Why the long face? You won!

A MASTIFF named Martha has been declared the World’s Ugliest Dog.

The 125lb gentle giant was crowned winner of the 29th annual search for the globe’s most visually challenged pooches.

The Neapolitan mastiff, who delighted with her hound dog face, was a favourite with spectators from the off. She plopped down on her side with her droopy face spread across the ground when she was supposed to be showing off, to the delight of

judges.

Martha’s triumph was especially gladdening for owner Shirley Zindler, as she’s recently undergone several operations to enable her to see properly.

Martha beat 13 other dogs to win the World Ugliest Dog Contest, including Moe, a 16-year-old Brussels griffonpug mix who was the oldest in the competition, came in second.

Chase, a 14-year-old Chinese crested-harke mix, came third.

The canine contestants were judged on first impressions, personality and audience reaction at the competition held in northern California.