World's Ugliest Dog Contest 2015

Rascal, a Chinese Crested, poses for a portrait after competing in the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

For 27 years, the contest (held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair) has been a testament that all dogs do not have to meet American Kennel Club pedigree standards to be man's (or woman's) best friend.

Spokesperson Karen Spencer told CBS Station KPIX that judges weren't interested in either mutt or pedigree lineage. The dogs were judged on their first impression, unusual attributes, personality, audience reaction, and "natural ugliness."

Peanut

A June 20, 2014 file photo of Peanut, Holly Chandler's two-year-old mutt, who won the title of World's Ugliest Dog last year.

Several of this year's entries had been rescued from shelters, puppy mills and abusive homes. The contest, in addition to celebrating the dogs' lovable personalities, is intended to raise awareness about dog adoptions, according to event organizers.

Morris

Rona Thau holds up Morris during the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Twenty-seven canines competed for this year's title, a $1,500 prize, and a makeover on "Jimmy Kimmel Live."

Chuy

Prince Chuburto Jesus Kowell, or "Chuy," sticks his head between the bars before competing in the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Icky

Icky, a 6-year-old Chinese Crested dog rescued from a "hoarding situation," shares a kiss with owner Jon Adler before competing in the World's Ugliest Dog Contest at the Sonoma-Marin Fair on Friday, June 26, 2015, in Petaluma, Calif.

Grovie

Grovie, held up by owner Jim Partridge, competes in the the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Quasi Modo

Quasi Modo, a 10-year-old hunchbacked hound resembling a hyena, at this year's World's Ugliest Dog competition, held Friday, June 26, 2015, at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, Calif.

Abandoned at a Florida animal shelter, the pit bull-Dutch shepherd mix was rescued by a veterinarian, and named after "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" for his multiple spinal birth defects.

Pork

Pork, a 13-year-old male Chihuahua with blue painted nails, is presented to judges by owner Monica Huerta during the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Pork is an actual pure-bred Chihuahua but was the "beauty challenged" runt of the litter was sold off and later given away to its current owner.

Rascal

Rascal Deux, a Chinese Crested, is presented to judges during the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Rascal comes from a long line of ugly dog title-holders. Think about that.

Sweepee Rambo

Sweepee Rambo, a Chinese Crested, is presented to judges by owner Jason Wurtz during the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Sweepee Rambo

Sweepee Rambo, a blind Chinese Crested, is presented to judges during the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Andre

Andre the Chihuahua participates in the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015.

Quasi Modo

Quasi Modo is presented with a first place prize trophy after winning the World's Ugliest Dog Competition in Petaluma, California on June 26, 2015. Chief Judge Brian Sobel said the Florida dog "epitomized excellence in ugliness," reports CBS Station KPIX.

Sweepee Rambo took second-place honors. Another Chinese Crested-Chihuahua mix, named Frodo, took third place.

Pork

For Pork, there is always next year.

By CBSNews.com senior producer David Morgan