Otto - The World's Oldest
Dog
Otto, a dachshund-crossterrier, is officially the oldest dog in the world. At
the grand old age of 20 years and eight months he has every right to enjoy his
dog days at a leisurely pace.
Mrs Jones, 53, has owned Otto since he was six weeks old. She and her husband,
68, a retired sales manager, who have been married for eight years, estimate
Otto's age in 'dog years' - where one human year equates to seven for a canine -
at 145. Former record holder: Chanel, 21, with her owner, Denice
Shaughnessy, from New York State. The white-haired dachshund died in September
They attribute his longevity to 'plenty of love, plenty of good food and regular
check-ups at the vets'. Otto has arthritis, which somewhat limits his
activities, but the couple say he is still sprightly. 'He doesn't really like
walkies any more,' Mrs Jones said. 'He gets about ten yards down the road then
looks back over his shoulder as if to say "I want to go home". But he's still
playful. He can still jump all over people when they come round.'
By early evening, however, Otto is ready for bed. Often this means Mrs Jones has
to sleep in the spare room because Otto likes to be tucked up next to her
husband.
The oldest dog on record was Bluey, an Australian cattle dog, who lived to 29
years and five months before having to be put down in 1939.
Official Record for Oldest Dogs
by Breed
Beagle - Butch 1975-2003 28 years
Labrador - Bramble - 1975-2003 27 years
Dachshund - Chanel - May 6, 1988 - August 28, 2009 21 years, 114 days
Unofficial Record
Australian Cattle Dog - Bluey - June 7, 1910 - November 14, 1939 29 years, 160
days
Labrador - Bella - 1979-2008 29 years
Terrier - Max - August 9, 1983-Living
Bernese Mountain Dog - 1984-Living
Shih Tzu - Smokey - 1986-Living
