Griff II

Live Mascot from July 1, 2020—May 8, 2026

Griff II, was born July 12, 2018 in Minnesota. He was introduced as the Drake University's second official live mascot on July 1, 2020, succeeding Griff I upon his retirement. Griff II served nearly six years as Drake University’s official live mascot before retiring on May 8, 2026, building on the legacy Griff I left behind.

Griff II embodies all the qualities of a Drake Bulldog. He is proud, smart, loyal, curious, friendly, gentle, stubborn, patient, happy, easy-going, and affectionate. He was a prominent figure in the Des Moines community—even earning the designation, “Des Moines’ hometown dog.” During his six-year tenure, Griff II launched his Halloween Story Time and visited more than 70 elementary classrooms in the Des Moines Public School district to promote literacy to young readers.

Griff II was a model representative and ambassador for Drake University. He served as a friendly, wrinkly face to prospective students visiting campus, spread joy to current Drake students and alumni, attended Drake athletics events and presidential debates, acted on stage with Drake Fine Arts, and supported the community through the Griff Gives Back campaign, which solicited donations of more than 180,000 pounds of pet food to families in need in its first 10 years.

A Well Earned Retirement

Griff II is currently enjoying his time in retirement, where his days of appearances and selfies have been replaced by naps on the couch.