For this competition, it pays to be ugly.
A crop of homely canines are getting ready for the 26th annual World’s Ugliest Dog Contest, to be held Friday at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California.
Contestants are reported to be coming to the fair from throughout the country to participate, where they are judged in four areas: first impressions, unique features, audience reaction and personality. The winner will not only get the flattering title of the World’s Ugliest Dog, but it will also walk away with a cash prize of $1,500.
While the event may seem like a cruel joke, its organizers insist that it's more about showing off the dogs' inner beauty.
"The annual World's Ugliest Dog Contest is not about making fun of ugly dogs," reads a press release from the organizers, "but having fun with some wonderful characters and showing the world that these dogs are really beautiful."
Take a look at some of this year’s top contenders and vote for the dog that you think should walk away with the top title.
Addie
Auggie
Boogie
Cupake L
Cupcake T
Cyndy Loo Whoo
Faith
Grovie
Josie
Macie
Monkey
Peanut
Quasi Modo
Rascal
Reggie
Rue
Shorty
Sweepee Rambo
Willie Bean Walker
Yoda