Pug Perfection! Meet the Pup That Made History at the National Dog Show

Paws Up, Charlotte! A Pug Steals the National Dog Show Spotlight 🐾

For the first time in history, a pug strutted its way into the winner's circle at the 2024 National Dog Show, claiming the coveted "Best in Show" title. Meet Vito, a lovable, compact champion from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, who bested nearly 2,000 other dogs at the Thanksgiving showcase in Philadelphia.

Why It’s a Big Deal: 🐶

Since the show’s debut in 2002, terriers have dominated with seven wins, but Vito broke the mold—and maybe the internet—by becoming the first pug to claim the top prize.

Judge George Milutinovich summed it up perfectly:

"To look at a pug is to put a smile on your face."

He went on to praise Vito’s ideal proportions, movement, and character, calling him "everything a pug should be." 😍

The Runner-Up:

Second place, aka "Reserve Best in Show," went to Verde, a dashing Welsh terrier from Rialto, California. While Verde’s charm couldn’t clinch the crown, it added another notch to the terrier legacy.

Group Champions Worth Barking About: 🏅

Here’s a rundown of the group winners that turned heads this year:

• Sporting: Houston, a stately Clumber spaniel from Keyport, NJ.

• Working: Monty, a giant schnauzer with a big presence from Chaplin, CT.

• Hound: The Zit, an Ibizan hound with elegance to spare from Spring Hill, FL.

• Herding: Rupert, a Berger Picard that brought the fluff from Shingle Springs, CA.

• Non-Sporting: JJ, a Lhasa Apso with undeniable charisma from Sabot, VA.

Local Pride 🏆

Vito’s win isn’t just a triumph for pug lovers—it’s a win for the Tar Heel State! Chapel Hill, bask in the glory of producing a national champion. Someone start the Vito Parade! 🎉

This moment of canine history is brought to you by Glory Days Apparel, where nostalgia meets style. Whether celebrating pug milestones or just showing off your Queen City pride, Glory Days has you covered. Check out their collection of tees that tell your story—no tail-wagging required!

From the Desk of Jack Beckett 🖊️

Fueled by strong coffee and stronger opinions, I’m here to bring Charlotte the stories that matter (and the ones that make you smile).

Before you go: The Queen City Express is your one-stop shop for the best of Charlotte. We dig deep into local stories, highlight community gems, and even keep you in the loop about championship-winning pugs. From politics to pop culture, we’ve got you covered—thoughtful journalism, minus the clickbait.

Stay sharp, stay caffeinated. ☕

—Jack Beckett