This dog has been dubbed as the "most unattractive dog globally."
Year after year, the hunt for the "ugliest dog on the planet" sparks interest across the USA. This time around, an eight-year-old Pekinese named "Wild Thang" swoops in to claim the title. The victorious pooch's owner now bags a cool $5000 (roughly €4600).
With lanky grey-brown-white fur and a tongue that hangs out to one side, "Wild Thang" has been named the "ugliest dog on the planet." The eight-year-old canine clinched the "World's Ugliest Dog" title in Petaluma, California, on a Friday night (local time), making it the dog's fifth attempt and third runner-up finish.
Its owner, Ann Lewis, who recently relocated from LA to Oregon, will now receive $5000 for the triumph of her pup. Lewis proudly states that "Wild Thang" was initially a sickly pup, suffering from a condition that caused physical deformities; but the dog now thrives in good health and happiness.
Last year, a Chinese Crested dog named "Scooter" stormed to victory in the annual contest that has been running for over half a century. "Scooter," who was born with deformed back legs by a breeder, had initially been surrendered to a shelter before being saved from euthanasia.
Instead of poking fun at these "ugly" dogs, the competition's coordinators aim to emphasize their appealing and endearing qualities. Most of the participants hail from shelters, with the event promoting pet adoption and working with animal welfare groups to spread awareness and provide adoption opportunities for abandoned animals.
The competition garners significant attention across the USA every year, with the victorious dogs and their owners appearing on nationally syndicated television shows.
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Despite the international acclaim, the competition primarily attracts interest within the USA. Conversely, dog enthusiasts from various countries often express their interest in participating in similar events in their own countries.
