The Western Bulldogs will field a stand-alone VFL team in 2014, with the Footscray Bulldogs to play their home matches at Whitten Oval.
Victoria University is the club's major partner and also the naming rights partner of the Whitten Oval in what is a multi-million dollar partnership.
Western Bulldogs chief executive Simon Garlick described the partnership as a 'significant' one and was delighted the club are playing in their 'heartland'.
"Today's announcement is one that proudly embraces our heritage while equally heralding the brightest of futures with the club signing a significant partnership with leading sport university, Victoria University," he said.
"The partnership makes perfect sense. It provides the Dogs with the unique opportunity to tap into world class sports science and elite sport best practice - right here in our heartland."
In their statement, the Bulldogs said it was 'a unique knowledge exchange relationship', with the club providing VU students education and training opportunities.
The name was 'overwhelmingly the most popular choice' among the 3,000 members who voted.
Garlick said a stand-alone VFL side was something the Bulldogs had been aiming for, ending their partnership with Williamstown.
"Having our own VFL team is consistent with our focus and commitment to the development of our young exciting player," Garlick said.
"Our aim is to build and develop our team from within and to ultimately support the delivery of sustainable success, both on and off the field."