New Jersey dog crowned the ugliest

Elwood, a 2-year-old Chinese crested and Chihuahua mix, was crowned as the world’s ugliest dog here Friday, a distinction that delighted the New Jersey mutt’s owners.

Elwood, dark and hairless save for a mohawk-like puff of white fur on his head, is often referred to as “Yoda” or “ET” for his resemblance to those famous science fiction characters.

“I think he’s the cutest thing that ever lived,” said Elwood’s owner, Karen Quigley, of Sewell, N.J.

Quigley brought Elwood out to compete for the second year at the annual ugly dog contest at the Marin-Sonoma County Fair. He placed second last year.

Most of the competing canines were also Chinese crested dogs, a breed that features a mohawk, bug eyes and a long, wagging tongue.

Quigley said she rescued Elwood two years ago. “The breeder was going to euthanize him because she thought he was too ugly to sell,” she said. “So ha ha, now Elwood’s all over the Internet and people love him and adore him.”

Beyond the title, Elwood also earned a $1,000 prize for his owner.