"Quasi Modo" Wins World's Ugliest Dog Competition

A hunchbacked mutt named Quasi Modo has been crowned the World's Ugliest Dog.

The crossbreed, which has a shortened spine that makes it resemble a hyena, beat 26 other finalists to the award during the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California.

Chief judge Brian Sobel said he'd "epitomised excellence in ugliness".

Winning this title isn't all bad - Quasi Modo won $1500 and will get a full makeover on Jimmy Kimmel Live. He will also attend media events in New York and San Francisco.

More than 500 spectators clapped and cheered as the 27 underdogs made their way into the venue to compete.

Judges scored the dogs based on their first impression, unusual attributes, natural ugliness, personality and audience impression.

The organisers say many of the animals have been rescued from shelters and puppy mills, and that they hope the contest will help raise awareness for adoption of any dog - despite their physical detractions.

Karen Spencer, Sonoma-Marin Fair marketing director, said: "We aren't interested in lineage, it's the inner beauty and personality that shine in our World's Ugliest Dog Contest."