Wild Thang: The Ugliest Dog in the World

Well, Wild Thang is indeed the ugliest dog in the world, but who decided that and how did we get to this conclusion?

In a competition that celebrates individuality beyond conventional aesthetics, Wild Thang, an 8-year-old Pekingese, was named the world’s ugliest dog at the 2024 edition of the competition held in California. The annual event, now in its 50th year, has seen the participation of many dogs who stand out for their physical characteristics.

Wild Thang is not only a winner for its unusual appearance but also for its amazing survival story. As a puppy, he faced a severe case of tuberculosis that left indelible marks on his body, affecting his development and causing problems with his teeth and one paw. Despite these challenges, Wild Thang proves that beauty goes beyond physical appearance.

The ugliest dog in the world: the winner and other champions of the competition

Second place was won by Roma, a 14-year-old dog who managed to win the hearts of the judges and the audience with his unmistakable charm. Daisy May, a white mixed breed with an equally poignant story, took third place. Each participant brought to the stage not only their own aesthetic idiosyncrasies, but also personal stories of resilience and affection.

The organizers stressed that the “World’s Ugliest Dog” should not be interpreted as an event to ridicule dogs for their physical defects. The goal is to celebrate the unconditional love these animals offer and encourage adoption of less fortunate dogs. The contest aims to serve as a reminder to look beyond appearances by recognizing the intrinsic value of each creature.

Anne Lewis, the proud owner of Wild Thang, will receive a $5,000 cash prize in recognition of her dedication to caring for and loving this special animal despite her physical challenges. Additionally, she and Wild Thang will be guest stars on NBC’s The Today Show where they will have the opportunity to share their extraordinary story with millions of viewers.

Wild Thang’s win in the World’s Ugliest Dog contest reminds us that every animal deserves love, regardless of their outward appearance. This annual competition provides a platform to celebrate animals that are often overlooked or considered less attractive by traditional standards but possess incomparable inner beauty. The participants’ story illustrates how important it is to promote values ​​such as acceptance and empathy in our society.