The animal, which was described by owner Leonel Costa as being "an angel", "very sociable" and "sweet", was recognised by Guinness World Records on February 1, 2023, at the age 30 years and 266 days.

"Rest in peace, friend! Thank you for having the privilege of meeting you, the oldest dog in the world. What an incredible life you've had", said Le Terrier Studio, via Instagram.

For his part, Leonel Costa said that Bobi had been hospitalised for a few days, after internal problems were detected, according to SIC Notícias.

"We started specific treatment. It was a tough fight and only a warrior like him could have lasted this long", he lamented.

"The best memories remain of a long life where he was happy and, above all, made many people happy, especially his family who today feel that one of their pillars has collapsed."

Bobi was born in Conqueiros, a village in the municipality of Leiria, on May 11, 1992.

According to two international veterinarians who were at the celebration, the secret to the canine's longevity was eating human food, freedom and having a rich social life.

Bobi, a Rafeiro from Alentejo who always lived in Portugal, beat the record of almost a century held by Bluey, an Australian shepherd dog who died in 1939, at 29 years and 5 months old.

Related article: Oldest dog in the world turns 31 (in Portugal)