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Wild Thang: Meet the Courageous Pekingese Who Won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest 2024

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Vidhi

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3 min read

27 Jun, 2024

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In a heartwarming display of resilience and charm, Wild Thang, an eight-year-old Pekingese from Coos Bay, Oregon, captured the spotlight at this year’s World’s Ugliest Dog contest. Held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, this beloved canine defied expectations and won the hearts of judges and spectators alike.


Despite early challenges, including a battle with canine distemper that stunted his teeth growth and left him with a muscular disorder in one leg, Wild Thang exuded a spirit that couldn’t be dimmed. This year marked his fifth appearance at the contest, culminating in his well-deserved first-place victory.



Ann Lewis, Wild Thang’s proud human companion, not only celebrated his triumph but also received a $5,000 prize along with an exclusive appearance on NBC’s Today show. The victory not only highlights Wild Thang’s unique journey but also underscores the contest’s broader mission to advocate for shelter animal adoption—a cause close to many pet lovers’ hearts.


The World’s Ugliest Dog Contest, a beloved tradition in Petaluma since 1971, has become a platform for celebrating the beauty of diversity and second chances among our furry friends. This year’s event showcased a diverse lineup of canine contestants, each with their own tale of survival and perseverance. Among them, Rome, a 14-year-old pug, won the coveted People’s Choice award, demonstrating the public’s affection for these remarkable animals.



Daisy Mae, another inspiring contestant, claimed third place despite her own health challenges, embodying the contest’s spirit of resilience. The event also featured memorable participants like Freddie Mercury, a 14-year-old Brussels Griffon/Pug mix who serves as the mascot of Petaluma’s local ice cream truck—a true local celebrity in his own right.


Judges faced the difficult task of selecting winners from a lineup that included Chihuahua mixes, Chinese Crested mixes, and other unique breeds, each with their own endearing qualities. While Wild Thang’s victory shone brightly, every contestant left an indelible mark, reminding us of the joy and companionship that animals bring into our lives.


As we celebrate Wild Thang’s triumph, we also celebrate the inclusive spirit of the World’s Ugliest Dog contest—a reminder that beauty is found not just in appearance, but in the courage to overcome challenges and the unconditional love our pets offer us every day.

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