Farmers are Invited to Enter 2027 Farm Dog Contest
Nominations are now open for the 2027 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year contest, giving farmers and ranchers across the U.S. an opportunity to spotlight the hardworking dogs that support daily agricultural operations. Nomination deadline is July 11, 2026.
Sponsored by Nestlé Purina PetCare, the annual contest celebrates farm dogs that contribute to livestock care, farm management, and family life on agricultural operations.
Entering its ninth year, the program continues to recognize the unique bond between farm families and their dogs. The grand prize winner will receive $5,000 and a one-year supply of Purina Pro Plan dog food.
The winning dog will also be honored during the American Farm Bureau Convention scheduled for January 2027 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
In addition to the awards ceremony, the top dog will be featured in a professionally produced video that highlights its daily responsibilities and life on the farm. The current titleholder, Max, has already been showcased through the program’s storytelling campaign.
“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 serve many purposes on farms and ranches, including herding livestock, protecting animals from predators, retrieving supplies, opening gates, and welcoming guests. Many also provide emotional support to farm families during stressful times.
Research conducted through a partnership between Mayo Clinic and Purina found that spending just 20 minutes with pets may help lower stress, reduce heart rates, and improve emotional well-being.
“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.
Applications must be submitted by July 11, 2026, and include photos, written responses, and optional videos from eligible Farm Bureau members.
To nominate a dog, visit https://www.fb.org/initiative/farm-dog-of-the-year.
Photo Credit: E-plus-photo