A pug with a protruding tongue is officially the World's Ugliest Dog — fetching her a cool $5,000, a trophy and a trip to New York

Jinny Lu’s road to the crown wasn’t an easy one. She finished second in 2025 and this year marked her fourth attempt at the title.

Her story had much humbler beginnings far from the red carpet: She was rescued in South Korea after reportedly being found in a wooden box in freezing conditions in the mountains. She was eventually brought to the U.S. by a pug rescue organization and adopted by owner Michelle Grady.

Now she’s a champion with a check.

From rescue dog to $5,000 winner

The annual contest is less about poking fun at funny-looking pups than its name might suggest. Organizers use the event to celebrate unconventional dogs and promote pet adoption, and many competitors have rescue stories of their own.

Mandy Clendenen, CEO of the Sonoma-Marin Agricultural Association shared a press release with Moneywise.

“This event has always been about celebrating the dogs that might otherwise be overlooked,” she said. “We’re incredibly proud of what the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest has become and grateful to have partners like MUG Root Beer who understand the heart behind it. Together, we’re able to have some fun while sharing a much bigger message about adoption and giving every dog a chance to be loved.”

This year, Jinny Lu walked away with a trophy, a monetary prize of $5,000, plus a trip to New York for an appearance on NBC’s Today Show. She’ll also get another claim to fame: Her face is expected to appear on limited-edition cans of contest sponsor Mug Root Beer.

Pinky, an albino Chihuahua-Pomeranian mix, took home second place and $3,000, while Otto, a Chihuahua mix with a double cleft lip and cleft palate, finished third and earned $2,000.

While it may not be Powerball lottery money, $5,000 is still the kind of unexpected cash injection that can make a meaningful difference to a household’s finances. Especially if you resist the urge to spend it all at once on chew toys.

What could you do with an unexpected windfall?

Whether it comes from a contest, work bonus, inheritance or another windfall, the first move is the simplest: Don’t rush to spend it.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission says a lump-sum payment can provide a longer-term financial boost when it’s used to cut down debt and bolster savings and investments.

If you’re carrying high-interest credit-card debt, tackling that could be one of the strongest uses of the money. The SEC notes that paying off high-interest debt can effectively be one of the best “investments” you make because the interest charged on that debt is often higher than the return you could reasonably expect from investing.

Not carrying any debt? Consider adding to your emergency fund. Keeping cash available in a bank or credit union account can help cover an unexpected car repair, bill or other financial surprise without forcing you to reach for a credit card.