A native Missourian, Doug Ross studied at the College of the Ozarks. He then worked as a staff artist at two printing companies in southwest Missouri. In 1968 he joined the staff of the University of Missouri-Columbia Extension/Agricultural Information Office as a Graphic Artist/Illustrator. With over 40 years of experience, Ross has done illustration, cartooning, graphic design, exhibit and display development and taught workshops on art/illustration techniques.

Ross won the 1983 Missouri Waterfowl Stamp Competition sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation. He was also runner-up in the 1983 Missouri Trout Stamp Competition.

Ross' work has appeared in Missouri Life, The Missouri Conservationist, Missouri Fins and Feathers magazines, as well as various state publications. Ross has also illustrated many University of Missouri Extension publications and developed numerous educational and promotional displays for the College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources and Cooperative Extension Programs.

Doug left the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2003 to start his own business, Ross Art and Graphic Design. Wildlife/animal art, illustration and commissioned paintings are part of his business interests and direction.