What’s a farmer without a faithful canine sidekick? If Prairie Farmer’s tradition of featuring favorite farm dogs is any indication, he or she would be a lonely one — because Illinois farmers love their dogs. And they have some pretty incredible dogs.

What about you? Is your farm dog tops? Make sure your dog gets his or her day by nominating them for the 2018 Favorite Farm Dog Contest. To enter your dog, use the app below to submit your favorite photo and an essay sharing your dog’s best stories — and exactly why he or she should be Prairie Farmer’s 2018 Favorite Farm Dog. Please limit essays to 300 words.

In your essay, please include your dog’s name, breed, age and what makes them the perfect canine candidate. Also include your name, address and phone number. Entries are due March 26.

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Prizes for you
The winning dog’s owner will receive a complete photo shoot of their dog on the farm, on the job, and with and without family members, plus a 16-by-20-inch Modern Metals wall art featuring their favorite farm dog photo, complete with the winning credentials. In addition, the first-place farm dog will receive $100; second place will win $75; and third place will receive $50.

And don’t forget the real prize: neighborhood glory for your four-legged friend.

Last year, Colby, a 4-year-old Australian shepherd from Rosamond, Ill., won first prize for his ability to herd cattle as easily as he snuggles poults — a calm and gentle soul who’s eager to please and quick to obey. He also sports handkerchiefs for both work and dress.

Owners Missy and Dustin Cothern entered Colby, and Dustin says he’s sure about one thing in this life: his dog.

“They say you only get one good dog in life, and I believe it. That’s Colby for us,” he says. Colby works hard on their farm, where they raise Texas longhorn cattle, Hereford hogs, chickens, turkeys, geese, goats and a few horses.

COVER DOG: Colby spends a lot of time with the family’s longhorn cattle. According to his owner, Dustin Cothern, “Never have we seen such concern and care for babies but also aggression and precision with the adult hogs and cattle.”

In 2016, Max, a 4-year-old border collie-terrier mix from Elizabeth, Ill., won the contest. Max’s owners, Sierra Downing and Randy Haas, wrote, “Max is the definition of farm dog, runs free all day, and is always the first to load himself in the truck, tractor, four-wheeler, kayak or whatever you may be taking that day.”

And like a lot of farm dogs, Max is pretty much one of the family. “We know many people think of their pets as people, but we’re pretty sure Max is one-third dog, one-third cat and one-third human. Some people say you only get one good dog in your life, and for us, that is Max,” Downing said.

In 2015, Dixie the Australian shepherd took top honors for her ability to help manage a 150-head cow herd. Dixie’s owners, Matt and Liz Hulsizer, went straight for top recommendations in finding their perfect farm dog, looking up the 2009 winning farm dog, Smokey, and his owner, Tony Tadie.

Tadie’s advice: “Don’t pick a dog; let the dog pick you.” Timeless wisdom.

So whether your dog is your companion, protector, family or best friend, be sure to send your favorite stories and best photo to Prairie Farmer by March 26. Send digital entries using the form above. Applicants must be 14 or older. All photos become property of Prairie Farmer and will not be returned.