The World's Ugliest Dog Contest

Hey lovelies!  Hope you are having a fabulous weekend!

So I recently read an article about a strange contest that California holds – the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest. I was shocked to see such an odd competition lol.  Especially since it seems very popular and people travel from all over the world to enter.

The contest includes a Red Carpet Walk and a Faux Paw Fashion Show featuring adoptable or previously adopted dogs.

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

1st Place Winner, Martha

This year’s winner is Martha, a 3-year-old Neopolitan Mastiff.  Martha was a rescue dog that was nearly blind after suffering from severe neglect and abuse.  Thankfully, after obtaining her forever home and after several surgeries, she can now see again.

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

1st Place Winner, Martha with Owner

I’m not sure I find Martha ugly – maybe not the cutest dog I’ve ever seen, but there is something sweet and adorable about her.

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

2nd Place Winner, Moe with Owner

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

2nd Place Winner, Moe with Owner

This year’s second place winner is Moe, a Brussel Griffon Pug.  Look at that tongue lol!  So silly!

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

3rd Place Winner Chase

This year’s third place winner is Chase, a Chinese Crested Harke.  I can’t help but think of Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey when I see a Chinese Crested dog.  “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” is one of my favorite movies.  Have you seen it?  Remember when Kate’s character surprises Matthew’s character with their new dog and the dog pees on his billiard table lol!

I don’t know about you, but as a huge animal lover I don’t really see dogs as ugly.  They are cute in their own ways.  Perhaps if I had to pick a dog as ugly, I’d pick one that is mean and vicious, but even then, it’s more likely they were trained and taught those bad characteristics.

This contest has been going on since the 1970’s and is held in Petaluma, California every year.  As this event is part of the Sonoma-Marin Fair it draws about 2-3k people each year.

The entry fee is waived for all contestants if they enter before the set deadline date.  However, if you miss that date is costs $10 to compete.

The first-place winner receives $1,500, a trophy, a free trip to NYC, and of course, the esteemed official title.  That awesome prize is definitely worth the free or even $10 entry fee!

(AP Photo/Eric Risberg – STL Today)

Contestant Rascal with Owner (L) and 3rd Place Winner, Chase (R) with Owner

Although a strange contest, I love that this event partners with animal rights groups to educate the public about animals and to provide opportunities to adopt rescue dogs.

All in all, Erin Post, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair, said it best, “We’re proud to celebrate all dogs and pets by showing that no matter their imperfections, they are adoptable, lovable and a great addition to any family.”

So maybe not the most glamorous title to win, this event is all fun and games, encourages adopt don’t shop, and all breeds and ages are welcome.

What do you think of this event?  Have you heard of it before?  Would you enter your dog into this competition?  Which breed do you think is the ugliest?  Do you agree with the judge’s scores on who they picked for first through third place?

Find out more info about this event at the links below.

Sources:

"Meet Martha - the World's Ugliest Dog." Stltoday.com. STL Today, 24 June 2017. Web. 30 June 2017. <http://www.stltoday.com/lifestyles/pets/meet-martha---the-world-s-ugliest-dog/collection_65499613-5571-55ed-841a-753ed996f89e.html>.

"World's Ugliest Dog Contest." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 26 June 2017. Web. 09 July 2017. <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World%27s_Ugliest_Dog_Contest>.

"World’s Ugliest Dog." Sonoma Marin Fairgrounds & Event Center. Sonoma Marin Fairgrounds & Event Center, n.d. Web. 09 July 2017. <http://www.sonoma-marinfair.org/worlds-ugliest-dog/>.