“Unconventional Beauty Reigns: Scooter Takes Home Title in the 2023 World’s Ugliest Dog Competition”

On June 23, 2023, Scooter won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California, beating other uniquely-looking dogs. The 7-year-old hairless Chinese Crested dog was born with deformed back legs and was saved by SAFE (Saving Animals From Euthanasia) rescue group. As the grand prize winner, Scooter gets $1,500, a trophy, and the admiration of thousands of fans. The competition aims to inspire love for all animals, especially rescue pets, and raise awareness for dog adoption. The event has been held annually for over 20 years, with last year’s winner being Mr. Happy Face, who won due to his crooked grin and white mohawk.

Meet the champion of the 2022 World’s Ugliest Dog Contest, Mr. Happy Face! He joins a notable group of over a dozen other pups who have been crowned winners, including Scamp the Tramp, who won in 2019, and Zsa Zsa, who used her wide stance and teeth-exposing underbite to take the title in 2018. Along with prizes for first, second, and third place, the contest also awards a People’s Choice Award and a Spirit Award. Stay on top of the latest and greatest from PEOPLE by signing up for their free daily newsletter.

On June 23, 2023, Rascal Deux was named the winner of the People’s Choice Award at the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California. The award is determined by votes from the online community and announced during the competition. Rascal Deux stood out as the crowd favorite this year. Additionally, the Spirit Award was presented to a dog who overcame challenges or offered service to their community, and Harold Bartholomew received the honor in 2023.

On June 23rd, 2023, Harold Bartholomew took home the coveted Spirit Award at the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California. This recognition was well-deserved for his unique appearance and personality. The event was a great success, and Harold’s win was a highlight of the day.