Former 'World's Ugliest' Dog Dies on Thanksgiving

Elwood was a dog famous for his head-turning appearance–but not in a traditional way.

The nearly hairless Chinese Crested and Chihuahua mix, toothless on one side of his mouth, was crowned the World's Ugliest Dog at the 2007 Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma.

He died on Thanksgiving at his owner's New Jersey home at the age of 8.

The death was unexpected: Owner Karen Quigley told the Associated Press Elwood had been dealing with some health problems lately but seemed to be doing well.

Quigley adopted Elwood in 2005 after his breeder nearly euthanized him because he thought the dog was too ugly to sell, the AP reported.

After his world championship, Elwood became the subject of a children's book written by Quigley, "Everyone Loves Elwood."

"Take your children on a wonderful journey with Elwood as he proves it’s OK to be different," the book's website says. "This adorable dog will make you smile and laugh while sharing lessons of love, compassion and perseverance. And, the very important message to Be Kind To Animals!"

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