The world’s “ugliest dog” is actually super adorable
ICYMI, the 29th annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest was held at the Sonoma Marin Fair in Petaluma, California on June 23rd. However, the world’s “ugliest dog” is actually super adorable, according to NBC News. And, of course, we don’t think any dog — or cat, for that matter! — is actually ugly. For instance, you probably all know about Grumpy Cat (aka Tardar Sauce), who’s made a living off her unique look and is adorbs. But back to the world’s ugliest cutest dog.
The winner of the contest?
A Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha, who’s three years old and 125 pounds. Aside from her new title, she won $1,500, a trophy, and a trip to New York — for camera appearances, of course. And she beat 13 other dogs who were competing! Who knows?! She could be the next Grumpy Cat Dog, right?!
Here’s a look at Martha.
AWWWWWWW. Like we said, “World’s Cutest Dog” to us!
And here she is with her handler, Shirley Zindler.
And if you’re wondering what the animals were judged on, it included audience reaction, first impressions, and unusual attributes.
When one of the three judges, NBC News’ Kerry Sanders, asked Martha: “Do you know you just won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest,” Zindler replied, “I’d gloat, but I need a nap.”
And, indeed, Martha took a nap on stage after winning!
And an amazing part of Martha’s story is, she was nearly blind and rescued from the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project in Santa Rosa, CA when she was younger, according to NBC News. Now, we have ~all the feels~, even more so than we did a moment ago!
As for second and third place, this 16-year-old Brussels Griffon-Pug mix named Moe won second place. Fun fact: He was also the oldest one in the competition.
Here he is with his owner, Miriam Tcheng.
As for third place, this Chinese Crested one, Chase, took home a title, too.
Okay, we are definitely in love with all the dogs above and would not say they’re ugly at all! Now if you’ll excuse us while we go hug our own dogs…
