A wrinkled wonder named Petunia strolled into history at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, California. 

In this long-standing tradition, the 2-year-old hairless English-French bulldog mix from Eugene, Oregon, was declared the winner of the World's Ugliest Dog competition. This title celebrates not mockery but the crowning of tenacity and unreserved individuality.

Petunia’s journey began in Las Vegas, where she was rescued from the chaos of a backyard breeder and hoarder. 

Taken in by Luvable Dog Rescue, she received medical care — including surgery for an elongated palate — and found her forever home with Shannon Nyman. “She’s the most wrinkled 2-year-old I’ve ever seen,” one judge quipped, while another likened her texture to a hippopotamus

Petunia didn’t arrive in Santa Rosa with a pedigree or polish. She came as she was: a rescue dog with misaligned teeth, wandering eyes, and a spirit that radiated joy. 

She embodied the contest's nearly 50-year tradition of highlighting the beauty in imperfection as she stood boldly next to her human, Shannon Nyman.

Every year, this valued tradition recognizes canines who exceed traditional expectations. In 2024, there was Wild Thang, who had a pink tongue that never quite fit in and dazzling eyes beneath a frizzed cap. In 2023, Scooter will be a shiny black jelly bean with a mohawk. In 2022, Mr. Happy Face, a Chihuahua hybrid whose appearance resembled everything from hyenas to mandrill baboons.

Behind the quirky charm lies a powerful message, “pedigree does not define the pet.”

The event celebrates rescue dogs and shelter animals, many of which have survived puppy mills and other adversity. It's a celebration of second chances, reminding us that love isn't limited to the perfect — it can be found in crooked smiles, missing fur, and memories inscribed into every scar. The competition is more than simply a spectacle. It's a full-day event with pet care classes, adoption options, and thorough health screenings for all attendees. Before taking the stage, each dog is thoroughly vetted, both literally and lovingly. And every wag, wobble, and woof demonstrates the belief that every animal deserves a home, a family, and a chance to shine.