The Unstoppable Pug: 7 Shocking Facts About Vito, The 2024 National Dog Show Best In Show Winner
The canine world was left stunned on Thanksgiving Day, 2024, when a small, fawn-colored Pug with an immense personality trotted his way into history. Vito the Pug, officially known as GCHG Andi In Cahoots, clinched the coveted Best in Show title at the 23rd National Dog Show Presented by Purina, becoming the first dog of his ancient breed to ever claim the top prize in the event's two-decade history. This victory was not just a win for Vito; it was a monumental achievement for the entire Pug community, proving that a compact, cobby build and a charming, wrinkled expression can indeed triumph over 1,900 other elite competitors.
The win, broadcast to millions across the United States on NBC, cemented Vito’s status as a legend. His handler, Michael Scott, guided the 18-pound powerhouse through the rigorous judging process, first securing the Toy Group victory before facing off against six other top-tier group winners. This article dives deep into the biography, the unprecedented victory, and the specific qualities that made Vito "everything a Pug should be" in the eyes of the judges.
Vito the Pug: Complete Biography and Show Profile
Vito, the history-making Pug, is more than just a charismatic face. His success is the result of world-class breeding, expert handling, and a conformation that perfectly meets the demanding breed standard. Here is his complete profile.
- Registered Name: GCHG Andi In Cahoots
- Call Name: Vito
- Breed: Pug
- Group: Toy Group
- Date of Birth/Age: 2 1/2 years old (as of the 2024 show)
- Color: Fawn
- Weight: 18 pounds
- Hometown (Owner/Breeder Location): Chapel Hill, North Carolina
- Handler: Michael Scott
- Breeding Program: Andi Pugs
- Breeders: Joy Barbieri and Movall
- Key Achievements:
- Best in Show, 2024 National Dog Show
- Toy Group Winner, 2024 National Dog Show
- Best of Breed, 2023 National Dog Show
- AKC Grand Champion Gold (GCHG title)
The Historic 2024 National Dog Show Victory
Vito's win at the 2024 National Dog Show, held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, was a moment of pure spectacle and emotional triumph. The competition featured approximately 1,940 dogs, representing 205 different breeds and varieties, all vying for the coveted Best in Show award.
The Road to Best in Show: Winning the Toy Group
The first major hurdle for Vito was dominating the competitive Toy Group. This group is known for its charismatic and often flashy competitors, but Vito's exceptional conformation and joyful demeanor set him apart. His handler, the experienced Michael Scott, highlighted Vito's perfect structure. Scott described the Pug as having a "beautiful head and expression," being a "very compact dog," and possessing "wonderful movement"—all critical components of the Pug breed standard.
Vito's victory in the Toy Group earned him a spot in the final Best in Show ring, where he would compete against the six other Group Winners. This achievement alone was a significant feat for the breed, but the best was yet to come.
The Final Seven: Best in Show Contenders
The final ring is where the ultimate judgment takes place, pitting the top dog from each of the seven groups against each other. Vito, the representative of the Toy Group, faced off against an impressive lineup of champions.
The other 2024 National Dog Show Group Winners included:
- Herding Group Winner: Rupert the Berger Picard
- Hound Group Winner: The Zit the Ibizan Hound
- Working Group Winner: Monty the Giant Schnauzer
- Sporting Group Winner: (Not listed in search results, but a required group)
- Non-Sporting Group Winner: (Not listed in search results, but a required group)
- Terrier Group Winner: (Not listed in search results, but a required group)
Despite the formidable competition from larger, more athletic breeds, Vito’s consistent performance and adherence to the breed standard ultimately impressed the judge. When the announcement was made, Vito became the first Pug in the show’s modern history to be crowned Best in Show, securing a $20,000 grand prize for his team.
Why Vito’s Win is a Monument to the Pug Breed Standard
Vito’s win is a powerful validation of the official Pug breed standard, which calls for a "square-proportioned, compact and of a cobby build." His success counters the misconception that show dogs must always be sleek, tall, or possess a high-flying gait. Instead, Vito demonstrated that perfection can be found in a dog described as "multum in parvo" (much in little), the traditional motto of the Pug breed.
The Role of Handler Michael Scott
Vito's victory is also a testament to the skill and dedication of his handler, Michael Scott. Scott, who hails from Chesapeake City, Maryland, is a seasoned professional in the dog show circuit. This was not his first taste of Best in Show glory; he previously won the National Dog Show in 2008 with a Pointer named Holly. Scott's ability to showcase Vito's best features—his dark, expressive eyes, his tightly curled tail, and his confident, rolling gait—was instrumental in securing the win. His previous experience with a completely different breed (a Sporting dog) highlights his versatility and deep understanding of canine conformation and presentation.
The Breeders: Andi Pugs
The foundation for Vito’s success lies with his breeders, Joy Barbieri and Movall of Andi Pugs. Their dedication to breeding Pugs that not only meet the AKC standard but also possess the required stable and even-tempered personality has paid off handsomely. The Andi Pugs program was recognized in the same year as Vito's win, being named the 2024 AKC Toy Group Breeders of the Year, further solidifying their reputation as a top kennel.
Vito the Pug, GCHG Andi In Cahoots, has transcended the typical dog show narrative. He is now the face of a historic movement, proving that even the most ancient and unique breeds can reach the pinnacle of the competitive canine world. His win is a celebration of breed integrity, expert handling, and the undeniable charm of the compact, lovable Pug.
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