A new pup has taken the crown for ugliest dog in the world, winning the title in the 2024 World’s Ugliest Dog contest in Petaluma, California on June 21. Wild Thang, an 8-year-old Pekingese, had previously participated in the contest four times, placing second three times before finally clinching first place this year. The dog was born and raised in Los Angeles and recently retired to North Bend, Oregon.
Wild Thang’s bio reveals that he contracted distemper as a puppy from a rescue foster, resulting in permanent damage. His teeth did not grow in, causing his tongue to stick out, and his right front leg paddles constantly. Despite these physical challenges, Wild Thang is described as a healthy, happy Glugly (glamorous/ugly) pup. He and his owner Ann Lewis were awarded a $5,000 check for their win.
Last year, a hairless Chinese Crested dog named Scooter won the title. Scooter was born with deformed back legs and was rescued from euthanasia by the Saving Animals From Euthanasia (SAFE) rescue group, of which his owner is a member. The annual contest, hosted by the Sonoma-Marin Fair, has been celebrating the uniqueness of all dogs and promoting the benefits of adoption for nearly 50 years.
The World’s Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of ‘ugly’ dogs, but rather about having fun with unique characters and showing the world that these dogs are truly beautiful. Through this event, dogs like Wild Thang and Scooter receive recognition and appreciation for their individuality and the joy they bring to their owners.