This English Bulldog Has Won The World's Ugliest Dog Contest

In Petaluma, California, the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest has just drawn to a close for the 30th time. The pup who claimed the number one spot was Zsa Zsa – an endearing nine-year-old English bulldog with a big underbite, a lolling tongue that droops down over her chest, and teeth nearly entirely horizontal.

Zsa Zsa’s victory has netted her $1,500, a flight to New York to appear on the Today show, and a large, shiny trophy. Her Mom will also be congratulating her with lots of her favorite treats, namely Slim Jims and Chipotle – odd but delicious choices indeed!

But Zsa Zsa’s award-winning appearance – as well as some of the looks of the 14 other contenders for the big prize – comes with a downside or two. It can make eating difficult for the pup, and the fact that her tongue is always out means it’s constantly drying out, so her Mom has to keep it moist and even use doggy ChapStick for the pup’s lips.

Many of the other competing pups also had large underbites and tongues that never quite fit in their mouths, as well as funny fur and crazy eyes. Among them were Wild Thang, a Pekingese with long untamed fur, Meatloaf, a bulldog who vaguely appears to be part pig, and Scamp, an unruly terrier mix who finished second place.

While some of these conditions are a simple case of chance with genetics, many may also be a result of irresponsible breeding. Illegal breeders or even those who practice unhealthy breeding for profit often fail to properly check the genetics of their mama or papa dogs, leading to litters of little puppies that are born with conditions such as these that may worsen over time or make their lives more difficult. In fact, the Chinese crested breed – the long-time favorites of ugly dog shows due to their singular tufts of hair and wild eyes – are often specifically bred to look as “ugly” as possible for these competitions.

While these contests are cute and noble, bringing awareness to the fact that all dogs – even the homely-looking ones! – are lovable and deserve a home and family, we’d like to stress that responsible breeding is important in ensuring healthier pups! Also, if you’re dropping by a shelter to adopt, remember that the pedigree doesn’t define the dog!

Feature Image Source: Daily Mail