World's ugliest dog is crowned in California (photos)

A 17-year-old, blind Chihuahua named Sweepee Rambo has beaten 16 other contestants to emerge the world's ugliest dog and net its owner a £1000 cash prize and a six-foot trophy.

The dog impressed judges with its ugliness as it walked the red carpet.

The World's Ugliest Dog competition, now in its 28th year, is held at the Sonoma-Marin Fairgrounds in Petaluma, California, about 40 miles (64 km) north of San Francisco.

A panel of judges score the contestants based on first impression, unusual attributes, natural ugliness and personality.