There's a new reigning king in the world of "ugly" dogs, and the sweet Pekingese is stealing hearts everywhere with his sweet personality.
On June 21, 2024, the World's Ugliest Dog competition crowned its winner, and we were introduced to Wild Thang. Here's what you should know.
According to TODAY , the 2024 World's Ugliest Dog competition took place at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, and a repeat contestant took home the top prize this year.
Related: Meet the Contestants of the World's Ugliest Dog Competition!
Meet Wild Thang, an 8-year-old Pekingese who has a very unique look. This was his fifth year in the competition, and he'd previously placed second three times, but this was finally his year.
Wild Thang is a really cool-looking dog with a fluffy, long coat and tongue that doesn't fit into his mouth. He was crowned the winner, and his mom, Ann Lewis, received $5,000 in prize money after Wild Thang beat out seven other pups vying for the title.
California State Treasurer Fiona Ma, one of the competition's judges, said this pup deserved to win.
"Wild Thang was a fan favorite," she said during a speech at the event . "The fact that he had been competing for five times and only came in second [until now], kind of like the bridesmaid and never the bride, really tugged at our heartstrings. He deserved to win."
"Wild Thang contracted distemper as a puppy from a rescue foster," his bio page for the contents reads. The sweet pup "barely" survived — he pulled through, "but not without permanent damage. His teeth did not grow in, causing his tongue to stay out and his right front leg paddles 24/7. Other than that, he is a healthy, happy Glugly (glamourous/ugly) guy."
The newly crowned "ugly" dog "loves people, other dogs and especially his toys," his bio continued. And "his purpose in life is to promote the necessity of getting your pets vaccinated."
The 'World's Ugliest Dog' Competition Has Been Around Since the 1970s
"This world-renowned event celebrates the imperfections that make all dogs special and unique," the World's Ugliest Dog Contest website shares.
"The annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of “ugly” dogs, but having fun with some wonderful characters and showing the world that these dogs are really beautiful!"
To compete, dogs have to obtain and submit paperwork that states the dogs are healthy. "The World’s Ugliest Dog® Contest follows up with a vet check on-site just prior to the contest," the site explains.
The competition is a full-day affair, starting with pre-contest entertainment and information for guests on adoption and pet care. Then it's time for the dogs!
"Each pup and handler will bask in the limelight as they show off their unique beauty to the judges, media, host, and fans," the site explains. "It’s a wonderful show of pageantry and pride."
But while the contest is "fun and entertainment," there is more behind the event than just looking at unique-looking dogs.
"The contest speaks to the importance of advocating for the adoration of all animals and the benefits of adopting," the website shares. "Many of the contestant dogs have been rescued from shelters and puppy mills, to find loving homes in the hands of those willing to adopt."
We're so happy for Wild Thang!
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