In an exciting twist for dog lovers, America has welcomed a pug as its new national dog champion. Vito, a charismatic pug, has made history by winning best in show at the 92nd annual National Dog Show Presented by Purina, marking the first time in over 20 years that this breed has earned such a prestigious title.
Vito currently holds the title of the top pug across all competitive show systems and is also recognized as the second-ranked toy dog in the United States. Notably, he has secured best of breed at both the prestigious Westminster Dog Show in New York City and the AKC National Show in 2023. With an impressive record, Vito has achieved 25 best-in-show awards throughout his young career, despite being just 2-and-a-half years old.
His co-owner, Carolyn Koch from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, expressed immense pride in Vito’s achievements, stating, “I’m so proud of him.” Koch described pugs as “her breed” and shared her joy at seeing Vito gain recognition in the competitive world of show dogs.
This victory is a delightful reminder of the charm and appeal that pugs bring, and it highlights the potential for any breed to shine in the spotlight. Vito’s success reinvigorates interest in pugs as show dogs and showcases the bond between humans and their canine companions, providing hope and inspiration for dog owners everywhere.
In summary, Vito’s triumph not only sets a new benchmark for pugs but also emphasizes the diverse talent present in the dog show community, encouraging more people to embrace their love for various breeds.