Fetch. Sit. Stay. Heel. What commands does your four-legged friend know? No matter how much training your furry friend has under their collar, we want to hear what makes them the best farm dog in the state. Enter your pup in the Prairie Farmer Favorite Farm Dog Contest.

For 18 years, editors and judges have weighed the qualifications and debated the merits of talented working dogs, terrific companion animals and guardians of the farm. We examine photos and read essays, reminded again and again that a good farm dog is truly a farm family’s best friend.

So don’t wait. Enter your canine pal in the 2018 Favorite Farm Dog Contest! To enter, 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. In your essay, please include your dog’s name, breed, age and what makes him or her the perfect canine candidate. Also include your name, address and phone number. Entries are due March 26.

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Prizes
The wining dog’s owner will receive a complete photo shoot of their four-legged hero 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 and winning credentials. In addition, the first-place farm dog will receive $100; second place will win $75; and third place will receive $50. And of course, the favorite farm dog winner will appear on the cover of Prairie Farmer magazine.

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 on Dustin and Melissa Cothern’s farm. Second-place honors went to Shelby, a 1-year-old Australian shepherd from Avon, Ill., who helps the Hendel family show cattle. Tim and Delreen Lenz, Strasburg, Ill., turned third-place honoree Sammi Grace from stray wanderer to tractor cab buddy.

So, whether your dog spends time riding shotgun in the combine cab or helps guard the family’s herd, 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.