Farmers and ranchers can now submit nominations for the 2027 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year contest, an annual competition recognizing the role of working dogs in agriculture.
Now in its ninth year, the contest is supported by Nestlé Purina PetCare and highlights the contributions farm dogs make to daily operations and family life.
The grand prize winner will receive a year’s supply of Purina Pro Plan dog food and $5,000. The winning dog will also be recognized during an award ceremony at the American Farm Bureau Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, in January 2027, and featured in a professionally produced video.
American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall said farm dogs serve as both workers and companions on farms and ranches.
“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,” Duvall said.
Man’s best friend
Not only are they helpers on the farm; research from a collaboration between Mayo Clinic and Purina indicates interaction with pets may provide health benefits. Spending 20 minutes with a dog was associated with increased levels of a hormone linked to stress reduction, along with lower heart rate and improved self-reported well-being.
Jack Scott, vice president of sustainable sourcing at Purina, said the company continues to support the contest and the role of farm dogs. Desired traits for the award include helpfulness to the farmer and family, playfulness and obedience.
Applicants must be Farm Bureau members to enter. Nominations require written responses, at least one photo, and an optional video submission. Entries must be received by July 11.
The contest also includes the People’s Choice Pup competition, in which selected nominees are featured online and the public votes for a winner. That award carries a $2,500 cash prize. To submit an entry, visit www.fb.org/initiative/farm-dog-of-the-year.
Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].
