WASHINGTON—Time is running out to showcase your outstanding canine’s farm contributions.
Farmers are invited to submit nominations for the 2026 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year Contest. Entries must be received by 11:59 p.m. on July 11.
The annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare, celebrates farm dogs and the numerous ways they support farmers and ranchers. Desired dog traits include helpfulness to a farmer and the farm family, playfulness and obedience.
“Farm dogs play an important role on the farm and hold a special place in our hearts,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “They show up every day without complaint and are eager to pitch in. Many go above and beyond in caring for their farm families.”
Farm dogs fulfill many important tasks on the farm—like rounding up livestock, chasing off predators, opening gates, fetching tools and greeting visitors.
As farming comes with many uncontrollable stressors, farm dogs also offer vital emotional support.
Research from a collaboration between Mayo Clinic and Purina indicates that interacting with pets can provide health benefits. After spending just 20 minutes with a dog, participants experienced a significant increase in levels of oxytocin, a hormone that plays a role in moderating stress. This also was associated with an increase in a self-reported sense of well-being, and a decrease in heart rate and pain.
“We are proud to continue supporting and celebrating hard-working and loving farm dogs through the American Farm Bureau’s Farm Dog of the Year contest,” said Jack Scott, vice president of sustainable sourcing at Purina.
A panel of judges selected by AFBF will select the Farm Dog of the Year. The grand prize winner will receive a $5,000 cash prize, a year’s supply of Purina Pro Plan dog food, a $500 travel stipend and two free adult registrations to attend the 2026 AFBF Convention in California, a trophy plate and a Purina products basket. The 2026 Farm Dog of the Year also will be featured in a professionally produced video, which will be shown at the convention.
Additionally, the public will be invited to vote online for their favorite dog in the People’s Choice Pup contest as part of the overall competition. The People’s Choice Pup winner will receive a $2,500 cash prize, a year’s supply of Purina Pro-Plan dog food, a $500 travel stipend and two free adult registrations to attend the 2026 AFBF Convention, a trophy plate and a Purina products basket.
Farm dog owners must be Farm Bureau members to enter their dogs in the competition. Visit vafb.com/membership-at-work/membership/join-now to become a Virginia Farm Bureau member.
-Virginia Farm Bureau
