Farm dogs help their farmers with a lot of tasks. They help move livestock. They guard cattle, chickens, sheep and goats from predators. They ride along in the truck or tractor to keep their farmers company and relieve stress during long work days. 

Realizing the special role farm dogs play in helping their farmers, Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) held its 3rd Annual Georgia Farm Dog of the Year contest this year to honor the canines who help with chores and offer unconditional love to their farmers.

Riggs, a tri-red Australian Shepherd who lives on a farm in Morgan County with his owner, Kelly Smith, was named the 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year at the Sunbelt Ag Expo on Oct. 20. Photo courtesy of Georgia Farm Bureau

Riggs, a tri-red Australian Shepherd who lives on Shadow Lane Farm in Morgan County was named the 2026 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year during the Willie B. Withers Sunbelt Expo Luncheon on Oct. 20. As the winner, Riggs received a medal and his person, Kelly Smith, received a gift card to buy Riggs treats.

“For many Georgia farmers, a good farm dog is their right-hand companion. This is why Georgia Farm Bureau is proud to recognize these dogs through our Georgia Farm Dog of the Year Contest,” said GFB President Tom McCall. “Georgia Farm Bureau is dedicated to supporting Georgia’s farm families. Honoring the dogs who work beside them is one way we say thank you for the work that happens on our farms every day to feed and clothe us and to grow the timber used to house us.”

Riggs was chosen by a panel of judges with knowledge of farm dogs. What stood out most for the judges is his versatility.

At home on his Morgan County farm, Riggs helps Smith monitor and manage horses, goats and chickens. He’s part of every morning and evening feeding. Smith enrolls Riggs in herding lessons to keep improving his livestock-handling skills.   

Like many farmers, Riggs has an off-farm job. He goes to work with Smith at Putnam County High School where she teaches agricultural education and is an FFA advisor. Every morning, Riggs helps with barn checks on the school’s show heifers and pigs.

In Smith’s Veterinary Science classes, Riggs is a hands-on teaching partner. He patiently lets the students learn how to handle animals as they practice their dog grooming skills and learn how to observe animal behavior. 

Riggs is also a decorated competitor. He holds numerous American Kennel Club and United Kennel Club titles in farm dog certification, herding, obedience, rally, temperament, and trick dog. 

Riggs stands 20 inches tall and weighs about 49 pounds. Smith says Riggs’ favorite treat is freeze- dried chicken hearts.

“Riggs is a true partner in every aspect of my life. Whether he is helping manage livestock on the farm, supporting students in the classroom, competing in performance events, or tackling new adventures on the trail, he approaches every task with heart, intelligence, and unwavering dedication,” Smith said. “His ability to seamlessly transition between farm work, educational settings, competitive arenas, and emotional support roles speaks to his remarkable temperament and versatility. His work ethic, loyalty, and drive make him truly one of a kind.”

Georgia Farm Bureau is known for its love of dogs as Lucky, also an Australian Shepherd, has served as the GFB mascot since 2021. Many thanks are extended to Good Boy Goodies, a Georgia Grown company that makes all-natural, wholesome dog treats, for sponsoring the contest. Visit  https://gfb.ag/26farmdogcontest to learn more about the contest. Visit www.goodboygoodies.com to learn more about the contest sponsor.

Georgia Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization dedicated to supporting the future of Georgia's family farms and consumers’ access to locally grown food and fiber. Membership is open to everyone. Visit www.gfb.org to learn how GFB supports farmers, connects consumers with farmers through its Farm Passport Program and to learn about the many discount benefits offered to members.