By Staff Reporter (staff@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Feb 01, 2014 11:50 AM EST

The Chinese Crested and Chihuahua mix, Elwood died unexpectedly on Nov. 28 in New Jersey. He was 8 years old.

According to Reuters, Elwood who was considered the World's Ugliest Dog, died on Thanksgiving morning in his owner Karen Quigley's arms, who adopted him when he was just nine months old.

Quigley of Sewell, New Jersey, said that cancer could be the possible cause of his death, according to his veterinarian. His dark, hairless skin, a long tuft of white hair in his forehead and an unusual mug landed Elwood the title of "The 2007 World's Ugliest Dog" contest, an annual event held in California.

In his owner's eyes, Elwood was the most beautiful dog who taught kids that being different is something good, "You don't have to be perfect to be special," she added.