Mid-Ohio Owner Handler Association

02/05/2025

Last night was our last Beginning Novice Obedience class. Some new training techniques popular on the West Coast were introduced the first 4 weeks. Our emphasis during the second 4 weeks was establishing an environment where each owner could be the best possible trainer for their own dog. The assessment by individual owners of the training needs of their canines resulted in weekly improvement. We ended the final class with some new skills from Rally Master signs demonstrating the dogs' enthusiasm for advanced training. But most important - we had fun!

22/04/2025

We only have 2 Conformation classes remaining at the Westerville JC Pool Building before we need to vacate for the summer swim season. If you need 1 or 2 drop-in classes please join us for $15/session. 4/24 and 5/1 at 7 PM. Details appear on our website at

Mid Ohio Owner Handler Association

17/04/2025

Have you heard about the new drug in clinical trials which hopes to increase the longevity and quality of life for dogs? If you visit their website, you'll learn that the drug(s) being tested and exact mechanism of action are still "confidential". But the emphasis seems to be lowering insulin-like growth factor 1.

Loyal is a clinical-stage veterinary medicine company working on giving dogs longer, healthier lives.

15/04/2025

The new point schedule effective May 12 is now posted on AKC.org. For some of you looking for majors, the newest schedule might be a big relief. For others, it's a reminder just how difficult it is to find any points for your breed. Your thoughts?https://s3.amazonaws.com/cdn-origin-etr.akc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/08134526/Schedule-Points-DIV5-2025.pdf

14/04/2025

Great walk yesterday!

12/04/2025

The journey of life is always better when shared with a dog. Whether you’re walking through a busy city street or strolling along a quiet beach, there’s something about the presence of a dog that makes every step more meaningful. As this dog gazes out at the horizon, it’s clear that they understand the beauty of the world around them. They know that each moment is precious, and every adventure is worth taking. Their sense of wonder and curiosity inspire us to slow down and appreciate the simple joys in life.

Dogs remind us that life is about more than just crossing off tasks or achieving goals. It’s about savoring the moments, feeling the warmth of the sun, and taking in the sights and sounds of the world. When we walk through life with a dog by our side, we’re reminded to live with joy, to be present, and to cherish the time we have together. Dogs truly make every journey worth it, turning every day into a new adventure filled with love and companionship.🌅🐾

11/04/2025

09/04/2025

Finally! Some decent weather on the weekend! We'll have a FIT DOG walk this Sunday, 4/13 at 5 PM at Red Trabue Nature Reserve in Dublin. The address is 6500 Post Rd, Dublin, OH 43016. We'll meet in the parking lot.

01/04/2025

Even in today's environment of selective breeding for "high drive" dogs there are definitely times when stillness is critical. Examples are stays and maintaining positions in FIT DOG exercises. At this week's Beginning Novice class we will introduce
Reverse Luring as a way to achieve stillness in a dog when in any position. Applications are numerous and can extend to the conformation ring.

28/03/2025

Last night was only Week 3 of our Beginning Novice class. We are already seeing greatly improved attention from the dogs. The trainers are demonstrating impressive abilities to assess where their dogs are in the training journey and how to best tailor their training techniques. And most important - humans and canines are having fun!

21/03/2025

At our Beginning Novice class last night we introduced using disks as a fun way to improve the dog's heel position. Disks will range in dimensions depending on the dog's size from a small foam pad (pictured below) to a feed bowl. Dogs who already have a strong "front end target" from FIT DOG training will almost immediately respond to this training method. Many dogs find precision training more enjoyable if they can teach themselves.

16/03/2025

Our FIT DOG walk today, 3/16 is cancelled. The previous forecast of rain ending in the AM is now for severe storms from 2-5 PM.
⛈ We hope to reschedule soon!