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!

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Cattle-on-Feed is down on the year in the USDA’s April report, with lower placements and marketings signaling tighter feedlot activity.
As data centers expand across Texas, experts and officials weigh economic benefits against concerns over farmland loss, water use, and impacts on agricultural land and rural communities.
Steven Snow with the U.S. Small Business Administration joined us to discuss tax relief for rural Americans and the long-term benefits of new provisions impacting farmers and small businesses.
As budget hearings continue on Capitol Hill, policymakers focus on long-term solutions to stabilize the fertilizer market to support U.S. farmers.
Rising global supplies may cap soybean price strength, while sorghum prices hinge heavily on China’s export demand.
Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
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.
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.
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.
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.