In a comical twist on the traditional beauty contest, a photography printing firm in the UK recently held a contest to find the country’s ugliest dog. After months of sifting through hundreds of entries, the judges at parrotprint.com Finally picked a winner — a Chinese Crested/Pug mix named Peggy who lives with her person, Holly Middleton, in East Yorkshire.

She may not be much to look at, but this little girl captured the hearts of the nation after winning her title and making media appearances on BBC Breakfast, This Morning, Channel 5 News and BBC 5 Live. Needless to say, Holly and her family also adore Peggy, who came to them after a less than promising start in life.

The runt of an accidental litter, Peggy was left behind as the rest of her brothers and sisters were adopted. Six months went by, and still the little pup remained with her mother. No one seemed to want her — that is, until Holly came along.

“We loved her the instant we laid eyes on her, with her big brown eyes, little tuft of white hair, and her tongue lolling out to one side,” Holly told parrotprint.com, adding that despite her odd appearance, she’s a happy and healthy dog. “From the moment she arrived, she’s been a beloved addition to our family. She has grown up alongside our two boys and is the most loving, laid back and gentle dog we could ever ask for.”

Peggy will soon be photographed claiming her prize of a makeover and pamper session at a doggie spa.

“We hope it encourages people to overlook the little oddities of those dogs left on the shelf,” says Holly. “We think Peggy is beautiful both inside and out, and wouldn’t change her for the world.”

AUTHOR PROFILE

Animal Wellness

Animal Wellness is North America\’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.