Ross County Fairgrounds — Dogs run, jump, spin, balance, and just about fly, multiple times a day in a free performance at the fair.
“Performance Dogs of Ohio” offer a small canine olympics in a little performance ground next to the Small Animal Arena, where the Antique Tractors used to be (see my story from their new location).
I spoke with Ashleigh, the head trainer, and Ariel, one of owners of the troupe, after their Thursday afternoon show. One of the dogs that performed is “Jackal” – a Ross County native who was rescued with only 24 hours left. As demonstrated in the show, “he is now one of the best free-style flying disk dogs in the nation.”
They also give advice in their show on how to deal with high-energy dogs: Mental stimulation is key. They say five minutes of training or practice can make up for two hours of simple activity like frisbee catching.
For training, they recommend “The Big Book of Tricks for the Best Dog Ever.” Their parting advice is to have fun with your dog and bond with it.
Hear from Ashleigh and Ariel in their own words (and Jackal, with no barks) in the below interview video. Also watch my selection from their 45-minute show, culminating with Jackal’s performance.
Find their three performances on Saturday, the final day of the fair, in the schedule of events. Find their three performances on Saturday, the final day of the fair, in the schedule of events. They then continue touring through Ohio: next at Maumee Summer Fair, then Cleveland, Marion, Coshocton, Pataskala, Hilliard, and Van Wert, through August.
Performance Dogs of Ohio has a website, Facebook page, X / Twitter account, YouTube page, and Instagram account.
