Bobi, the world's oldest dog, dies aged 31

 (REUTERS)
(REUTERS)

The world’s oldest dog has died just five months after celebrating his 31st birthday.

Portuguese mastiff Bobi had spent his entire life living at a family-run farm in the village of Conqueiros.

American veterinarian Dr Karen Becker announced his death on Monday morning.

"Last night, this sweet boy earned his wings," she said. "Despite outliving every dog in history, his 11,478 days on earth would never be enough, for those who loved him.

"Godspeed, Bobi… you’ve taught the world all you were meant to teach."

In February, Bobi broke the Guinness World Record to become the world’s oldest living dog. The record was previously held by Australian cattle-dog Bluey, who died at 29 years and five months in 1939.

Owner Leonel Costa is yet to publicly comment on his passing.

According to The Sun, Mr Costa held a birthday party for Bobi on May 11 in which local meat and fish were served to more than 100 guests.

When Bobi turned 31, he said: "Bobi has been a warrior for all these years, only he knows how he's been holding on.

"It must not be easy because the average dog's life span is not that high and if he spoke only he could explain this success.

“We are very happy and grateful to life for allowing us, after 30 years, to have Bobi in our daily lives.”

Mr Costa said he believes Bobi lived so long because of the “calm, peaceful environment he lives in, his diet of human food and his freedom”.

He said the dog always ate “what we ate” and was never chained up or put on a leash.

The owner of a Lisbon-based pet photography studio paid tribute to Bobi in a heartfelt social media post.

"Rest in peace friend," they said.

"Thankyou for having had the privilege of meeting you, the oldest dog in the world.

"What an amazing life you had."