World’s oldest dog Bobi celebrates 31st birthday

The world's oldest dog recently celebrated his 31st birthday, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.

Bobi, a purebred Rafeiro do Alentejo, a breed of Portuguese dog, celebrated during a party on May 13 at his home in the rural 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 only eats human food. A dance troupe also performed with Bobi participating in one of their routines.

Costa has owned several old-aged dogs in the past, including Bobi's mother, Gira, who lived to the age of 18. However,

Costa said he never imagined any of his dogs would reach their 30s.

"We see situations like this as a normal result of the life that they have, but Bobi is one of a kind," Costa 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.

Now in his senior years, Bobi finds it difficult to walk, so he prefers to hang out at home in the yard. His eyesight has gotten worse, meaning he often bumps into things when he walks. Just like old-aged humans, Bobi sleeps a lot. He immediately lies down in bed after eating, although on cold days he chooses to nap by the fire, his owner said.

Bobi's birth date has been confirmed by the Veterinary Medical Service of the Municipality of Leiria, which registered...