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.
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.
Emerald Mtn. Ranch
(opens in a new tab)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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𝗜 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗵𝗮𝗽𝗽𝘆 𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴.
We love our dogs deeply, and we care just as much about the folks who give them their homes. Recently, we got a call from AKC Reunite because one of our pups had been scanned at a shelter. The chip wasn’t registered in the owner's name, but since every single puppy we raise leaves with a prepaid chip and us as the secondary contact, AKC Reunite reached out to us.
Working dogs can sometimes find themselves on an unexpected adventure away from home, and things happen out in the country. Because we want to make sure every dog is always protected, we were able to quickly figure out which pup that chip belonged to. We connected with AKC Reunite, they filled us in on where the dog was, and we got straight in touch with the owner and the shelter so everybody could get back home where they belong.
This right here is exactly why we microchip every single puppy before they leave our hands. Life happens, and having that safety net means there is always a direct line back to us and home. We love seeing our dogs reunited with their families, but please know we will always be a soft place to land. If an owner ever can't be found or things change, our dogs can always come back to the ranch.
First snowstorm for the ranch. Vixen has a dry and warm dog house, but she refuses to use it because it would block her view of the meadow while her sheep graze right beside her.
True livestock guardian mode. 🫶
#EmeraldMtnRanch #turkishboz #livestockguardiandog #firstsnow #RanchLife #LGD #workingdogs
Happy 6th birthday to the absolute boss of Emerald Mtn Ranch, our one and only McNab Shepherd, Gizmo!
For being just a 38-pound compact powerhouse, this girl runs the whole place. If you have ever wondered how a medium-sized dog keeps a multi-species ranch in line, let me tell you a little bit about what makes McNabs such incredible working dogs.
Originating out in the Mendocino County region of California back around the Gold Rush, the McNab breed was specifically developed by Scottish settlers who crossed local stock dogs with clever Scottish collies. They needed a tough, tireless, and hyper-intelligent dog that could handle rough brush, hot weather, and stubborn range cattle without quitting. Gizmo is the living definition of that heritage. She is lightning-fast, endlessly smart, and possesses a work ethic that doesn't quit.
Here on the ranch, that means Gizmo takes her supervisor duties very seriously. She somehow even manages to boss around our giant Turkish Boz livestock guardian dogs like she outweighs them by a hundred pounds. They respect her, the livestock respect her, and we certainly don't argue with her.
But out of all her skills, her true superpower is how she has chosen her person. Over the years, Gizmo has officially become Taylor's dog. Wherever Taylor goes, Gizmo is right by her side, acting as her shadow, her best friend, and her dedicated partner in all things ranch life.
#EmeraldMtnRanch #McNabShepherd #RanchLife #WorkingDog #DogBirthday #RanchDog #Cowdog