World's Least Attractive Canine: Petunia, the Hairless One
The World's Ugliest Dog Competition Crowned a New Champion
The 2023 World's Ugliest Dog Competition took place at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, California, where a two-year-old hairless English-French bulldog mix named Petunia was crowned the winner.
Petunia, who now resides in Oregon with her owner Shannon Nyman, was rescued from a backyard breeder and hoarder in Las Vegas. She beat out other contenders, including Jinny Lu, a five-year-old Pug with a lolling tongue, and Poppy, a seven-year-old mostly hairless Chinese Crested dog.
The competition, which is more than just a beauty contest, emphasizes the dogs' lovable qualities and often features rescued or shelter dogs, promoting adoption and animal rescue awareness. The organizers stress that the contest is not about mocking the dogs but highlighting their unique charm and encouraging people to adopt rescue animals.
In addition to the title, Petunia received a $5,000 prize, Jinny Lu's owner, Michelle Grady, received a $3,000 prize, and Poppy was awarded a $2,000 prize. The winners will be making media appearances, including a special appearance on an NBC morning show, to further promote the adoption message and showcase the dogs.
Last year, the honor of appearing on the NBC morning show went to a Pekingese named Wild Thang, who had physical deformities due to contracting distemper as a puppy. However, the organizers have not specified if Wild Thang will make an appearance this year.
The judges voted based on appearance, personality, and audience reaction. The dogs had to perform on a stage in front of cheering audiences to secure a spot on the podium. Many participants in the competition come from shelters.
The competition encourages the adoption of abandoned animals and raises awareness about animal welfare. The event took place on Friday evening (local time) and will continue to promote the adoption of rescue dogs and the unique charm of "ugly" dogs in the future.
Petunia's new lifestyle after winning the World's Ugliest Dog Competition includes media appearances, such as a special appearance on an NBC morning show, to promote animal rescue and adoption. Meanwhile, her fellow contestant Jinny Lu, a five-year-old Pug with a lolling tongue, and Poppy, a seven-year-old mostly hairless Chinese Crested dog, continue to bring entertainment and highlight the lovable qualities of pets that need loving homes.
