The 5 Biggest Shocks And Triumphs From The 2024 National Dog Show On Thanksgiving

The 2024 National Dog Show Presented by Purina delivered an unprecedented level of excitement and a truly historic winner, solidifying its place as a cherished Thanksgiving Day tradition for millions of families across the United States. This year’s competition, which aired on Thursday, November 28, 2024, immediately following the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, was not just a display of canine beauty and conformation; it was a showcase of heartwarming stories, fierce competition, and a long-awaited victory for one of the most beloved breeds in the world. The results from the 23rd annual event have generated buzz among dog lovers and casual viewers alike, proving that the road to Best in Show is always full of surprises.

The annual event, held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania, saw nearly 2,000 dogs from over 200 breeds competing for the coveted title. From the moment the seven Group Winners were announced to the final, tense moments of the Best in Show selection, the 2024 show offered a fresh perspective on the world of competitive dog shows, headlined by a champion who rewrote the history books.

The Historic Best in Show Winner and Full 2024 Group Results

The biggest story of the 2024 National Dog Show was the crowning of a champion that had never before taken the top honor. The final decision by the judge was a moment of pure shock and elation for the dog's handlers and fans, marking a significant milestone in the event's history.

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Best in Show Winner: Vito the Pug

For the first time in the 23-year history of the National Dog Show, a Pug took home the prestigious Best in Show title. The two-year-old Toy Group winner, named Vito the Pug, charmed the judges and spectators with his expressive face, confident gait, and undeniable charisma. Vito, who hails from North Carolina, beat out approximately 1,940 dogs representing 205 different breeds to claim the honor. This victory was a massive win for the entire Toy Group, which often sees its smaller competitors overlooked for the larger, more glamorous breeds.

Vito the Pug Biography & Profile:

• Full Name: Vito
• Breed: Pug
• Age: 2 years old (at time of win)
• Weight: Approximately 18 pounds
• Hometown/Origin: North Carolina
• Handler: Michael Scott
• Group Win: Toy Group
• Historic Significance: First Pug to ever win Best in Show at the National Dog Show Presented by Purina.

The Elite Seven: 2024 National Dog Show Group Winners

To compete for Best in Show, Vito first had to win the Toy Group. He then faced six other exceptional Group Winners, each representing the pinnacle of their respective breed standards. The competition was incredibly fierce, featuring a mix of fan favorites and unique contenders. The full list of 2024 Group Winners included:

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• Toy Group Winner: Vito the Pug (Best in Show Winner)
• Non-Sporting Group Winner: JJ the Lhasa Apso
• Hound Group Winner: The Zit the Ibizan Hound
• Herding Group Winner: Rupert the Berger Picard
• Sporting Group Winner: (To be confirmed, typically a Spaniel or Retriever)
• Working Group Winner: (To be confirmed, typically a Mastiff or Boxer)
• Terrier Group Winner: (To be confirmed, typically a Fox Terrier or Scottie)

The presence of breeds like the Lhasa Apso and the Ibizan Hound in the final ring highlights the diversity of the canine world and the incredible talent showcased at the National Dog Show.

The 5 Biggest Moments and Key Takeaways from the 2024 Show

Beyond the Best in Show winner, the 2024 National Dog Show was packed with memorable moments, from a historic breed debut to the return of beloved hosts.

1. The Pug’s Historic Upset Victory

Vito's win was not just a feel-good story; it was a major upset. Historically, the Best in Show title has often gone to dogs from the Terrier, Sporting, or Working groups. A Pug, a breed known more for its comical personality and lap-dog status than its athletic prowess, breaking this trend is a massive moment for breed enthusiasts. Vito’s handler, Michael Scott, celebrated the victory, noting the dog's exceptional conformation and joyful demeanor. The win proves that pure charm and breed perfection can triumph over size and conventional expectation.

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2. The Debut of the Lancashire Heeler

A key feature of the 2024 National Dog Show was the introduction of a brand-new breed to the competition: the Lancashire Heeler. This small, sturdy, and affectionate herding dog officially joined the American Kennel Club (AKC) roster on January 1, 2024, making the Thanksgiving Day show its first major televised event. The Lancashire Heeler, a breed with roots in the United Kingdom dating back centuries, captivated audiences with its unique look—often described as a miniature black-and-tan herding dog. Its inclusion brought the total number of competing breeds to an impressive 205, adding a fresh face to the Herding Group competition.

3. The Return of Beloved Hosts John O'Hurley and David Frei

No National Dog Show is complete without the familiar voices and expert commentary of the hosting duo. John O'Hurley (best known for his role on Seinfeld) and veteran dog show analyst David Frei returned to the broadcast booth for the 2024 event. Their chemistry, combined with O'Hurley’s witty anecdotes and Frei’s deep knowledge of breed standards, provided the perfect soundtrack to the day's competition. Their consistent presence is a hallmark of the show, providing continuity and expert insight that helps casual viewers understand the nuances of the judging process.

4. The Rise of the Lesser-Known Contenders

While Vito stole the show, the other Group Winners highlighted the excellence of less-common breeds. The Ibizan Hound ("The Zit") from the Hound Group and the Berger Picard ("Rupert") from the Herding Group made strong statements. The Ibizan Hound is a sleek, elegant sight hound, while the Berger Picard is a shaggy, loyal French herding dog. Their success in the group finals demonstrates that judges are focused on breed standard and performance, not just the popularity or flashiness of the entries. This diversity is crucial for maintaining the integrity and educational value of the show.

5. The Unwavering Thanksgiving Tradition

Ultimately, the 2024 National Dog Show reinforced its status as an indispensable part of the American Thanksgiving experience. Airing immediately after the Macy’s Parade, the two-hour broadcast on NBC and Peacock serves as the perfect post-feast, family-friendly entertainment. Presented by Purina, the event is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of the human-canine bond, drawing millions of viewers who tune in specifically for the tradition. The show's ability to unite families and spark conversations about different dog breeds is its greatest enduring triumph.

How to Watch the National Dog Show 2024 Replay and Future

If you missed the thrilling conclusion of the 2024 National Dog Show, you can still catch the replay. The full broadcast, which aired on Thursday, November 28, 2024, is available for streaming on Peacock, as well as the NBC Sports app and NBCSports.com.

The 2024 event, with its historic Pug winner and the debut of the Lancashire Heeler, has set a high bar for the years to come. Dog lovers are already looking forward to the 2025 National Dog Show, which will undoubtedly continue the tradition of celebrating the incredible variety and spirit of the world's most loyal companions.