10:11am UK, Wednesday November 23, 2005

Sam - the ugliest dog in the world - has died just short of his 15th birthday.

The purebred Chinese crested with the hairless body, crooked teeth and sparse tuft of hair was put down last week.

180-Sam the ugliest dog in world Chinese Crested

Only his owner could love him

He had become somewhat of an international celebrity after twice winning an ugliest animal contest in California.

Owner Susie Lockheed travelled the world showing off his rather unappealing looks.

"I don't think there'll ever be another Sam," she said. "Some people would think that's a good thing."

Ms Lockheed said she was initially terrified of Sam when she agreed to take him from an animal rescue group six years ago.

But she soon fell in love with him despite his looks.

Sam had to be put down because his heart was failing.

Ms Lockheed said said she has felt a little lost ever since.

"I have snuggled Sam under my blankets on my bed for six years," she said.