Who We Are?

About us

Welcome to Emerald Mountain Ranch, stewards of the fifth-generation legacy of Stanko Ranch established 1907. Nestled in the stunning landscapes of the Yampa River Valley and Emerald Mountain, we share the challenges, commitment, and satisfaction of ranching in the Colorado mountains. Meet our beloved animals and learn about our Amazing Loyal Hardworking Livestock Guardian Dogs, including Turkish Boz Shepherds. Join us as we celebrate our way of life and the enduring spirit of ranching.

Patrick
Jan

The Stanko Ranch sits nestled on the western slope of Emerald Mountain, also known as Quarry Mountain, in the picturesque surroundings of Steamboat Springs. Originating from a humble 160-acre claim staked by Patrick’s Great Grandfather in 1907, the ranch has flourished over the years, expanding to over 600 acres. Throughout its history, it has been a hub of agricultural activity, cultivating crops such as wheat and potatoes, and raising livestock including cattle, sheep, and hogs.

Today, the Stanko Ranch remains a labor of love for the family of Jim and Jo (Patrick’s Parents), Patrick, and Jan. Their commitment to preserving the legacy of the ranch extends to the careful selection of livestock guardian dogs. In response to the proximity of wolves in neighboring Wyoming, Jan embarked on a quest to find capable guardians for their livestock. After thorough research, the family settled on Turkish Boz Shepherds, renowned for their effectiveness in protecting livestock.

At the heart of their operation is a dedication to producing top-notch working Livestock Guardian Dogs (LGDs), meticulously trained and exposed to various aspects of ranch life, from protecting cattle and sheep to safeguarding poultry. The Stanko Ranch stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of family farming and the timeless bond between humans and animals.

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Emerald Mtn. Ranch

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Emerald Mtn Ranch | 5th Generation Stanko Ranch Est. 1907 • 700-acre Yampa Valley working ranch. Purpose-bred Turkish Boz Shepherds, raised and proven under predator pressure.Advocates for LGDs, land & livestock. 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗱𝗠𝘁𝗻𝗥𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗵.𝗰𝗼𝗺
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Porsche ,2-Year-Old Intact Female

​Lineage: Out of Kronos X Stora
​Stats: 31" at the shoulder, 135 lbs

​Health: Embark health test PennHIP, OFA prelim elbows, OFA thyroid, and OFA heart (clear) (all documentation available).

​Traits & Working Style: Good with mature livestock (will protect her feed from stock). Eager to please her handler, though naturally more standoffish. She enjoys affection, respects fencing, and does well with pet/house dogs. Not suitable with other female LGDs or poultry/birds.Reach out if you would like more information 🐾
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Talat , 6-Year-Old Proven Male Stud

​Lineage: Out of TitusXZaida (John Cruz, WI)

​Health: Embark DNA tested clear.

​Traits & Working Style: Talat weighs 140 lbs and is 31 inches at the shoulder a proven sire who consistently throws pups bigger than himself (we’ve kept several of his offspring in our program). He has a kind, non-confrontational demeanor with stock, though he will guard his feed from stock if they try to eat it. Respects fences well. Scared of thunder. Not suitable around poultry/birds.

Located in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Nationwide transport can be arranged at the buyer’s expense for the right placement.
​Please send a direct message for serious inquiries, pricing, and full health documentation/pedigrees.
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Talat , 6-Year-Old P

Look at miss orange collar calmly watching the whole world go by! 🍊 She was being such a quiet, observant little girl until she caught me filming her.

​This sweet girl is still available and looking for her home. Send us a message if you’re interested in making her part of your pack. 🐾
#ColoradoBoz #livestockguardiandog #puppylove
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