Ugliest Dog in the World 2023 Meet World Ugliest Dog Scooter
by Kowsalya
Updated Jun 27, 2023
Ugliest Dog in the World 2023 Meet World Ugliest Dog Scooter
A new champion has emerged in the annual animal adoption awareness competition, earning the coveted title of "World's Ugliest Dog." Scooter, a seven-year-old Chinese Crested, claimed the honor at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, impressing the judges with his unique appearance.
Scooter, who relies on a wheeled cart due to reversed back legs, showcased his endearing features during the event. His characteristic tongue hangs loosely from his mouth, and he sports a distinctive hairstyle, with white wispy hair sprouting from his face and tail, which caught the attention of the judges.
Catherine Liang, one of the competition judges, remarked that Scooter reminded her of a hairy hippopotamus in an adorable way. Initially saddened by his condition, the judges discovered his true charm and loving nature through their interactions. They particularly admired Scooter's self-sufficiency, which contributed to his appeal.
Scooter's journey to the title was unexpected. Originally brought to animal control in Tucson, Arizona, by a breeder with the intent of euthanizing him, he was ultimately rescued by the Saving Animals From Euthanasia (SAFE) rescue group. Linda Elmquist, his current owner, provided him with a chance at a normal life.
Despite his unique physical traits, Scooter is not just surviving but thriving, oblivious to any differences he may have from other dogs, according to his biography.
As the 2023 winner, Scooter received a cash prize of $1,500 and a trophy. Beyond the rewards, he serves as an inspiration for prospective pet owners to consider animal rescue. The competition, which began over two decades ago, aims to raise awareness about pet adoption.
While the World's Ugliest Dog contest celebrates the endearing imperfections of dogs, many participants are rescues from shelters and puppy mills. The competition leverages its fun and notoriety to promote dog adoption, recognizing that dogs, regardless of physical appearance, deserve loving homes.
Tawny Tesconi, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds and Event Center, emphasized the importance of providing dogs with caring families, as they are cherished members of our households.
Who Win the Ugliest Dog in the World 2023?
In a remarkable turn of events, Scooter, a 7-year-old Chinese Crested dog, emerged as the victor in the 2023 Ugliest Dog Contest, securing both a grand trophy and a substantial prize of $1,500.
Linda Elmquist, hailing from Tucson, Arizona, became the fortunate adopter of Scooter after a breeder sought to have the puppy euthanized due to his underdeveloped hind legs.
Expressing sheer elation, Elmquist conveyed her immense pride in Scooter's triumph in the World's Ugliest Dog contest. She issued a statement emphasizing the dog's unwavering spirit and determination in the face of his physical challenges. Scooter's indomitable spirit has become an inspiration to countless individuals across the globe, showcasing the power of resilience and perseverance.
Ugliest Dog in the World 2023 Winners
Ranking
Dog Name
Breed
Prize Won
1st Place
Scooter
Chinese Crested
Trophy and $1,500
2nd Place
Wild Thang
Pekingese
-
3rd Place
Harold Bartholomew
Chihuahua
Trophy
Spirit Award
People's choice winner
Rascal Deux
Hairless
People's Choice Award
World's Ugliest Dog Contest
The Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, hosts an annual event known as the World's Ugliest Dog Contest. This contest, held during the fourth week of June, aims to determine the ugliest dog among the participants.
The winner not only earns the title of "The World's Ugliest Dog" but also receives a prize of $1,000 and a trophy. Since 2017, the prize has been increased to $1,600, along with a trophy and a complimentary trip to New York City. The contest garners significant media attention, and attendance at the fair can reach as high as 20,000 to 30,000 individuals each year. The festivities now include a Dog Lovers' Festival throughout the day leading up to the evening contest.
The tradition of this contest dates back to the 1970s. In 2009, the Sonoma-Marin Fair successfully trademarked the phrase "World's Ugliest Dog." In 2013, the contest commemorated its 25th anniversary as an event organized by the fair itself.
To mark the occasion, an anniversary book titled "World's Ugliest Dogs" was published, featuring text by Vicki DeArmon, the contest's producer for seven years, and photographs by various photographers who have covered the contest over the years.
Ugliest Dog in the World 2023 -FAQs
Scooter is a Chinese Crested, a breed known for its unique appearance and often represented in the contest.
Scooter is 7 years old, adding to his charm and showcasing his resilience despite his physical challenges
Scooter won the contest by impressing the judges with his distinct appearance, including reversed back legs, a tongue hanging loose from his mouth, and a unique hairstyle.
The scooter's owner is Linda Elmquist from Tucson, Arizona. She adopted him after a breeder brought him to a veterinarian to be euthanized due to his underdeveloped back legs.
Despite his physical challenges, Scooter has defied all odds and shown incredible resilience and determination. His story serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the strength and beauty that can be found in the face of adversity.