The World’s Ugliest Dog

Well, if at first you don't succeed, try, try again. That is precisely how Elwood won the title of "World's Ugliest Dog" at the Sonoma-Marin fair in California. After placing second last year, he hung on like a bulldog this year and won the prize. And he is one ugly dog - which delights his owners.

Elwood, dark colored and hairless — save for a mohawk-like puff of white fur on his head — is often referred to as "Yoda," or "ET," for his resemblance to those famous science fiction characters.

"I think he's the cutest thing that ever lived," said Elwood's owner, Karen Quigley, a resident of Sewell, New Jersey.

Quigley brought Elwood out to compete for the second year at the annual ugly dog contest at the Marin-Sonoma County Fair. Elwood placed second last year.

Most of the competing canines were also Chinese Crested, a breed that features a mohawk, bug eyes and a long, wagging tongue.

Quigley said she rescued Elwood two years ago. "The breeder was going to euthanize him because she thought he was too ugly to sell," said Quigley.

"So ha ha, now Elwood's all over the Internet and people love him and adore him."

There were quite a few entries in this year's contest. They compete for bragging rights - and $1,000 bucks. (Although we don't think that is enough money to get the dog beautified!)