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. The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF), with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare, recognized Max as the winner, from among nearly 100 contenders.
Max’s primary role is to herd beef cattle on the Enns’ farm. His assistance is invaluable for John, who is disabled and uses a mobility scooter. Moving “momma cows” and their growing calves from pasture to pasture so they have access to nutritious, fresh grass is a recurring chore for John and Max.
“I can’t image doing this without Max,” John said. “Max is not only a working dog, he’s great with the family.”
After a long day of herding boisterous cattle on mostly hilly terrain, Max often accompanies John and Charla to pick daughter Brynley up from school. Balancing farming with a disability and family life while navigating today’s challenging farm economy would test anyone. But John remains undeterred. “Together, we make things work,” he said.
Goose, owned by Kentucky Farm Bureau member Lindie Huffman, was named People’s Choice Pup.
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.
“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.”
Purina donated prizes for the contest again this year, which included $5,000 in prize money, a trophy plate, a year’s supply of Pro-Plan dog food and other Purina products for Max. The People’s Choice Pup, Goose, receives a trophy plate, Purina products and a $2,500 cash prize. Nestle has been helping dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives through scientifically based nutritional innovations for 130 years.
As part of the Farm Dog of the Year program, AFBF will once again donate $1,500 to P.H.A.R.M. Dog USA, which trains and places farm dogs with farmers living with physical, cognitive or illness-related disabilities. The donation will be made in honor of Max and Goose.