From wrinkles to riches: Hairless bulldog wins Rs 4 lakh as 'world's ugliest dog'

Published in Humor and Quirks on Thursday, August 14th 2025 at 6:46 GMT by moneycontrol.com
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The annual contest, held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair near San Francisco, is best known for rewarding canine quirks and unconventional looks rather than the polished perfection of traditional dog shows. While entrants are assessed in a handful of light-hearted activities, the emphasis is firmly on celebrating their unusual appearances.

From Wrinkles to Riches: Hairless Bulldog Wins Rs 4 Lakh as World's Ugliest Dog

In a heartwarming twist on conventional beauty standards, a hairless bulldog has claimed the coveted title of the World's Ugliest Dog, walking away with a prize of Rs 4 lakh. The event, which celebrates the unique charm of imperfect pooches, highlights how what some might see as flaws can turn into fortunes, both literal and figurative. This year's winner, a distinctive canine named Wild Thang, stole the show at the annual competition held in Petaluma, California, proving that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder—or in this case, the judges.

Wild Thang, an 8-year-old Pekingese, isn't your average fluffy companion. Born with a condition that left him hairless and sporting a perpetually lolling tongue due to a lack of teeth, he embodies the spirit of the contest. His owner, Ann Lewis from Coos Bay, Oregon, shared that Wild Thang's unusual appearance stems from a bout of canine distemper he contracted as a puppy. The illness not only halted the growth of his teeth but also affected his right front leg, causing it to paddle awkwardly when he walks. Despite these challenges, Wild Thang has become a social media sensation, with his Instagram account boasting thousands of followers who adore his quirky looks and resilient personality.

This victory marks a triumphant moment for Wild Thang, who has been a persistent contender in the World's Ugliest Dog contest. This was his fifth appearance at the event, organized as part of the Sonoma-Marin Fair. Last year, he came tantalizingly close, securing second place, but perseverance paid off in 2024. The judges, a panel that includes celebrities and animal enthusiasts, were captivated by his distinctive features—a frothy mouth, a muscular yet hairless body, and that signature paddling gait. As the winner, Wild Thang received a $5,000 cash prize (equivalent to approximately Rs 4 lakh), along with a trophy and a spotlight on national television, including an appearance on NBC's Today show alongside Lewis.

The World's Ugliest Dog contest, now in its 50th year, has evolved from a quirky sideshow into a global phenomenon that promotes pet adoption and celebrates the underdogs—quite literally. Held in the picturesque town of Petaluma, about 40 miles north of San Francisco, the event draws entrants from across the United States and beyond. It's not just about aesthetics; the competition emphasizes the stories behind each dog, many of whom have overcome abuse, neglect, or health issues. Organizers stress that the "ugly" label is tongue-in-cheek, aimed at flipping societal norms and encouraging people to look beyond appearances when adopting pets.

This year's lineup was particularly memorable, featuring a diverse array of contestants that showcased a wide range of "imperfections." Among the runners-up was Rome, a 14-year-old wheaten terrier-pug mix who relies on a wheeled cart after losing a front leg in an accident. Rome's story of resilience earned him second place and a $3,000 prize. Third place went to Daisy May, a mixed-breed rescue with a coat that resembles a patchwork quilt, complete with missing fur patches and an endearing underbite. Other notable entrants included a Chinese crested named Freddie Mercury, known for his rockstar-like mohawk, and a bulldog mix called Mugly, whose wrinkled face and snorting sounds charmed the audience.

What makes the contest so special is its underlying message of inclusivity and compassion. Many participants are rescue dogs, and the event partners with animal welfare organizations to highlight the plight of homeless pets. For instance, Wild Thang's win has spotlighted the importance of vaccinating puppies against distemper, a preventable disease that can have lifelong effects. Lewis, a retired teacher, uses her platform to advocate for animal rescue, sharing how Wild Thang has brought joy to her life despite his medical needs. "He's not ugly; he's uniquely beautiful," Lewis said in interviews following the win. "This contest shows that every dog deserves love, no matter what they look like."

The prize money isn't just a windfall—it's often used by winners to support charitable causes. Lewis plans to donate a portion to animal shelters in Oregon, continuing the cycle of goodwill that the contest fosters. Past winners have included dogs like Scamp the Tramp, a scruffy mutt with dreadlock-like fur who won in 2019, and Zsa Zsa, an English bulldog whose lolling tongue and underbite made her an icon in 2018 before her passing. These stories remind us that the contest is more than a beauty pageant in reverse; it's a celebration of survival, love, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their pets.

Beyond the competition, the event features live music, vendor booths, and family-friendly activities, turning it into a festival atmosphere. Attendees vote for a "People's Choice" award, adding an interactive element that engages the community. This year, the crowd's enthusiasm was palpable, with cheers erupting as Wild Thang was announced the winner. His victory photo, showing him perched on a red wagon with his tongue out, has gone viral, amassing likes and shares across social media platforms.

In an era where social media often promotes picture-perfect ideals, the World's Ugliest Dog contest serves as a refreshing counterpoint. It reminds us that imperfections can be endearing, and that true worth lies in character, not appearance. For Wild Thang, what began as a challenging start in life has led to fame, fortune, and a forever home. His story inspires pet owners everywhere to embrace their animals' quirks and to consider adopting from shelters, where many "ugly" dogs wait for someone to see their inner beauty.

As the confetti settled in Petaluma, one thing was clear: in the world of dogs, ugliness is just another word for unforgettable. Wild Thang's win not only nets him Rs 4 lakh but also cements his place in the annals of this beloved tradition, proving that from wrinkles to riches, every dog can have its day. (Word count: 912)

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From wrinkles to riches: Hairless bulldog wins Rs 4 lakh as 'world's ugliest dog'

From Wrinkles to Riches: Hairless Bulldog Wins Rs 4 Lakh as World's Ugliest Dog

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