You've seen them while scrolling late at night—those dogs with tongues that just won't stay in, hair that looks like a static electricity experiment gone wrong, and eyes pointing in two different zip codes. They’re the "glugly" ones. That’s glamorous and ugly, in case you were wondering.
Honestly, the top 25 ugliest dogs pictures you see circulating online aren't just for shock value. Most of these dogs are the superstars of the World’s Ugliest Dog® Contest held every year in Petaluma, California. They aren't "ugly" because of bad luck; they’re unique because of genetics, survival stories, and a whole lot of personality.
The Hall of Fame: Why We Can’t Look Away
Let’s talk about Wild Thang. This 8-year-old Pekingese finally took the crown in 2024 after trying five times. Talk about persistence! He survived distemper as a puppy, which is why his tongue permanently hangs out and his right leg does a little "paddling" motion when he walks. He looks like a sentient piece of shag carpet, and honestly, it's endearing.
Then there is Petunia, the 2025 winner. She’s a hairless Frenchie and English Bulldog mix. Imagine a wrinkly, pink little potato with a face only a mother (and a panel of judges) could love. She’s healthy as a horse now, but she’s a rescue who had some rough early years.
The Heavy Hitters of "Ugly"
- Sam (The GOAT): If you search for the all-time "ugliest" dog, Sam usually pops up first. He was a blind Chinese Crested who won three years in a row (2003-2005). He looked less like a dog and more like a cryptid you’d find in a haunted forest.
- Quasi Modo: A short-spine Pit Bull/Dutch Shepherd mix. Because of a rare birth defect, she basically has no neck. She looks like a hyena or a tiny gargoyle.
- Scooter: The 2023 champ. He’s a Chinese Crested with backwards-facing hind legs. He walks on his front paws like a little acrobat.
- Zsa Zsa: This English Bulldog had a tongue so long it actually hit the floor. She won in 2018 and became an overnight sensation because she looked like she was permanently tasting the air.
- Martha: A 125-pound Neapolitan Mastiff. She didn't have a deformity; she just had so much skin. She would literally plop her face on the stage and let it spread out like a puddle of grey velvet.
It's a Breed Thing, Kinda
If you look at the top 25 ugliest dogs pictures, you’ll notice some patterns. Certain breeds just have a "head start" in the unconventional beauty department.
📖 Related: Finding the Right Words: Quotes About Sons That Actually Mean Something
Chinese Cresteds are the undisputed kings of this list. They come in two varieties: Powderpuff and Hairless. The hairless ones have these wispy tufts on their heads and feet, making them look like tiny, frantic professors.
Xoloitzcuintlis (Mexican Hairless Dogs) are another frequent flier. They have ancient roots and were actually sacred to the Aztecs. Today, they mostly just win contests for their mohawks and lack of dental alignment.
Don't forget the Pugs and Brussels Griffons. These "brachycephalic" breeds have flat faces that often lead to underbites and bulging eyes. When you cross them—like the "Brug"—you get a dog that looks remarkably like an Ewok that's seen some things.
The "Ugly" Dog Misconception
People think these dogs are "ugly" because they're sick or mistreated. Usually, it's the opposite. Most of the famous dogs on this list are rescues. Their owners spend thousands on surgeries for things like BOAS (breathing issues) or dental work.
👉 See also: Williams Sonoma Deer Park IL: What Most People Get Wrong About This Kitchen Icon
Peanut, the 2014 winner, is a great example. He was a victim of animal abuse and was seriously burned in a fire. He lost his lips and eyelids. His owner, Holly Chandler, used his "ugliness" to raise money for other abused animals. That’s the real tea: these contests are actually huge adoption drives.
Why We Love the Weird Ones
Conventional beauty is boring. A Golden Retriever is great, sure, but a dog that looks like a crumpled-up paper bag? That dog has stories.
- Personality over looks: These dogs often have massive egos. They think they're gorgeous.
- Resilience: Most have overcome major health hurdles or abandonment.
- Social Media Stars: Weird-looking dogs get way more engagement. Just look at "Tuna Melts My Heart" (the famous Chiweenie with the massive overbite).
How to Celebrate Unconventional Pups
If you’re looking at these top 25 ugliest dogs pictures and thinking you want a "unique" pet of your own, there are a few things to keep in mind. Hairless breeds need sunscreen. Seriously. They can get sunburned just like we do. They also need sweaters in the winter because they have zero insulation.
Also, those wrinkly faces? You’ve got to clean between the folds. If you don't, they get "yeasty," and that’s a smell you don't want in your living room.
✨ Don't miss: Finding the most affordable way to live when everything feels too expensive
Realities of Owning a "Contest-Ready" Dog
Owning a dog that could win a contest isn't all red carpets and trophies. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs often struggle in the heat. Their cooling systems—basically their noses—don't work as well as a Husky's.
If you're adopting a rescue with a severe deformity, like a "short spine" dog, you might need a specialized vet. But honestly, the bond you form with a "misfit" is usually pretty intense. They know they're different, and they seem to appreciate the fact that you don't care.
Practical Steps for Fans of "Ugliest" Breeds
- Check Local Rescues: Search for breed-specific rescues for Chinese Cresteds or Bulldogs. Many "imperfect" dogs are passed over at shelters.
- Follow the Contest: The World's Ugliest Dog Contest happens every June at the Sonoma-Marin Fair. It’s the best place to see these icons in person.
- Donate to Specialists: Support groups like the Dogwood Animal Rescue Project, which helped Martha the Mastiff. They take in the dogs that others think are "unadoptable."
Instead of just laughing at a photo, look for the story behind the snaggletooth. Most of these dogs are living better lives than we are, fueled by rotisserie chicken and the undivided attention of their owners.
When you're ready to look past the "ugly" and see the character, you’re ready to be a dog person. Start by researching specialized rescues in your area that focus on senior dogs or those with "special needs"—they are the ones that usually have the most love to give.