What’s a farmer without a faithful canine sidekick? If our years of Favorite Farm Dogs are any indication, he or she would be a lonely one — because Illinois farmers love their dogs. Even better, we’ve learned they have some pretty incredible dogs.

What about you? Is your farm dog tops? We’re willing to bet it is. Make sure your dog gets his or her day by nominating them for our 2017 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 our 2017 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. Include your name, address and phone number. Entries are due March 27.

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, Max, a 4-year-old border collie-terrier mix from Elizabeth, won first prize. 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,” Sierra 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 our 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.

And in 2014, Bear took home top honors in the Favorite Farm Dog Contest. According to his owners, Mark and Pam Eigsti, Bear caught the scent of escaping anhydrous ammonia and got their attention. Turns out, thieves had attempted to drain anhydrous from a tank but became overwhelmed by the smell and took off. Bear’s keen border collie sense of smell helped them discover the problem and get it stopped before even more anhydrous leaked out.

So whether your dog is your companion, protector, family or best friend, be sure to send your favorite stories and best photo our way by March 27. Send digital entries using the app below. Applicants must be 14 or older. All photos become property of Prairie Farmer and will not be returned.

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