The World’s Ugliest Dog for 2024 has been crowned in California in the USA. It was the 8-year-old Pekingese, Wild Thang’s fifth attempt at the crown. The victorious pooch hails from North Bend in Oregon.
More about Wild Thang
The World’s Ugliest Dog competition was recently held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, north of San Francisco, in California. Those competing for the top prize of $5 000 must also walk on a runway before the judges.
They’re, among others, evaluated on personality, appearance and audience reaction.
“Wild Thang was a fan favourite and the fact that he had been competing 5 times, only came in second, kind of like the bridesmaid, and never the bride, I think, really tugged at our heartstrings,” said one of the judges Fiona Ma.
Wild Thang was born in Los Angeles and did not have an easy life. The canine had to face major health challenges very early in his life.
“He deserved to win,” Ma concluded.
He was still a puppy when he was diagnosed with distemper while in foster care. This condition is potentially fatal. Another puppy, who was in his litter, died due to the viral disease but Wild Thang survived, albeit with some permanent physical effects. Due to this medical condition, the dog has malformed teeth and there’s a problem with his right leg.
Some permanent physical effects
The competition celebrates the uniqueness of canines. It does not adhere to conventional beauty standards. It also brings about an awareness and a reminder of the diversity in the canine community.
Dogs of all shapes and sizes
Dogs of all shapes, sizes, and appearances are also given good homes. Contestants and spectators from across the USA travel to the fair, annually to participate and support. Mug Root Beer sponsored the $10,000 prize pool.
MORE PHOTOS: The winning pooches
