World’s Ugliest Dog 2025: Hairless Bulldog Petunia Takes the Crown

Petunia’s story is the kind you don’t expect. The two-year-old bald bulldog from Eugene, Oregon, has gone from a difficult rescue to an international star. At the 2025 World’s Ugliest Dog contest, held at the Sonoma County Fair in Santa Rosa, California, she charmed the judges and claimed the crown. Her win comes with $5,000 in prize money, her face on special-edition Mug Root Beer cans, and a future spot on the Today show-securing her place as the “ugly-cute” queen of the year.

From Chaos to Care

Petunia’s journey to the stage wasn’t glamorous. She was rescued from a hoarding and backyard breeding situation in Las Vegas, described as pure chaos. Brought to Oregon by Luvable Dog Rescue, she was given urgent medical attention, including corrective surgery for an elongated palate that once made breathing a struggle. Despite her rough beginnings, Petunia quickly showed herself to be a gentle soul who loves everyone she meets-dogs, cats, or humans.

Winning Against the “Best of the Worst”

The contest is known for its eccentric lineup, and 2025 was no exception. Petunia faced off against 10 quirky challengers, each with their own charm. Among them were Little Prince Wonder, an 8-year-old Chinese Crested with undeniable flair, and Nezumi, a sassy 13-year-old Chihuahua. Judges were tasked with celebrating individuality rather than perfection, honoring every wrinkle, snaggletooth, and bald patch as part of the fun.

A Celebration Beyond Looks

Running for nearly 50 years, the World’s Ugliest Dog contest has always carried a bigger message. It’s a stage that promotes rescue awareness and proves that every dog, no matter their appearance, deserves love and a home. Most contestants, like Petunia, are rescues who’ve overcome neglect, abuse, or abandonment, and the event highlights their resilience as much as their looks.

An Icon in the Making

For Petunia, victory is about more than a trophy. Her image will soon appear on Mug Root Beer cans across the country, and her television debut is already scheduled. From a chaotic past to global recognition, Petunia is now a symbol of second chances-and proof that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. Hair or no hair, this crown fits her perfectly.