This 17-year-old Chinese crested defeated nine competitors last week in the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest, a decades-old event held annually in Petaluma, California.
The champ was adopted as a rescue in August last year by an Arizona musician, Jeneda Benally.
“During the pandemic, I had hoped to either have a baby or adopt a dog. Since having a baby would have been an act of God, I opted to adopt a dog,” Benally, 41, said as she introduced the pooch at the contest.
At the shelter, she said she was told about an older dog with health problems, a creature that “could be inbred because he was so ugly”.
“The shelter staff tried to prepare me for what I was about to see. I saw a creature who was indeed old, needed a second chance, and deserved to be loved,” said the proud owner.
“I believe this humble soul, in subtle ways, helps humans realise that even old dogs need love and a family, too.”
She said Mr Happy Face had previously lived with a person who hoarded, and conditions were abominable. “He is a survivor of abuse and neglect.”
Vets said with his poor health, the dog might only live a few weeks. He suffers from tumours and multiple conditions and could have possibly been inbred.
“Love, kindness and mummy kisses have helped him defy the anticipated short life that we all expected him to have with our family,” Benally added.
“His hobbies include sleeping, snoring, woofing in his sleep, and making odd sounds when he is happy.”
Banelly said the dog, who has his tongue sticking out in every photograph, has goals to have a longer tongue than Gene Simmons and a more dashing snarl than Billy Idol.
Mr Happy Face beat out eight other dogs for the title, including a dog that resembled the Star Trek fuzzball alien called a “tribble”, which finished second.
“It was clear and obvious Mr Happy Face deserved to be champion,” said Debra Mathy, one of the contest’s judges. “All the obstacles this dog overcame physically and in his past life – it’s amazing.”
Organisers say this of the competition itself: “Dogs of all breeds and sizes have warmed our hearts and filled our lives with unconditional love. This world-renowned event celebrates the imperfections that make all dogs special and unique.”