22-year-old Pebbles is the new record holder for the world's oldest living dog
A toy fox terrier named Pebbles has been crowned the world's oldest living dog by Guinness World Records, stealing the title from another dog who was recently awarded the honor.
Born on March 28, 2000, Pebbles is a 22-year-old toy fox terrier living in Taylors, South Carolina. Her fur parents Bobby and Julie Gregory were sitting on the couch at home when they realized she was older than the formerly proclaimed oldest living dog, 21-year-old chihuahua TobyKeith.
"When I saw TobyKeith's story all over the news, I applied [for the record]," Julie told Guinness World Records.
The couple was actually looking for a large-breed dog in 2000 but fell in love with Pebbles instead.
"She was jumping and barking so much at Bobby that he had no choice but to pick her up and check her out," Julie said. "It was instant love the second the two met."
Since then, Pebbles became the queen of their household, enjoying snuggles, attention, and listening to country music.
"Pebbles is like a wild teen who loves to sleep during the day and is up all night. She loves listening to country music while she is sleeping. Her two favorite country singers are Conway Twitty and Dwight Yokum," her owner said.
So what's the key to helping a dog live a long and healthy life? Julie suggested showering furbabies with love, attention, and plenty of food. In 2012, the vet placed Pebbles on a cat food diet, which is said to be higher in meat-based protein than dog food.
"Treat them like family because they are. Give them a happy positive environment as much as possible, give clean food, and proper healthcare," she added.
Pebbles marked her 22nd birthday earlier in January with a warm bubble bath and a stack of ribs.
"Pebbles has been with us through everything; ups and downs, good times and bad, and she has always been the beacon of our lives," Julie said.