Scooter scoots to victory: Bald, reversed-legged pup crowned 'World's Ugliest Dog'

WASHINGTON (TND) — Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and the "World's Ugliest Dog" is definitely one of a kind.

The 7-year-old Chinese Crested dog named Scooter has reversed hind legs and is nearly bald except for a few white wispy hairs.

The contest held in Petaluma, Calif. is a nearly 50-year-old event that showcases a dog is uniquely beautiful by celebrating "the imperfections that make all dogs special" and advocating for adoption.

Scooter's uniqueness is now celebrated but was once criticized when a breeder brought a brand-new puppy with two deformed hind legs to an animal control facility with the intention of euthanizing him, according to a news release.

I am overjoyed and incredibly proud that Scooter has been crowned the winner of the World's Ugliest Dog contest,” said Scooter’s owner, Linda Elmquist. “Despite the challenges he has faced with his deformed hind legs, Scooter has defied all odds and shown us the true meaning of resilience and determination. He has become an inspiration to countless people around the world.

With the help of a cart, he is able to zoom around and explore his surroundings while enjoying a zest for life.

In second place, a 7-year-old Pekingese named Wild Thang won the judges over with his glamorous and ugly charm. After contracting distemper as a puppy his teeth failed to grow, causing his tongue to protrude and his right front leg paddles incessantly.

A 16-year-old Chihuahua named Harold Bartholomew took home third place for his unique charm. Despite being blind and deaf, he has thrived by becoming an animal advocate for animal rescue and uplifting those around him.

"We are thrilled to have hosted another successful World's Ugliest Dog contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair. This unique event allows us to celebrate the extraordinary resilience and beauty found within these special dogs. Each contestant has a remarkable story to tell, and they serve as a testament to the power of love, compassion, and the indomitable spirit of these incredible animals,” said Tawny Tesconi, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Fair.