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 issues in recent months but appeared to be doing well.

Elwood was dark coloured 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 ET, for his resemblance to those famous science-fiction characters.

Elwood won his crown at the annual ugly dog contest at the Marin-Sonoma County Fair in California a year after he had finished second.