Last Sunday, June 14, fifteen of Philly’s finest dogs entered a friendly competition for the Philadelphia Water Department’s Spokesdog cape, wagging their way before an enthusiastic crowd at the Philadelphia Brewing Company in East Kensington.

Proud owners spoke on behalf of their pups, and each contestant proved loyal to the clean water cause.

Gracie, a large dark gray dog with a friendly expression, lies facing the camera on a cobblestone patio in front of a Philadelphia Water Department bannerPWD’s new Spokesdog, Gracie, chills out after claiming her title

Judges had a hard time choosing just one dog among the well-behaved and very well-dressed group, and named two runners-up: Franki and Valla, who may serve as Spokesdog sidekicks.

A black dog with a white snout and a happy expression, a brown-and-white dog with slightly frizzy fur, and a large dark gray dog with a content expression hang out with their owners on a cobblestone patio in front of a table draped in a Philadelphia Water Department tablecloth Valla, Franki and Gracie, PWD’s 2026 Spokesdog court

Gracie stood out in the end for her gentle demeanor and her deep commitment to Philly’s rivers — not to mention her passionate support for all of Philadelphia’s sports teams.

She will appear at events with the Water Department throughout the year with her owner, Joe, a former plumber.

You can meet her at the annual Philly Fishing Fest, the Delaware River Fest, or one of our many other public events!

Check out the full 2026 Spokesdog photo album →

Want updates on Gracie’s activities and adventures?

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