Meet Rooster, Georgia Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year

Rooster is a full-time farmhand, right-hand man on Shawn Raff’s cattle and dairy operation in Eatonton, Georgia.

EATONTON, Ga. (Farm Monitor) — Before the sun rises, before the gates open and the work begins, one small shadow is already by his side. His name is Rooster, and he is not just a dog—he is a full-time farmhand, right-hand man, and winner of the 2025 Georgia Farm Bureau Farm Dog of the Year.

On Shawn Raff’s cattle and dairy operation in Eatonton, Georgia, Rooster is there for every spray, every roundup, and every stubborn cow. Whether it is moving 300 head on his own or gently guiding dairy cattle through the barn, Rooster does it all—instinctively, precisely, and with a heart as big as Texas.

In this powerful story of loyalty and labor, Rooster proves that the best farmhands do not need to walk on two legs to make a lasting impact on an operation. Watch as we follow this remarkable border collie through daily life on the farm, his unshakable bond with Shawn, and the quiet, unseen work that earned him statewide recognition.

Related Stories
Despite volatile cattle and hog markets, many producers continue to avoid futures and options.
NCBA President-elect Kim Brackett discusses why succession planning is essential for farm and ranch families and how a new free resource can help producers plan for the next generation.
Visitors can expect new exhibits, producer showcases and Tennessee-made products at this year’s fair.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Soda discusses her upcoming appearance on the Dirt Diaries podcast with host Kirbe Schnoor about mental health advocacy and Nationwide’s efforts to support the next generation of agriculture leaders.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum joins us to discuss USDA’s latest reports on crop acreage and grain stocks, and how they impact farm margins and trade outlook moving forward.
RealAg Radio Host Shaun Haney joins us to break down the StatCan’s acreage report as traders await similar data from the USDA.
A private acreage estimate points to fewer corn acres and more soybeans ahead of the USDA’s upcoming final acreage report this week.
For farmers and ranchers, the biggest near-term pieces are in the safety net.
Chip Cortez with Specialty Risk Insurance joins us to discuss farm safety priorities during National Safety Month.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Opry Live is the premier weekly broadcast and livestream of the Grand Ole Opry, featuring country music superstars, legends, and rising talent performing on stage in Nashville.
Brought to you by Gus Arrendale & Springer Mountain Farms, join dynamic bluegrass duo Dailey & Vincent as they welcome scores of fabulous bluegrass, country, and gospel music acts as special guests. Loads of laughs, your favorite guests galore, and lots of good times are guaranteed. Don’t miss all the fun!
Join popular polka performer Mollie Busta as she hosts the weekly “Mollie B Polka Party” on RFD Network! The one-hour program features the nation’s top polka bands and a wide variety of ethnic styles, recorded on location at music festivals across the country.
Enjoy traditional country music from modern-day troubadours The Malpass Brothers. Each episode stars the brother duo of Chris & Taylor Malpass along with a featured celebrity guest– and loads of clever humor.
Twisted Skillet brings a straightforward, hands-on approach to kitchen television, rooted in food and fire. Hosted by Texas chef Sean Koehler, the series explores open-fire outdoor cooking techniques, regional ingredients, and the people who raise, prepare, and inspire the food found across America.