Arizona Farm Bureau members are invited to submit nominations for the 2027 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year contest, which offers cash prizes and national bragging rights. This marks the ninth year of the popular national contest, sponsored by the American Farm Bureau Federation and supported by Nestlé Purina PetCare. The program celebrates the vital roles farm dogs play in supporting farmers and ranchers across the country.

Arizona Farm Bureau has had two submissions in past contests, with one earning a spot in the top 10 for the People’s Choice Pup category. This strong showing highlights the talent and dedication of Arizona’s farm and ranch dogs and their owners.

The grand prize winner – named Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year – will receive a year’s supply of Purina Pro Plan dog food and $5,000 in cash. The winner will be honored at a special 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.

Since its launch, the contest has created a meaningful connection between America’s farms and ranches and pet-loving audiences who vote online for their favorite farm dogs.

“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 and ranch families they work alongside.”

Farm dogs perform a wide variety of essential tasks, including rounding up livestock, chasing off predators, opening gates, fetching tools or buckets, and greeting visitors.

Scientific research conducted in collaboration between Mayo Clinic and Purina shows that interacting with pets provides measurable health benefits. For example, spending just 20 minutes with a dog can increase hormones that help moderate stress, lower heart rate, and boost overall sense of well-being.

Desired attributes for the Farm Dog of the Year include helpfulness to the farmer and rancher and family, playfulness, and obedience.

To enter, farm and ranch dog owners must be Farm Bureau members. Not a member yet, but want to nominate your dog? Visit https://www.azfb.org/join to learn how to become a member.

Eligibility guidelines and submission requirements are available here. Nominations, which include written responses to questions, at least one still photo, and an optional video clip, must be received by July 11, 2026.

The People’s Choice Pup category returns for 2027. Profiles of selected nominated dogs will be shared on social media beginning in September, with the public invited to vote. The winner receives bragging rights and a $2,500 cash prize from Purina.