Besides the parade and a gigantic turkey meal, Thanksgiving also has another tradition of the National Dog Show. The contest is held annually on the holiday in which thousands of dogs participate to become the best dogs in the nation. This year, VIto the Pug won hearts as well as the winner's title.
The contest was held on November 28 in which the two-year-old pup became the first one of his breed to win the top honor. In the contest, more than 1,900 dogs from over 200 breeds participated.
Vito, who is from Chapel Hill, N.C., came with his handler Michael Scott, who was confident that his furry friend would win the honor. At the time of announcing the winner, Vito seemingly was thriller and his expressions allegedly signified that he was aware of his victory.
According to NBC News, Vito's co-owner said that she was proud of him. George Milutinovich, one of the judges on the show, also said that the pug's "compact, features, movement" wowed them.
"Never seen him before. Wow. Just wow," he added.
Scott also mentioned that Vito has a "beautiful head and expression" along with a "great outline."
On the National Dog Show, Vito competed with several dogs of various breeds. His top contenders were Houston the Clumber Spaniel, Zit the Ibizan hound, Monty the giant schnauzer, Rupert the Berger Picard, Verde the Welsh terrier, and JJ the Lhasa Apso.
For the unversed, the dog show was founded in 1897, however, it became an annual event after more than five decades. Since 2002, it has been televised on Thanksgiving Day. The show has an estimated viewership of about 20 million.
Netizens react to Vito's victory on National Dog Show 2024
Vito went viral on the internet as soon as he was crowned the best dog in America on the National Dog Show. Netizens are seemingly moved by the pug's heart-melting eyes and innocent look. They are widely reacting to his victory and many also revealed how they were cheering for him.
An X user wrote,
"I love the look on his face he is so pleasantly surprised."
Another one penned,
"He’s a beauty! And pugs are the best dogs Evaah!"
Trending
"OMG that face is just so cute," penned a third one.
Last year, Stache the Sealyham terrier won the show title and was cheered by many. He scripted history for being the first of his breed to win the show.
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