07/17/2026
Whether you're a Vandal fan, student, parent or faculty/staff member, there's one thing that we can probably all agree on: the Vandal Dog is iconic. 🌭 Haven't experienced it for yourself? Let's talk about it.
The Vandal Dog is Vandal Brand Meats' version of the hot dog and it's made right here on campus. You can purchase it for yourself — or sometimes find them at campus events — but the most iconic place you'll find them is at athletic events. From basketball to football, you'll be sure to see them in concessions and most likely throughout tailgates. Oftentimes you'll see the Vandal Smoked Sausage offered in concessions alongside the Vandal Dog.
Vandal Brand Meats offers more than these two products, however. It is a full-service, on-campus, butcher shop focused on preparing students for careers in the meat industry. You can work at Vandal Brand Meats as an undergraduate or graduate student. also has classes that use the space for labs. James Nasados is the manager, and Talia Holtmeyer and Ryan Nelson serve as assistant managers. Committed to the community, you'll also see Vandal Brand Meats offering tours, hosting youth competitions and providing meat for events.
Although Vandal Brand Meats and the Vandal Dog have been longstanding traditions, one big thing has changed over the last year: they relocated to the newly built Meat Science and Innovation Center Honoring Ron Richard. Be sure to check out the new building and purchase some Vandal Dogs during their retail hours on Thursday and Friday from noon to 5:00 p.m.
Oh, and happy belated National Hot Dog Day to anyone who celebrated!
University of Idaho
