World's Most Ugliest Dog Died At 8

A New Jersey canine that was crowned the world's ugliest dog in 2007 and later became the topic of a children's book preaching acceptance has died. Elwood was 8.

His owner, Karen Quigley, says the Chinese crested and Chihuahua mix died unexpectedly Thanksgiving morning. The Sewell resident says Elwood had been dealing with some heath issues in recent months but appeared to be doing well.

He wasinitially was deemed by his breeder to be so 'ugly' he was nearly put down, according to Quigley’s website.

In early 2013 Quigely said she would “retire” Elwood from public events.

'When this ‘angel’ boy came into my life, he has worked tirelessly on behalf of homeless and abused animals everywhere,' wrote Quigley.

'Elwood has traveled extensively… appearing at over 200 events raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for innumerable rescue groups and non-profit animal organizations.'