Recognizing the vital role that four-legged companions play on family farms and ranches, the Farm Dog of the Year contest has grown into a popular and anticipated feature of the annual American Farm Bureau Convention. Launched several years ago, the contest highlights how farm dogs contribute not only to daily operations, but also to the heart of rural life.
The winner of the 2026 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year award is Max, a 4-year-old Border Collie owned by Oklahoma Farm Bureau members John, Charla and Brynley Enns. American Farm Bureau Federation, with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare, recognized Max as the top honoree from nearly 100 entries nationwide. Max was selected by a panel of judges who reviewed nominations detailing each dog’s impact on the farm and family they serve.
In addition to the judges’ selection, members of the public voted online to determine the People’s Choice Pup. Goose, owned by Kentucky Farm Bureau member Lindie Huffman, earned that title. Two additional dogs were named finalists for the People’s Choice award: Ruby Hope, owned by Indiana member Travis Burkhart, and Bubbles, owned by Montana member Elena Hovland-Stuker.
“Farm dogs are more than workers, they’re family,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “While they assist with chores, they also offer the companionship that makes tough days a little easier. It has been a pleasure to partner with Purina for the eighth annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, showcasing the important role dogs play in everyday farm life.”
Farm dogs across the country take on a wide range of responsibilities, from rounding up livestock and chasing off predators to opening gates, fetching tools or buckets, and greeting visitors. The Farm Dog of the Year contest celebrates the many ways dogs support farmers and ranchers, often performing tasks that are essential to keeping operations running smoothly.
Max’s primary responsibility on the Enns’ farm is herding beef cattle, a role that is especially critical given John’s physical limitations. John is disabled and uses a mobility scooter, making Max’s assistance indispensable. Together, they move “momma cows” and their growing calves from pasture to pasture, ensuring the herd has access to nutritious, fresh grass throughout the grazing season.
“I can’t image doing this without Max,” John said. “Max is not only a working dog, he’s great with the family.” After long days spent herding energetic cattle across mostly hilly terrain, Max often joins John and Charla on the drive to pick up their daughter Brynley from school. Balancing farming, family life and a disability in today’s challenging farm economy is no small task, but John remains determined. “Together, we make things work,” he said.
Purina, one of the nation’s leading pet care companies, donated prizes for the contest again this year. The Farm Dog of the Year award includes $5,000 in prize money, a trophy plate, a year’s supply of Pro Plan dog food and additional Purina products for Max. The People’s Choice Pup, Goose, receives a trophy plate, Purina products and a $2,500 cash prize. Nestlé has been helping dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives through scientifically based nutritional innovations for 130 years.
“Purina is proud to continue partnering with the American Farm Bureau to celebrate the essential role of farm dogs like Max,” said Jack Scott, vice president of sustainable sourcing at Nestlé Purina PetCare. “These remarkable dogs are invaluable partners in agriculture, and through the Farm Dog of the Year award, we’re honored to recognize their contributions and the bond that makes pets and people better together.”
