Farm Bureau Opens 2027 Farm Dog Awards Nominations

By Blake Jackson

Farmers and ranchers are encouraged to submit nominations for the 2027 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year contest, a long-running program that recognizes the essential role farm dogs play in agriculture.

Now in its ninth year, the contest is supported by Nestlé Purina PetCare and highlights the loyalty, skills, and companionship farm dogs provide to farming and ranching families.

The grand prize winner will receive $5,000 in cash along with a year’s supply of Purina Pro Plan dog food. In addition, the winner will be honored at the Farm Dog of the Year award ceremony during the American Farm Bureau Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, in January 2027.

The winning dog will also be featured in a professionally produced video showcasing its life on the farm. The 2026 winner, Max, has already been highlighted as part of the program’s ongoing storytelling efforts.

“Farm dogs are often important partners in our daily work as well as wonderful companions for farm families,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “As we saw with our 2026 winner, Max, these loyal companions go above and beyond to look after both the land and the farm families they work alongside.”

Farm dogs contribute in many ways, including herding livestock, deterring predators, opening gates, retrieving tools, and greeting visitors. Beyond their working roles, they also offer emotional support to farm families.

Research from a collaboration between Mayo Clinic and Purina shows that spending time with pets can reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being, including lower heart rates and increased positive feelings after just 20 minutes of interaction.

“We are honored to continue supporting the hard-working, devoted farm dogs featured in the American Farm Bureau’s Farm Dog of the Year contest,” said Jack Scott, vice president of sustainable sourcing at Purina.

“Purina proudly uses nutritious ingredients sourced from American farms to make our pet food, and we remain committed to supporting American farmers who have fed generations of people and pets.”

Eligible entries must come from Farm Bureau members and include written responses, photos, and optional video clips. Submissions are due by July 11, 2026. Public voting for the People’s Choice Pup will also return, with a $2,500 prize awarded.

Photo Credit: plus-photo