Ohio Terrier Siblings to Compete in 2026 Puppy Bowl

Derby and Summer, rescued pups from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, will represent the Buckeye State in the annual pre-Super Bowl event.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Two terrier mix siblings from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, Derby and Summer, will compete in the 2026 Puppy Bowl, representing Ohio. The puppies were part of a litter discovered abandoned along a roadside and brought to a local shelter. They have since been adopted and will play on rival teams, Team Ruff and Team Fluff, in the annual pre-Super Bowl event.

Why it matters

The Puppy Bowl gives shelter animals a national platform and reminds people that adopting a pet can be life-changing. This marks the fourth straight year the Humane Society of Greater Dayton has sent puppies to the event, showcasing the shelter's commitment to finding loving homes for rescue animals.

The details

Derby, now named Winnie, is a black and gray terrier mix playing for Team Ruff. Since her adoption, Winnie shares her home with two dog siblings, a basset hound named Willy and a cocker spaniel named Stewie. Summer, now named Stormy, is a cream and black terrier mix playing for Team Fluff. Since her adoption, Stormy has gained a dog sister, a Chihuahua named Trixie.

  • The 2026 Puppy Bowl will take place before the 2026 Super Bowl.

The players

Humane Society of Greater Dayton

A local animal shelter in Dayton, Ohio that has sent puppies to the Puppy Bowl for the past four years.

Winnie (formerly Derby)

A black and gray terrier mix playing for Team Ruff in the 2026 Puppy Bowl.

Stormy (formerly Summer)

A cream and black terrier mix playing for Team Fluff in the 2026 Puppy Bowl.

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What they’re saying

“This is one of our favorite traditions, and we're proud to represent Dayton and Ohio once again. Puppy Bowl gives shelter animals a national platform and reminds people everywhere that adopting a pet can truly be a game-changer.”

— Brian Weltge, President and CEO of the Humane Society of Greater Dayton (cincinnati.com)

The takeaway

The participation of rescue puppies from the Humane Society of Greater Dayton in the 2026 Puppy Bowl highlights the important role that animal shelters play in finding loving homes for abandoned and surrendered pets. This annual event helps promote pet adoption and showcases the unique personalities of shelter animals.