Vito the Pug wins big at 2024 National Dog Show, making breed history

Vito, a pug from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has made history by winning the prestigious Best in Show title at the 2024 National Dog Show.

This marks the first time a pug has claimed the top prize since the event began airing on television in 2002. Vito triumphed over more than 1,900 dogs representing over 200 breeds at the annual event, which took place on November 28, after the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Vito's handler, Michael Scott, shared a moment of humor when Vito, seemingly unaware of the excitement, craned his neck toward Scott after the announcement. "He's very smug," Scott remarked, suggesting that the pug might know he had won.

The 23rd annual National Dog Show, presented by Purina and hosted by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, saw Vito outshine six other finalists. These included Houston, a clumber spaniel, Monty, a giant schnauzer, and JJ, a Lhasa apso, among others. Vito’s win secures him 25 Best in Show titles, adding to an impressive career that includes a Best of Breed win at the 2023 AKC National Show and a Best in Breed honor at the 2024 Westminster Dog Show.

Best in Show judge George Milutinovich praised Vito’s exceptional look, highlighting the pug’s "beautiful head and expression." "To look at a Pug is to put a smile on your face," Milutinovich remarked, impressed by the compact and confident dog.

Vito’s victory took the crown from Stache, a Sealyham Terrier who won in 2023. The event also featured the debut of the Lancashire Heeler, a breed newly recognised by the American Kennel Club.

For those wishing to relive the event, NBC will air an encore presentation of the 2024 National Dog Show on December 1.