No doubt about it, Americans love their collegiate sports teams — and behind each loyally-followed club is a beloved mascot. In most cases, this is really just a dangerously caffeinated yell leader dressed in costume. But some, like the University of Georgia, use a real live animal (in their case, Uga) who’s there on the sidelines along with the players and coach. So how many college dog mascots are there in Division 1 athletics? The Bulldog is far and away the most popular, but we found a few surprises in the mix. No sign of any professional sports teams with dogs as their mascots…yet.
Boston University Terriers: Boston University is located in Boston, Massachusetts; the official mascot is Rhett the Boston Terrier, named after Rhett Butler from Gone With the Wind; the school colors are scarlet and white.
Butler Bulldogs: Butler University is located in Indianapolis, Indiana; live mascot is named Butler Blue II; the school colors are blue and white.
Drake Bulldogs: Drake University is located in Des Moines, Iowa; mascot’s name is Spike; the school colors are blue and white.
Fresno State Bulldogs: California State University, Fresno is located in Fresno, California; the mascot’s names are Time Out and Victor E.; the school colors are cardinal and blue.
Georgetown University Hoyas: Georgetown University is located in Washington, D.C.; mascot’s name is Jack the Bulldog; the school colors are blue and gray.
Gonzaga Bulldogs: Gonzaga University is located in Spokane, Washington; mascot’s name is Spike the Bulldog; the school colors are white and blue.
Mississippi State Bulldogs: Mississippi State University of Agriculture and Applied Science (Mississippi State University) is located in Starkville, Mississippi; mascot’s name is Bully; the school colors are maroon and white.
Southern Illinois Salukis: Southern Illinois University Carbondale is located in Carbondale, Illinois; the school colors are maroon and white.
University of Georgia Bulldogs: College is located in Athens, Georgia; mascots are named Uga and Hairy Dawg; the school colors are red and black.
Yale Bulldogs: Yale University is located in New Haven, Connecticut; mascot is named Handsome Dan; the school colors are Yale Blue and white.
Honorable Mention (but not Division 1)
John Jay College Bloodhounds: John Jay College of Criminal Justice is located in New York City, New York; the school colors are blue and gold.
University at Albany Great Danes: State University of New York at Albany is located in Albany, East Greenbush, and Guilderland, New York; mascots are named Damien and Lil’ D; the school colors are purple and gold.
University of Indianapolis Greyhounds: College is located in Indianapolis, Indiana; the school colors are crimson and grey.
Did we miss any? Post a comment and add to our list. And while you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our list of great sporty dog names.
