Protecting Farm & Family: Meet Aussie, the 2024 California Farm Dog of the Year!

The California Farm Bureau introduces us to Aussie, its 2024 Farm Dog of the Year! Aussie’s proved nothing—not even the loss of a limb—can stop her from protecting her farm and family.

Meet Aussie, a remarkable Australian shepherd and beloved ranch dog of the Erickson Family from Madera, California.

From catching gophers to keeping predators at bay, this devoted nine-year-old dog is integral to the Erickson family’s 2,500-acre cattle operation.

“She is wholeheartedly devoted to protecting the farm, and nothing stops her,” says Kaydence Erickson, who credits Aussie with helping her chicken breeding business thrive.

Whether guarding livestock, riding along to check fields, or celebrating her wins (like catching her first squirrel), Aussie’s dedication, resilience, and joyful spirit embody what it means to be a farm dog.

Congratulations to Aussie and the Erickson Family on this exciting award!

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