Kim Crawmer KPA CTP, LFDM
Maremma Sheepdog Code of Ethics Breeder
Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner
Licensed Family Dog Mediator
Hi, I'm Kim, Your Guide to Livestock Guardian Dog Success
I am here to help you succeed in the challenging world of Livestock Guardian Dogs. With specialized training as a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP) and Licensed Family Dog Mediator (LFDM), I provide the expertise and support you need to succeed with your LGD. My approach combines science-based training methods with extensive practical experience, raising both LGDs and the livestock they protect.
I Understand Your Challenges
I know the frustrations and concerns you face as an LGD owner or prospective owner:
- Protecting your valuable livestock from increasingly bold predators
- Finding trustworthy information amidst conflicting advice
- Worrying about whether your dog will reliably guard without harming livestock
- Balancing your dog’s working role with family life
These challenges are real, and the stakes are high. Your livestock represent both a significant investment and a labor of love. You deserve a partner who understands not just the dogs but your entire farming ecosystem.
Your Path to Success
Working with me gives you access to:
- Proven Expertise: As both a Maremma Sheepdog Club of America Code of Ethics Breeder and certified dog trainer, I offer guidance based on real-world experience and science-based education, not the questionable “advice” and myths propagated on social media and other unreliable resources.
- Science-Based Methods: Through my Karen Pryor Academy certification, I’ve mastered positive reinforcement techniques that work effectively with the independent nature of Livestock Guardian Dogs.
- Livestock-Focused Training: My approach is specifically tailored to working farm environments, addressing the unique challenges of integrating LGDs with various livestock species.
- Companion-Focused Training: I also have the personal and professional experience to assist with LGDs who live as companions.
- Ongoing Support: I provide continued guidance long after your initial consultation or puppy purchase, ensuring you never face challenges alone.
My Background & Qualifications
My journey with animals began in childhood, spending weekends on my grandparents’ Kentucky homestead while dreaming of owning my own farm. After years of professional experience in dog grooming, breeding, and animal care, I finally established Prancing Pony Farm in Lemoore, California in 2015.
When predators threatened my own livestock, I discovered the value of properly trained Livestock Guardian Dogs. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering both the art of breeding exceptional Maremmas and the science of training these magnificent livestock guardians.
My credentials include:
- Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner (KPA CTP)
- Licensed Family Dog Mediator through LEGS Applied Ethology
- Maremma Sheepdog Club of America Code of Ethics Breeder
- Pet Professional Guild Member
- Extensive coursework in positive reinforcement training, canine behavior, and livestock management
How I Can Help You
Whether you’re seeking a well-started puppy from health-tested parents or need guidance with your current livestock guardian dog, I offer solutions tailored to your specific situation:
- Quality Breeding Program: Puppies with extensive livestock socialization from birth, comprehensive health testing, a well-planned puppy socialization program based on positive reinforcement, and careful placement to ensure the right fit for your farm or companion home
- Virtual Training Consultations: Personalized guidance to address your specific challenges with LGDs of any age or breed
- Family Dog Mediation: Help integrating your LGD with children and other family dynamics
- Educational Resources: Access to detailed guides, courses, and ongoing support to ensure your success
My Commitment to You
My primary goal is your success with your Livestock Guardian Dog. I believe in building relationships based on trust and mutual respect—both between you and your dog and between us as partners in your LGD journey.
I’m not here to simply sell you a dog or a training program. I’m committed to being your long-term resource and guide as you navigate the rewarding but sometimes challenging world of Livestock Guardian Dogs.
Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional
In April 2024, I completed the prestigious Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional Program. This rigorous six-month program represents the gold standard in professional dog training, focusing on science-based methods, positive reinforcement techniques, and effective behavior modification strategies.
LEGS Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediator
Also in April 2024, I earned my Family Dog Mediator License through LEGS Applied Ethology Professional Course. This specialized training equips me to address complex family-dog relationships and solve challenging behavioral issues using advanced ethological principles.
Courses I Have Completed
Karen Pryor Academy Courses
- Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Foundations
- Karen Pryor Academy Puppy Start Right for Instructors
- Karen Pryor Academy Better Veterinary Visits
- Training For Professionals- Across Species – In-person five day course at the Karen Pryor National Training Center.
- Karen Pryor Academy: Hesitant Hounds
- Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional Program
Other Courses, Conferences and Webinars
- Puppy Culture course
- Institute of Canine Biology Understanding Hip and Elbow Dysplasia course
- L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediation Professional Certification Course
- Victoria Stillwell Academy Dog Behavior Conference 2024
Memberships
- The Maremma Sheepdog Club of America
- The United Kennel Club
- The Honest Dog Breeder – Dog Breeder Society
- International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants
- Pet Professional Guild
- The Shock Free Coalition
- Doggone Safe
- Project tRade
Suzanne Clothier's Relationship Centered Training
- Introduction to CARAT course
- Treat Retreat webinar
- Enriched Puppy Protocol course
- Creating Attentive Cooperation
- Go Say Hi, 1, 2, 3!
- Socialization MAP
- The Auto Check-in
- Really Real Relaxation
- Maddening to Maturity: Understanding the Adolescent Dog
- The Elemental Questions
Badass Breeder Courses
- Empowered Badass Breeder Mentorship Course
- Badass Breeder Puppy Evaluator Certification Course
- Badass Breeder Our Oath That Unites Us
- Badass Breeder How to Use Canva
- Badass Breeder The Business Side of Dog Breeding
- Badass Breeder Medicine, Feeding, Foot Baths, Hand Washing, Dam Butt Baths
- Badass Breeder Reservation Lists, Master Lists, Litter Lists
- Badass Breeder How to have a Badass Breeder Go Home Day
- Badass Breeder New Litter Forms
- Badass Breeder Client Webpages for Litter Info
- Badass Breeder Giardia Protocol That Works
- Badass Breeder Trupanion Health Insurance
Bulldog Social Club Interview
Honest Dog Breeder Interview
In December 2024, I was honored to be interviewed by Julie Swann of The Honest Dog Breeder on her podcast series, The 12 Days of Breeders. Check out the interview below.
Julie provides a lot of valuable resources for dog breeders. Check out the link below to learn more about Julie and her services.
Ready to Join the Family?
The best way to start the process is by joining our email list. We will send you our puppy application, information on available puppies and dogs, and a link to book a phone call if you wish. Then, we will match you with the perfect Maremma Sheepdog for you!
Join Our Email List!
Sign up for our email newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted on upcoming litters and available dogs! Our email list members are always the first to know and get first dibs on available dogs. We also send out helpful Maremma Sheepdog care and training articles and links to useful resources.
