.
Bobi's story extends beyond his age. He narrowly escaped death as a puppy, when he was concealed in a pile of logs and later hidden by Costa and his brother, The Newe York Times. This dramatic start to life, coupled with his free-roaming lifestyle and diet, contributed to his public persona.
The controversy intensified with Costa's claim that the skepticism is fueled by Bobi's diet, which went against conventional veterinary recommendations, The Guardian reports. He suggested that the reaction might have been different had he claimed Bobi consumed pet food for three decades. This statement reflects a broader debate about pet nutrition and longevity.
Bobi's Guinness record is on hold pending the outcome of the investigation. Photo: Facebook / Guinness World Records
Bobi's Guinness record is on hold pending the outcome of the investigation.

The Larger Implications


Bobi's case opens a discussion on pet longevity, breed lifespans, and the factors contributing to a healthy life for animals. It also sheds light on the verification processes for extraordinary claims and the need for reliable evidence in such cases.
As the Guinness World Records concludes its investigation, the legacy of Bobi, regardless of the outcome, will remain a topic of discussion and inspiration.
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Matthew Russell

Matthew Russell is a West Michigan native and with a background in journalism, data analysis, cartography and design thinking. He likes to learn new things and solve old problems whenever possible, and enjoys bicycling, spending time with his daughters, and coffee.

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