A pug that narrowly avoided becoming a meal in South Korea has been crowned the winner of this year’s “World’s Ugliest Dog” contest in Northern California.
The 6-year-old pug, named Jinny Lu, with her tongue perpetually sticking out, claimed the title at the annual event held at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa on August 14.
Having participated in the contest four times after traveling from Ukiah, Jinny Lu finally achieved victory this year.
She was rescued and adopted by Michelle Grady through her pug rescue organization four years ago from South Korea’s dog meat market.
“She absolutely loves competition, meeting everyone, and everything the event stands for,” Grady shared with the Press Democrat about her pet.
“When she’s not entertaining her family, Jinny Lu serves as an ambassador for rescue dogs,” organizers said in a post about the winner.
“She visits elementary schools, hospice patients, and memory care facilities, spreading an important message: every pet deserves a chance, regardless of their appearance.”
In addition to bragging rights, Jinny Lu received $5,000 and a trip to New York City to appear on the “Today” show.
Jinny Lu will also be featured on limited-edition MUG Root Beer cans, as the event’s sponsors for the third consecutive year.
The contest attracted various breeds, including pugs, chihuahuas, and Chinese-Crested/Gremlin mixes, from across the country and the globe. Among them was a 12-year-old Chinese Crested from Poland, all competing for the prestigious title.
Nine dogs participated in the contest with their owners. Pinky, a Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix owned by Laura Brown of Redwood City, secured second place and won $3,000.
The third place went to Otto, a 2-year-old Chihuahua mix from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Otto’s owner, Melinda Berry, mentioned that the dog has a bilateral cleft lip and cleft palate, which is rare for dogs with similar conditions. Otto took home a $2,000 prize.
The Sonoma-Marin Agriculture Association hosts the event to promote animal adoption and rescue.
Organizers emphasized that the contest, running for over 50 years, is not just about highlighting the “ugliest” dogs but about showing that all dogs, irrespective of appearance, deserve a loving home.
“This event has always been about celebrating dogs that might otherwise be overlooked,” said Mandy Clendenen, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Agricultural Association.
“We are incredibly proud of what the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest has become and grateful to have partners like MUG Root Beer who understand the heart behind it.”
“Together, we’re able to have some fun while sharing a much bigger message about adoption and giving every dog a chance to be loved,” she added.
