While celebrating a 21st birthday is common and not at all record setting for humans, it’s quite different for dogs. Most dogs do not live to see their 20s. For example, the average life expectancy of a chihuahua is 12 to 18 years.
A Florida resident named Gisela Shore adopted a chihuahua named Peanut Butter when he was just a puppy. She was not the original owner of the pup. He was surrendered at a local shelter by an elderly couple who gave him the cute food name.
Shore later changed Peanut Butter’s name to Toby Keith. Toby Keith (the puppy not the singer) has now been part of her family for over 20 years.
When Toby Keith lived longer than the average life expectancy of a chihuahua, Shore’s family wondered if there was a chance that he was the oldest living dog. It turns out that her family was right.
Toby Keith is now 21 years old, and Guinness World Records has confirmed that he is the world’s oldest living dog.
Watch the video below to learn more about Toby Kieth.
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Shore told Guinness, “People can’t believe how good he looks for his age.”
What is the secret to Toby Keith’s long life? Shore says that she feeds him a healthy diet, and he lives in a loving home. She also credits it to good genetics.
On an average day, Toby Keith goes for a walk in the morning and then eats his favorite snack, a piece of turkey. The rest of the day consists mainly of a few walks and cuddling with Shore while she works.
Shore is “thrilled” that her pup has lived so long and has even set a world record. She explained, “The thought that my little guy has reached such a milestone is fantastic! I am thrilled.”
While Toby Keith is currently the oldest living dog, he is not the oldest dog that has ever lived. That current honor goes to an Australian cattle dog that lived to the age of 29 years and 5 months.
Do you think Toby Keith will live longer than the Australian cattle dog?
