Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Aftab Tariq
World’s Ugliest Dog isn’t just a contest; it’s a celebration of imperfection and acceptance among dogs. Welcome to the World’s Ugliest Dog contest.
This special event honors the beauty of imperfection, bringing dogs from around the world to compete for the title of the ugliest dog.
Don’t be fooled by the name it’s not about making fun of these pups. Instead, it’s a heartwarming celebration of diversity and acceptance in the dog world.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of the World’s Ugliest Dog contest and discover the stories behind these lovable yet unconventional champions.
List of 16 Worlds Ugliest Dog
The list of the world’s ugliest dogs serves as a poignant reminder that beauty truly lies in the eye of the beholder, as depicted in the picture of the ugliest dog in the world. Here, you’ll find 16 of them.
1: Mr. Happy Face Dog
In 2022, after a pause caused by the pandemic, the annual World’s Ugliest Dog competition returned. Mr. Happy Face emerged as the World’s Ugliest Dog winner.
This contest happens every year. It’s to encourage people to adopt dogs instead of buying them. It also celebrates dogs that might not get adopted easily just because of how they look.
2: Rascal Dog
In 2002 Looks like ugliness is a family trait! The Chinese crested dog’s grandpa, Chi Chi, won eight Ugly Dog titles and was even in the Guinness Book of World Records for it.
Keeping the family tradition alive, Rascal won at the 15th Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Rascal’s owner, actor Dane Andrew, was really happy and surprised by the win.
3: Sam Dog
Talk about a winning streak! For three years straight, from 2003 to 2005, World’s Ugliest Dog Sam held the crown. This blind Chinese crested pup, rescued from a shelter by his owner in Santa Barbara, California, captured hearts with his unconventional appearance and endearing personality.
Despite his title, Sam’s unique face even got him featured on Criss Angel’s Mindfreak Halloween special, showcasing his widespread appeal and proving that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder.
4: Archie Dog
In 2006, there was a pup with an interesting tongue! This toothless mix of Chinese crested and Chihuahua was saved from being put down by his caring owner, Heather Peoples. And yes, he loves giving his mom kisses with that tongue!
5: Elwood Dog
In 2007, there was a dog with a memorable Mohawk! This 2-year-old Chinese crested had a special hairstyle that made him stand out. His unique look even got him featured in a children’s book after winning at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest.
But unfortunately, Elwood, as he was called, passed away in November 2013 at the age of 8.
6: Gus Dog
In 2007, there was a special dog with one eye! This Chinese crested from St. Petersburg, Florida, had just three legs but still rocked the stage at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. And guess what? He won a $1,600 cash prize!
But sadly, Gus passed away from cancer on November 10, 2008, in Gulfport, Florida. His owner, Jeanenne Teed, made sure Gus had a happy last day filled with joy. Later, Gus was buried in the backyard under a Butterfly bush.
7: Pabst Dog
In 2009, there was a big surprise at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. A 4-year-old boxer mix stole the show and won the title, even though the favorite was the Chinese crested Rascal.
Pabst’s owner, Miles Egstad, didn’t think his dog was ugly at all! He proudly mentioned that Pabst’s most interesting feature is his underbite.
8: Princess Abby Dog
In 2010, there was a special Chihuahua at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest! Despite having only one eye and a back deformity, she won the hearts of many. It’s believed that her deformity might have been caused by inbreeding. She may seem like she’s bowing, but she’s actually standing proud as the winner!
9: Yoda Dog
In 2011, at the 23rd annual Worlds Ugliest Dog contest, a special dog named Yoda took the spotlight. Despite being 14 years old, she won the trophy. But sadly, her time as champion didn’t last long. Just eight months later, she passed away.
Yoda’s owner, Terry Schumacher, revealed that her friends had been suggesting for a long time to enter Yoda into the contest. However, Terry was hesitant at first because she thought Yoda was cute, not ugly.
10: Mugly Dog
In 2012, the World’s Ugliest Dog named Mugly won the title at the World’s Ugliest Dog contest. Despite his name suggesting he’s ugly, he took home the big prize.
Mugly was already known as one of the ugliest dogs in the U.K. before winning this award. His owner, Bev Nicholson, proudly showed off their British pride with Union Jack accessories.
Even though Mugly won the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest, he didn’t stop there. In 2016, he received the Heroic Hounds award at the National Pet Show in London for his amazing work as a therapy dog.
11: Walle Dog
In 2013, a special dog named Walle stole the show at the 25th annual Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Walle was a 4-year-old mutt with some unique features – he had a big head, a humpback, and walked like a duck. Despite his unusual appearance, Walle won the top prize!
Walle’s owner, Tammie Barbee, shared that his head has always been bigger than his body. But despite his looks, Walle was an amazing dog with a big personality. He loved making people happy and always tried his best to please them.
12: Peanut Dog
In 2014, a 2-year-old mutt named Peanut made a big impact at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Peanut, the world’s ugliest dog according to pictures, was a burn survivor, and his owner, Holly Chandler, had a meaningful reason for entering him in the contest.
She hoped that his win would help raise awareness about the importance of stopping animal abuse. Holly Chandler saw her dog as a poster child for what can happen to animals who are mistreated. She wanted to use his story to encourage people to be more caring towards animals.
With the $1,500 prize money from the contest, Chandler planned to assist others with their vet bills, showing her commitment to helping animals in need.
Peanut’s victory not only shed light on the issue of animal abuse but also highlighted the resilience and beauty that can be found in even the most unconventional of companions.
13: Quasi Modo Dog
In 2015, there was a special dog at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Quasi Modo, a 10-year-old pit bull-Dutch shepherd mix, won the title that year.
Despite having a hunchback, he was considered Ugly Dog perfection! Quasi Modo won against 26 other dogs and received a makeover from fashion expert Carson Kressley on Jimmy Kimmel Live.
“Quasi Modo’s biography mentions that while his appearance might be unsettling to some people, he has a bubbly personality that wins everyone over once they get to know him. This shows that looks aren’t everything, and personality matters a lot too.”
14: Sweepee Rambo Dog
In 2016, there was a special dog at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Sweepee Rambo, a 17-year-old Chinese crested, won the top prize that year. Even though Sweepee sadly passed away in October 2016, he left a lasting impression.
With a milky right eye, big ears, and a unique tongue, Sweepee Rambo charmed everyone’s hearts. Before being adopted by Jason Wurtz, Sweepee Rambo had a tough time. He had been in several dog pounds before finding his forever home.
“Jason Wurtz, Sweepee’s owner, mentioned that his past girlfriends had felt “jealous” of the strong bond between Sweepee and him. This shows just how much Sweepee was loved and cherished by his owner.”
15: Martha Dog
In 2017, there was a big and friendly dog named Martha who won the top prize at the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Martha was a Neapolitan Mastiff and weighed 125 pounds! Despite her size, she was known for being gentle and a bit “gassy.”
During the contest, Martha won the hearts of the judges when she flopped on the stage during her presentation.
Martha’s win came with some great rewards. She received $1,500 in prize money, a trophy, and even got to go on a trip to New York City to meet her fans. It was a big celebration for Martha and her owner.
16: Zsa Zsa Dog
In 2018, a special English bulldog named Zsa Zsa won the Worlds Ugliest Dog contest. Zsa Zsa had some unique features that made her stand out, like her wide stance, teeth-exposing underbite, and a tongue that almost touched the ground.
These special traits helped her beat 13 other dogs and win $1,500, a big trophy, and a trip to New York City for media appearances during the 2018 Sonoma-Marin Fair.
Zsa Zsa was a rescue dog from Minnesota. She was rescued from a puppy mill and found by her owner, Megan Brainard. Zsa Zsa’s win brought a lot of joy to Megan and her family.
However, just two weeks after winning the contest, Zsa Zsa passed away peacefully in her sleep. Megan and her daughter were deeply saddened by the loss and held a special farewell ceremony to honor their beloved pet.
Note: June 20th is Ugliest Dog Day, celebrating our less conventionally cute canine companions. Originating as the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest in 1970s California, it’s all about embracing the unique charm of our furry friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Scooter Become Recognized as the World’s Ugliest Dog?
Scooter earned the title of the “World’s Ugliest Dog” through his participation in the annual contest held in California. His distinctive appearance made him stand out and secured him this notable recognition.
Who Were the Contestants in World’s Ugliest Dog Contest?
The contestants in the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest vary each year, featuring dogs with unique appearances or congenital conditions. Notable past contestants include Mugly, Peanut, Zsa Zsa, and Quasi Modo.
Who Won the Title of World’s Ugliest Dog in 2024?
Snaggletooth, a Chinese Crested dog, took home the title with his distinctive crooked teeth, bulging eyes, and patchy fur.
What is the Breed of the World’s Ugliest Dog?
The World’s Ugliest Dog breed is typically a mix of breeds, with Chinese crested dogs being common winners but other breeds or mixes also claiming the title.
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