Pebbles, world's oldest dog and country music lover, dies at 22

The world's oldest dog has died at the grand age of 22.

Pebbles, a toy fox terrier from South Carolina, died on October 3 of "natural causes", her owners said on Instagram. She was five months away from her 23rd birthday.

Guinness World Records awarded Pebbles the title of oldest living dog on May 17, 2022 when she was 22 years and 50 days old.

"Pebbles was not just another dog; she had her own way about her, and her own personality," said owners Julie and Bobb Gregory.

"She was a once in a lifetime companion, and it was our honor to have had the blessing to have had her as a pet, and family member.

"There was never anyone who met Pebbles that didn't love her. She will be deeply missed."

Born on March 28, 2000 on Long Island, Pebbles lived with the Gregorys in Taylors, South Carolina since 2007.

They celebrated her last birthday with a bubble bath and a stack of ribs.

Pebbles long outlived the typical life span of a Toy fox terriers, which live for around 13-15 years. She gave birth to 32 puppies with partner Rocky over three litters.

Although the Gregorys had originally planned to adopt a large dog, Pebbles charmed them straight away, Ms Gregory told Guinness World Records.

"She was jumping and barking so much at Bobby that he had no choice but to pick her up and check her out," she said. "It was instant love the second the two met."

Ms Gregory said Pebbles enjoyed trying new foods, being pampered, and listening to country music singers such as Conway Twitty and Dwight Yoakam.

"Thank you to everyone for your love and support for Pebbles throughout her life and her journey. She will be forever in our heart," the couple said.