Photos: Top 3 Finishers In World's Ugliest Dog Competition

PETALUMA, CA — The World's Ugliest Dog® can still make hearts sing.

Wild Thang, owned by Ann Lewis of North Bend, Oregon, took home the coveted title Friday at the 2024 World’s Ugliest Dog® Contest. Wild Thang is an 8-year-old Pekingese who has become a familiar face to fans of the contest held annually at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma. It marks Wild Thang's fifth time participating, and his victory is a testament to his undeniable charm and resilience, organizers said.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including surviving a distemper as a puppy, Wild Thang emerged as a healthy and happy "Glugly" ( glamorous/ugly guy). His mission is to raise awareness about the importance of pet vaccinations. He uses his popular Instagram account, @Wildthangofficial, to spread his message far and wide.

In addition to a guest spot Monday morning on the "Today" show, where he captivated audiences with his unique charm and stories, Wild Thang also has the opportunity to be featured on limited-edition cans of MUG Root Beer, further cementing his place in history. The cans featuring the top dog's mugshot will be released via social media by mid-July. Fans can enter to win one of the limited-edition cans via @mugrootbeer on Instagram and Tik Tok.

Wild Thang also got a share of $10,000 in cash prizes from MUG® Root Beer, a new sponsor of the World’s Ugliest Dog® contest. MUG upped the ante this year by offering $5,000 to the first-place winner, $3,000 to the second-place winner, and $2,000 to the third-place winner.

Rohnert Park's Rome Wins Second Place, $3K

This year's highly anticipated competition featured diverse contestants, each with a remarkable story to tell.

In second place and winner of the "People's Choice" award was Rome, owned by Michelle Grady of Rohnert Park, California.

Rome is a 14-year-old Pug from The Pug Hotel in Rohnert Park. He’s a sweet old man in a tiny pug body who has captured the hearts of many with his endearing personality and happy feet.

Despite his bowed legs, Rome's zest for life is evident in his tippy tap dance moves. Beyond the contest, Rome contributed to his community as a 2023 Wheeling Pug Relay team member traveling across America, raising funds to provide wheelchairs for differently-abled dogs. He also brings joy to hospice patients and educates children about the importance of adopting senior rescue pets.

Lafayette's Daisy Mae Wins Third Place, $2K

Securing the third-place position was Daisy Mae, owned by Elizabeth Whitehouse.

The 14-ish-year-old beauty hails from Lafayette, California. Daisy's unconventional looks have made her a true queen of unconventional beauty. Rescued from the streets at a young age, Daisy overcame adversity and blossomed into a confident and spunky pup.

Daisy's favorite pastimes include snuggling, annoying her older sister Harriet, and engaging in intense squirrel-chasing sessions. Her journey inspires us by reminding us that true beauty lies within.

Also See:

• This CA City Is America's Happiest City In 2024: WalletHub Study
• This Is The Most Charming Small Town In California, Report Says