Vito the Pug made history at the 2024 National Dog Show, being crowned “Best in Show” and becoming the first pug to win the prestigious honor since the event began airing on television two decades ago.
The two-and-a-half-year-old pug, owned by Carolyn Koch of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, triumphed over more than 1,900 dogs competing for the title at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. Vito’s victory adds to an already impressive career, having claimed 25 Best in Show awards. He also won “Best of Breed” at this year’s Westminster Dog Show in New York City and at the 2023 AKC National Show, as reported by NBC, which broadcasts the event.
Vito’s journey to the top began when he won the “Toy Group” category, competing against 24 other breeds. His victory in the group placed him in the running for the final Best in Show award, where he stood out for his exceptional appearance, temperament, and structure—all judged in line with his breed’s standards.
In addition to Vito’s win, the competition saw a Welsh Terrier named Verde earn the title of Reserve Best in Show. Other finalists included a giant schnauzer, a Clumber spaniel, a Lhasa apso, a Berger Picard, and an Ibizan hound, each representing a different breed in the annual contest.
The National Dog Show, originally called the Kennel Club of Philadelphia Dog Show, has been a significant part of the dog show calendar since its inception in 1879. It became an annual event in 1933 and has grown in popularity, particularly since it began airing on television in 2002. John O’Hurley and David Frei have been the show’s consistent hosts, providing commentary and color for the audience over the years.
Vito’s victory is a significant milestone for the pug breed, which has often been overlooked in major competitions despite its popularity as a family pet. His win underscores the diversity of breeds represented in top dog shows and highlights the competitive nature of the National Dog Show, which remains one of the most-watched dog events in the country.