Bobby, the world’s oldest dog, has died aged 31 in Portugalannounced today the Guinness World Record.

Bobby, one purebred Alentejo Mastiff, spent his entire life in a village in central Portugal.

THE “dog school” he reached the age of 31 years and 165 days, smashing the previous record held by an Australian Shepherd since 1939, who died at the age of 29 years and 5 months.

“Although he lived longer than any other dog in history, his 11,478 days on earth will never be enough for those who loved him”said Karen Becker, the veterinary who had taken care of him many times and was the one who announced his death, on social networking platforms.

“God be with you, Bobby”he added.

Bobby was recognized as the world’s oldest dog just this February.

His breed has a life expectancy of 12-14 years.

His owner, Lionel Costa, attributed his longevity to a number of factors, including living a peaceful life in the countrysidenever chained him, never put a leash on him and always ate “human food”.

At the time Bobby was born the Costa family had many animals and little money, so his father, who was a hunter, usually killed the puppies instead of keeping them. But Bobby hid in a pile of firewood. Leonel and his siblings found him a few days later and hid him until he opened his eyes.

“We knew that after he opened his eyes my parents would not be able to bury him”explained.

Bobby loved going for walks but lately he was having trouble getting around.

His hair was falling out, his vision was failing, and most of the time he rested lying down.

Guinness World Records described Bobby’s story as a “miracle” who “will be sorely missed”.

More than 100 people attended his birthday party last May.