Elwood, crowned 'World's Ugliest Dog', has died aged 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.Elwood was dark colored and hairless — save for a puff of white fur resembling a Mohawk on his head. He was often referred to by fans as Yoda, or E.T., for his resemblance to those famous science-fiction characters.Elwood’s distinctive looks, hairless except for a tuft on his head and a tongue that was permanently out on one side, became an asset when he won his crown at the 2007 ugly dog contest at the Marin-Sonoma County Fair in California a year after he had finished second.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.'(dailymail.co.uk)ANN.Az