A charming pug named Vito emerged as the champion at the 2024 National Dog Show, showcasing his delightful personality and impressive features. The beloved event aired following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28, bringing joy to dog enthusiasts everywhere.
Vito, accompanied by his handler Michael Scott from Chesapeake City, Maryland, appeared on TODAY to celebrate their victory, highlighting the pug’s extraordinary presence. David Frei, a seasoned host of the National Dog Show, affectionately described Vito as having “the perfect pug mug” and noted his captivating character, saying, “He owns the ground he stands over.”
Living with owner Carolyn Koch in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, Vito celebrated his big win with a special meal of his favorite food. Handler Scott shared insights on preparing Vito for the competition, emphasizing the importance of a healthy diet and regular exercise to maintain his excellent condition.
Vito is already well-known in the dog show realm, currently ranked as the No. 2 toy dog in the United States, and has accumulated an impressive record of 25 Best in Shows across approximately 75 all-breed competitions. Judge George Milutinovich praised Vito’s compact features, movement, and the sheer joy a pug brings to onlookers, remarking that “to look at a pug is to put a smile on your face.”
The National Dog Show, organized by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, featured around 2,000 dogs representing 205 breeds this year. The competition involved selecting a winner from seven groups, ultimately leading to Vito being named Best in Show, earning him the coveted red, white, and blue ribbon along with a prize of $20,000. The Reserve Best in Show title went to a Welsh Terrier named Verde.
Other notable group winners included Houston the Clumber Spaniel in the sporting category, Monty the Giant Schnauzer in working, The Zit the Ibizan Hound in hound, Rupert the Berger Picard in herding, and JJ the Lhasa Apso in non-sporting.
The show, hosted by personalities including “Seinfeld” star John O’Hurley and sports analyst Mary Carillo, brought together dog lovers and showcased the remarkable talents and beauty of dogs from around the country.
Vito’s triumph not only highlights the joy and companionship dogs bring to our lives but also serves as an inspiration for pet owners to nurture and bond with their furry friends. Every dog, like Vito, deserves a moment to shine, and this victory is a reminder of the love and dedication behind these gentle champions of the canine world.