California's imperfect canines compete for World's Ugliest Dog contest
The Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California is hosting its annual World’s Ugliest Dog, where 25 of the scraggliest, grungiest and most grotesque canines are in the running to win the coveted title. Many have been rescued from shelters. The contest aims to recognize dogs not traditionally considered beautiful: “We celebrate the spirit and imperfections that make these dogs loveable and adoptable,” explains Sarah Cummings, CEO in a press release. The winning dog’s owner will walk away with $1,500. (Reported by Layla Bozich)
Sweepie Rambo is a blue-eyed Chinese Crescent Chihuahua with freckled skin and a blonde Mohawk. He liked riding on his master's Honda motorcycle until his master was in an accident, luckily leaving Sweepie at home.
Zoomer, left, was abandoned by his first owners after a vicious dog attack left him with neck and facial wounds. Vivienne Morris Thau, 4, was shy because she’s missing teeth. This is her first ugly dog contest.
Angus, left, is 10 and has bad eyes and teeth. He loves walking with his owner. Pork, right, a 13 year old Chihuahua was abandoned because he has a tiny bladder and wet his master’s carpet. His new owner feeds him table scraps which he loves.
Quasi Modo is a 10 year old mixed pit/shepherd breed with spinal defects from birth. She has been mistaken for a hyena or Tasmanian devil, her owner says.
Molly, left, is a 12 year old hairless Chihuahua whose first owner thought she was so ugly she gave her to her current owner. She loves to play dead for treats. Last year judges told Scamp, right, he looked like Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones.