The world's ugliest (but coolest) dogs
Wild Thang the rock star Pekingese wins the 2024 Ugliest Dog Contest
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LIFESTYLE Pets
The World's Ugliest Dog Contest is an event celebrated annually in Petaluma, California. While it might sound a bit cruel, the competition isn't about making fun of the dogs. In fact, it's about celebrating the unique characteristics of our canine friends. For dogs, beauty isn't always the most important factor. Just think of some of the most popular breeds! From pugs to French bulldogs, it's often the funkiest-looking creatures that are the most beloved.
This year, Wild Thang, an unruly eight-year-old Pekingese, was crowned the winner of the 2024 Ugliest Dog Contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma on June 23. Wild Thang had entered the competition three times in the past but was always a runner-up. According to his bio, he contracted the viral disease distemper as a foster rescue which causes his tongue to stick out. His rock star hair, however, is all-natural. As the grand prize winner, Wild Thang received US$5,000 and a trophy, as well as the admiration of the contest's thousands of fans.
A scruffy pooch with a lopsided tongue might be the underdog elsewhere, but in this competition, they're the top dog! To meet the various 'ugly' contestants and winners through the years, click through the gallery.
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