SAN ANTONIO — A 6-year-old Maremma sheepdog named Sirius is AFBF’s 2025 Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year.
Owned by Florida Farm Bureau members Jorge and Debbie Garcia-Bengochea, Sirius was recognized by AFBF — with support from Nestlé Purina PetCare — during the 106th American Farm Bureau Convention, being held in San Antonio, Texas.
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 Federation’s Convention.
Sirius was called a “hero behind the heroes” for his work protecting a herd of miniature therapy horses that bring comfort to adults and children in hospitals, hospice programs and assisted living programs, in addition to families, veterans and first responders who have experienced traumatic events.
His owners know the horses are safe when Sirius is on alert.
“Guardian dogs are like having a 24-7 security system on the farm,” Jorge said. “I feel great about the farm being safe, and very proud of what Sirius is doing to protect the horses.”
Purina, one of the nation’s leading pet care companies, 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 Sirius. The company has been helping dogs and cats live longer, healthier lives through scientifically based nutritional innovations for 130 years.
People’s Choice Pup
Members of the public voted online in the People’s Choice Pup part of the competition and chose Daisy, owned by Kentucky Farm Bureau members Shelby and Lora Ennis.
A rescue pup herself, Daisy is a rescuer. After Lora fell at home, Daisy came to the rescue by barking for help. Click the video below to see her story.
Daisy receives a trophy plate, Purina products and a $2,500 cash prize.
Charitable donation
New this year, as part of the Farm Dog of the Year program, AFBF will donate $1,500 in honor of Sirius and Daisy to P.H.A.R.M. Dog USA, which trains and places farm dogs with farmers living with physical, cognitive or illness-related disabilities.
“Farm dogs often play a dual role as both working dogs and companions to farm and ranch families,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall.
“Farming is very rewarding but stressful at times. Farm dogs can help ease the burden. It has been a pleasure partnering with Purina for the seventh annual Farm Dog of the Year contest, providing the public a glimpse of daily life on the farm.”