Historic Win for Vito the Pug at the National Dog Show
A remarkable achievement unfolded at the annual Thanksgiving Day National Dog Show, where Vito the Pug made history by becoming the first pug to ever capture the prestigious ‘Best In Show’ title. This milestone marks a significant moment for the breed, as it is the first time in two decades that a pug has earned this honor, according to NBC News.
Vito’s Impressive Accolades
Beyond this historic win, Vito is recognized as the top-ranked pug across all show systems and claimed victory in the Toy Group category during this year’s competition. Judging for the National Dog Show is based on the overall appearance, temperament, and structural integrity of the contestants, adhering to each breed’s official standards.
Vito triumphed over stiff competition, which included a top-ranked Welsh terrier, a giant schnauzer, a Clumber spaniel, a Lhasa apso, a Berger Picard, and an Ibizan hound. The esteemed judge, George Milutinovich, praised Vito’s attributes, stating he is “compact, features, movement — everything a pug should be.”
Celebrations and Future Prospects
Vito’s co-owner, Carolyn Koch from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, expressed immense pride in her champion pug, stating that Pugs are “her breed.” Vito’s handler, Michael Scott of Chesapeake City, Maryland, remained optimistic throughout the competition, saying, “I always hope to get a really good look from the judge. Vito has a beautiful head and expression. Great outline.”
Winning the title comes with a cash prize of $2,000 for Vito’s owners—including Koch and co-owners Joy Barbieri and Rebecca Movall from Stanfordville, New York. This win is not Vito’s first; at just two-and-a-half years old, he has already amassed 25 best-in-show titles.
Furthermore, Vito secured the title of best of breed at the Westminster Dog Show held in New York City earlier this year and also triumphed at the AKC National Show last year.
About the National Dog Show
The National Dog Show is an annual competition presented by the Kennel Club of Philadelphia, broadcast on Thanksgiving Day by NBC. This year’s event took place on November 16 and 17, featuring approximately 2,000 dogs from 205 different breeds, including the newly recognized Lancashire Heeler.
Best in Breed Winners of 2023
This year’s Best in Breed winners included:
- Herding: Rupert (Berger Picard)
- Working: Monty (Giant Schnauzer)
- Toy: Vito (Pug)
- Sporting: Houston (Clumber Spaniel)
- Hound: The Zit (Ibizan Hound)
- Terrier: Verde (Welsh Terrier)
- Non-sporting: JJ (Lhasa Apso)
Vito’s historic win has certainly added a new chapter to the legacy of pugs in dog shows worldwide.
