McGruff the Crime Dog® Costume Usage

Law enforcement agencies, criminal justice agencies, and state crime prevention associations have general approval to purchase and wear the McGruff costume, provided that the request for purchase is made on official letterhead. The costume may be used to help promote any nonprofit, drug-free crime prevention event that is sponsored by, or conducted in conjunction with, a law enforcement or criminal justice agency.

The McGruff costume is specifically designed for prevention education use in the areas of crime, violence, and/or substance abuse. To ensure quality control, the costume is produced exclusively by Robotronics.

A public appearance in a McGruff costume requires responsible behavior by the costume wearer and those conducting the event. NCPC has developed guidelines for use of the McGruff costume:

Who can wear the McGruff costume?
Unless an exception is approved by NCPC in writing, only law enforcement personnel or crime prevention practitioners, as specifically approved by NCPC, may wear the McGruff costume. To request approval for this kind of an exception, contact NCPC.

What should the McGruff portrayer look like?

To maintain consistency of the image, the wearer should be 5’7″ to 6’3″ in height, should appear reasonably fit and of normal build, and should not appear obviously female when in costume.

Do I have to wear the pants provided with the McGruff costume?

A McGruff costume must be worn in its entirety, including coat, head, gloves, pants, and gum-soled shoes. No additional visible clothing or headgear may be worn.

Is McGruff an all-weather icon?

Wearers of the costumes must use common sense. Rain or snow may damage the costumes, and extreme heat may be hazardous to the well-being of the wearer. No one should be allowed to wear the costume for more than 20 minutes in temperatures above 85 degrees Fahrenheit unless they are wearing the special “cool-down” vest that is available from Robotronics. Portrayers may take turns wearing the costume in such conditions, taking care to change out of sight.

For more information on how to use and how not to use the McGruff costume, email info@ncpc.org.