New York, NY – For the first time in at least two decades, a pug, named Vito, has been crowned Best in Show at the 92nd annual National Dog Show.
Vito, a 2½-year-old pug from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, is the top-ranked pug in all show systems and the second-ranked toy dog in the U.S. He has earned 25 Best-in-Show titles, including Best of Breed at both the Westminster Dog Show and the AKC National Show.
Vito impressed judges with his “compact” features, movement, and overall appearance, earning praise for his beautiful head and expression. His handler, Michael Scott, was optimistic about their chances, and Vito was selected over a strong field of competitors, including a Welsh terrier, a giant schnauzer, and a Clumber spaniel.
Vito’s victory earned co-owners Carolyn Koch, Joy Barbieri, and Rebecca Movall a $2,000 prize. Reserve Best in Show went to Verde, a Welsh terrier, handled by Gabriel Rangel. The National Dog Show, held annually in Philadelphia since 1933, features about 2,000 AKC-registered dogs. Last year’s winner was a Sealyham terrier named Stache.
Source: nbcnews.com
