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!

Related Stories
RanchHER Jessie Jarvis is a third-generation Idaho cattle rancher and an esteemed figure in the ag industry and Western world. She seamlessly balances her roles as a business owner, influencer, podcast host, public speaker, rancher, wife and mother.
Janie spends a day-in-the-life with “Of the West” founder & influencer Jessie Jarvis, for a bit of work along the historic Oregon Trail.
Janie ventures to the desert in Prescott, Arizona for cattle branding at the 7UP ranch with Penny Kasun & Dani Jeanne Lawrence.
Janie camps out on the historic YP Ranch with the operation’s matriarch, RanchHER Renee Jackson, her family, and a talented crew of cowboys as they wrap up part of branding season on their remote and expansive operation located on the state line of Nevada and Idaho.
Janie camps out at the remote State Line of Nevada & Idaho with Renee Jackson, wrapping up branding season at the historic YP ranch.
Janie spends a day in the life with Pilar Martinez,and helps with her variety of chores on the massive Centennial Ranch in Dillon, Montana.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

David Gruchot with USDA APHIS joined us to discuss the growing threat of invasive pests and the steps individuals can take to help protect U.S. agriculture.
ASFMRA’s Shawn Wood joins us to discuss farmland market trends in Arizona and the key factors shaping land values and water-driven decision-making.
CoBank Lead Energy Economist Teri Viswanath discusses their analysis of rising energy costs, rural impacts, and the outlook for fuel prices amid ongoing global uncertainty.
Risk management and diversification improve survival odds. Heidi Exline with American Farmland Trust discusses barriers to farmland access and efforts to connect the next generation of producers with retiring farmers.
National Land Realty’s Jeramy Stephens explains how rising input costs and economic uncertainty are impacting the farmland market and what landowners should watch moving forward.
Higher fuel costs are raising grain shipping expenses. RealAg Radio’s Shaun Haney discusses how energy market disruptions are impacting farmers in new ways as the War in Iran continues.
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!
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
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.