According to the organisers, the Sonoma-Marin Agricultural Association in Santa Rosa, California, the competition - which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year - has never really been about finding the world's ugliest dog, but rather about highlighting rescued animals and celebrating the individuality of dogs.
"For 50 years, this event has celebrated the unique character of each dog while conveying an important message of compassion and acceptance," the organisation's CEO Mandy Clendenen told the news site KSHB.
Jinny Lu participated in the competition for the fourth time and also "works" as an ambassador for rescued dogs, visiting elementary schools, hospice patients and dementia wards.
Her owner now goes home $5,000 richer.
