Ranching in the Yampa Valley

Emerald Mtn Ranch

 The Emerald Mtn Ranch Difference

The Stanko Legacy: Five Generations of High-Country Ranching

Since 1907, our family has stewarded the same 700 acres in the Yampa Valley of Northwest Colorado. We don’t just live on the land; we are a part of it. For over a century, Emerald Mtn Ranch has survived the challenges of high-altitude ranching, and that century of experience is built into every aspect of our operation.

The Turkish Boz Shepherd: Elite Protection for the Modern Ranch

While many are just discovering the Turkish Boz Shepherd, we have integrated these ancient giants into the heartbeat of our 700-acre working ranch. We are more than breeders—we are LGD advocates dedicated to the workability and health of this exceptional breed.
Our Boz Shepherds are not raised in kennels. They are born and raised in “the thick of it,” living alongside cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and poultry from day one. This real-world immersion ensures that our dogs possess:
Proven Instinct: Natural guardian behavior tested against the predators of the Colorado Rockies.
Climate Resilience: Adaptability to high-altitude and extreme weather environments.
Balanced Temperament: The intelligence to discern true threats and the loyalty to bond deeply with both livestock and family.

Advocacy, Research & Education

What sets Emerald Mtn Ranch apart is our commitment to the agricultural community. We believe that a guardian dog is only as good as the knowledge behind it. That is why we work closely with USDA programs, universities, and fellow ranchers to help improve LGD programs nationwide.
We provide ongoing education to the public and work with others on LGD training and management, serving as a resource for homesteaders and large-scale producers alike. When you choose a Boz from us, you aren’t just getting a dog; you’re gaining a century of ranching expertise and a partner in predator management.

Proud Members of

USDA Wildlife Services Colorado Non-Lethal Program

We partner with the USDA to supply puppies for their program

Read More about the program

good dog

See our profile on Good Dog

EMR Good Dog Profile
I found my 9 month old Turkish Boz pup online at Emerald Mtn Ranch.
Our property  is visited frequently by coyotes and we knew we needed a coyote-deterrent!!
My husband and I were very impressed with the entire experience we had with EMR and the Stanko family.
Jan knew I had concerns letting  such a big untrained dog out for potty breaks, during our 2 day drive home. Knowing I couldn’t drive to Colorado to get him for another month, she wasted no time training him on the leash and getting in and out of a vehicle. We are eternally grateful for that!

As a veterinarian, I have seen the best and worst of living conditions that animals/pets endure. I was very impressed with EMR! The animal pens and pastures were large, very clean and offered plenty of shelter. The animals appeared healthy, quiet and relaxed suggesting they feel content and not stressed. We even spent the night on their property in our RV and I was surprised at how quiet it was especially with “all those dogs!”

The Stankos are very knowledgeable about all the LGD breeds and were very helpful in guiding us on our new journey with Bailiff.

We look forward to seeing Bailiff grow into his full potential as a dog with a job!

Thank you Jan and Patrick.
Katrina and Bryan Vanesian
We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Emerald Mtn Ranch and with our new Boz Shepherd puppy, Arturo. Jan is truly an outstanding breeder. From the very beginning, it was clear how much care, knowledge, and dedication she puts into raising her dogs.
The ranch itself is absolutely amazing, and the environment she provides for her puppies makes such a difference. Jan does an incredible job socializing them — exposing them to other animals, taking them on car rides, and handling them constantly so they are comfortable and confident. That early foundation really shows.
Our boy Arturo is one of the best puppies we’ve ever had. He is even-tempered, easygoing, and just goes with the flow. Nothing seems to stress him out. His calm, confident personality is a true testament to the thoughtful breeding and early socialization he received.
Emerald Mtn Ranch Boz Shepherd is an amazing Boz Shepherd breeder, and we highly recommend Jan to anyone looking for a well-rounded, stable, and beautifully raised puppy. We are beyond grateful for Arturo!
Dagmar Josie Wittner2025 Talat/Zana
We have two amazing Boz dogs from Emerald Mtn Ranch and can’t say enough good things about them! The breed is awesome and the experience/intro to guarding these pups come with is amazing. Jan is very knowledgeable and helpful. 100% recommend EMR!!
Ayla Cocho2025 Talat/Princess
Our Turkish boz pup went right to work upon arriving on the ranch. She’s trustworthy with people, though not excessively friendly. She sure loves her sheep! The early training she received form Emerald Mtn. Ranch set her up for success.
Megan Manner 2024 Sox Litter