At the 2024 National Dog Show, Vito the Pug earned the prestigious “Best in Show” title, marking a historic win for the breed. This is the first time a pug has achieved this honor in the show’s two decades of television broadcasts.
Competing at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, Vito, a two-and-a-half-year-old pug from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and his owner, Carolyn Koch, triumphed over other contenders. Vito boasts an impressive record of 25 “best in show” awards, including wins at this year’s Westminster Dog Show and the 2023 AKC National Show.
Vito initially secured victory in his category, competing against 24 other breeds.
A Welsh Terrier named Verde claimed the Reserve Best in Show title. Other finalists included a giant schnauzer, a Clumber spaniel, a Lhasa apso, a Berger Picard, and an Ibizan hound. Judging criteria encompassed overall appearance, temperament, and conformation to breed standards.
Initially known as the Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show, the National Dog Show became an annual event in 1933. Since its television debut in 2002, the show has consistently featured hosts John O’Hurley and David Frei.
Vito’s handler, Michael Scott, praised the pug’s “beautiful head and expression,” describing him as “a very compact dog” with “wonderful movement.”
Mary Carillo, a sports commentator and former professional tennis player who joined the hosting team this year, shared in the celebration, commenting on Vito’s seemingly smug demeanor and asking if he knew he had won.
“He’s very smug,” Scott confirmed. “I think he knows.”
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