A new champion stole the spotlight at the 2024 National Dog Show on Nov. 28.
Vito, a 2-year-old pug, made history as the first of his breed to win the prestigious Best in Show title, capturing hearts and the top prize at the annual Thanksgiving Day event.
Vito outshone around 2,000 competitors from 205 breeds, first earning the title of Best in Breed and triumphing in the toy group category.
He then faced off against the winners of the other show groups, including Houston the Clumber Spaniel, Monty the giant schnauzer, Zit the Ibizan hound, Rupert the Berger Picard, JJ the Lhasa Apso, and Verde the Welsh terrier, who was named Reserve Best in Show as runner-up.
“I’m so proud of him,” co-owner Carolyn Koch told NBC News, calling pugs “her breed.” Vito’s handler, Michael Scott, expressed optimism even before the event, noting Vito’s impressive show record of 24 prior Best in Show titles.
Best-in-show judge George Milutinovich praised Vito for his “compact features, movement, and everything a pug should be,” describing the 18-pound champion as “lots of dog in a small package.”
He added, “To look at a pug is to put a smile on your face.”
Vito takes over the crown from last year’s winner, Stache the Sealyham terrier, who was also a groundbreaking champion as the first of its breed to claim the title.
With his charming presence and undeniable talent, Vito has cemented his place in National Dog Show history, proving that big personalities often come in small packages.
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