A pug named Vito has scored big, being crowned Best in Show at the 2024 National Dog Show held on November 28, 2024. This marks not only Vito's phenomenal achievement but also highlights a significant moment for pugs, being the first dog of his breed to win the prestigious title at this event. Vito's impressive win came during the Thanksgiving Day coverage on NBC, following the beloved Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Vito, just 2.5 years old, faced stiff competition, contending against around 2,000 dogs from over 200 breeds at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center this year. His lead handler, Michael Scott, expressed his optimism before the event, feeling confident about Vito's chances due to his excellent appearance and disposition.
Vito triumphed after winning the Toy Group, proving his superiority by outshining other notable finalists including Verde, the Welsh Terrier, who claimed the second place spot. The pug's co-owner, Carolyn Koch, beamed with pride, noting Vito's charm and character.
Judges evaluated Vito based on standard criteria such as appearance, movement, and overall health, focusing on how well he conformed to the ideal pug features. Judge George Milutinovich remarked, "To look at a pug is to put a smile on your face," reflecting the consensus on Vito's charisma and physical attributes. Notably, Vito has already made a name for himself within the dog show community, previously ranking as the number two toy dog across America and winning his 25th Best in Show title with this latest accolade.
Throughout his career, Vito has participated in over 75 dog shows, earning accolades at significant competitions including winning Best of Breed at the 2024 Westminster Dog Show. His impressive track record makes him one of the most celebrated pugs on the circuit.
The National Dog Show, now celebrating its 92nd year, featured various groups of competing canines, categorized by their characteristics and historical functions. The competition included seven distinct categories: sporting, hound, working, terrier, toy, non-sporting, and herding. Each group crowned its own champion, from which the final Best in Show was selected.
This year, other distinguished winners included Houston, the Clumber Spaniel for the Sporting Group, Monty, the Giant Schnauzer from the Working Group, The Zit, the Ibizan Hound from the Hound Group, and Rupert, the Berger Picard from the Herding Group, culminating with JJ, the Lhasa Apso from the Non-Sporting Group.
Hosted by long-time presenters John O'Hurley and David Frei alongside Mary Carillo, the show highlighted not just the competitive spirit but also the bond between dogs and their handlers. During the show, spectacular moments such as Vito's winning reveal were broadcasted to millions of viewers across America, surpassing 20 million viewers during the Thanksgiving broadcast.
Bringing together dog lovers from all walks of life, the National Dog Show not only celebrates purebred canines but also emphasizes the joys of shared experiences between humans and their canine companions. With the event deeply embedded within Thanksgiving traditions, Vito's victory will surely resonate with dog enthusiasts everywhere, especially fans of the affectionate pug breed.
Reflecting on how far Vito has come within the dog show ranking, his owner Carolyn remarked, "I’m so proud of him. He just impresses everyone with his charming personality and delightful appearance." Each year brings hope and excitement as new talents emerge, but Vito has undoubtedly left paw prints on the heart of the dog show community, paving the way for greater recognition of pugs at such esteemed events.
