Recognizing the vital role that four-legged friends often play on family farms and ranches, Farm Bureau launched the Farm Dog of the Year contest several years ago – now a popular feature of the American Farm Bureau Convention.
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. AFBF, with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare, recognized Max as the winner, from among nearly 100 contenders. Max was selected by a team of judges.
Members of the public voted online to select the People’s Choice Pup. Goose, owned by Kentucky Farm Bureau member Lindie Huffman, was named People’s Choice Pup. Two other dogs were finalists for People’s Choice Pup: 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.”