Maremma Blog

Book Review: “Grooming Without Stress, Safer, Quicker, Happier” by Terrie Hayward, Jay Andors & Anne Francis

A Game-Changer for Dog Grooming and Care As someone who began grooming dogs at age 14 and has spent decades working with animals, I can honestly say that Terrie Hayward, Jay Andors, and Anne Francis's "Grooming Without Stress" represents a revolutionary approach to...

The Ultimate Guide to Grooming Your Livestock Guardian Dog

When I first started breeding Maremma Sheepdogs years ago, I quickly realized that new livestock guardian dog owners faced a unique challenge: how do you properly groom a 100+ pound working dog with a thick double coat who's designed to be independent and...

The One Thing Most Livestock Guardian Dog Owners Skip (But Shouldn’t)

As a Maremma Sheepdog breeder and trainer with years of experience, I've noticed a pattern among Livestock Guardian Dog owners. There's a crucial step that separates those who struggle with their dogs from those who truly thrive - and surprisingly, it's not about the...

Protect Your Valuable Livestock Guardian Dog: Why Insurance Can’t Wait

Protecting your livestock guardian dog means safeguarding your peace of mind. You've done everything right. You researched reputable breeders and invested in health-tested parents. You brought home a beautiful Maremma Sheepdog puppy with a comprehensive health...

Why Smart Planning Makes All the Difference: Your Guide to Maremma Success

The difference between getting any dog and getting YOUR dog lies in one thing: planning ahead.   This week, I watched Noelle load Romeo and Pele into airline crates for their flight home to the Bay Area. These weren't just any dogs—they were the perfect match for...

Celebrating Success – Marcella’s 2024 Maremma Litter Turns One

This week marks a milestone that fills my heart with pride and joy - the first birthday of our June 2024 Maremma Sheepdog litter. One year ago, six beautiful puppies took their first breaths in our Puppy Parlor, marking the beginning of a journey that would transform...

Celebrating Your Maremma Sheepdog’s Remarkable First Year

Your Maremma's first birthday represents far more than just marking time—it's a celebration of an incredible transformation from the puppy you first brought home to the developing livestock guardian dog or family companion they've become. At Prancing Pony Farm, we...

Why Ethical Livestock Guardian Dog Breeding Matters Despite Challenges

"I hate your business." Those are the words I hear from my husband whenever challenges arise in my Maremma Sheepdog breeding business. He sees the stress, the late nights, the financial investment that rarely turns a profit, the emotional ups and downs of working with...

A Professional Journey & Dream Come True: I’m Now a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner

I'm beyond thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you today. After a year and a half-long journey of countless hours of study, practice, video submissions, and assessments, I've officially completed the Karen Pryor Academy Dog Trainer Professional program. I...

Why Your Livestock Guardian Dog Gets Frustrated: Simple Solutions That Work

Livestock Guardian Dogs are incredibly devoted protectors who take their job seriously. But sometimes, they can display behaviors that might seem concerning, like barking aggressively at something on the other side of a fence, yet being perfectly calm when that...
How to Successfully Train Your New Maremma Sheepdog

How to Successfully Train Your New Maremma Sheepdog

There are three key components that are required in order to produce an outstanding Livestock Guardian Dog. The first two - genetics and early training and socialization (or Nature and Nurture) - are the responsibility of the breeder. If you've bought a puppy from us...

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How Many Livestock Guardian Dogs do I Need on My Farm?

How Many Livestock Guardian Dogs do I Need on My Farm?

Ask this question of dog breeders, livestock owners and even pet dog owners and you will get a lot of different opinions, some of them very strong. New puppy buyers are trying to do their research so they can the best thing for their dogs and their stock....

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Happy New Year 2025!

Happy New Year 2025!

2024 was a busy year with a lot of exciting happenings. Now, we are looking forward to what 2025 has in store for Prancing Pony Farm!

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I Was Interviewed on The Honest Dog Breeder Podcast!

I Was Interviewed on The Honest Dog Breeder Podcast!

It took me several years of searching, but I finally found the perfect person to support breeders, which means that, in turn, she is helping our clients. Meet Julie Swan, owner of The Honest Dog Breeder. Julie’s mission is to help ethical and responsible breeders run businesses that serve their clients and honor their dogs without causing undo stress to themselves and their families.

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Client Stories: Oliver the Excellent Chicken Guardian

Client Stories: Oliver the Excellent Chicken Guardian

At Prancing Pony Farm, we understand that each livestock guardian dog has a unique story, and Oliver’s experience showcases the profound connections we share with these remarkable animals. Our Maremmas are more than just protectors; they are cherished family members, embodying love and commitment in their roles. We carefully choose each dog we breed for their temperament and health, ensuring they produce puppies devoted to safeguarding your livestock and loving and affectionate towards their families. Bring home your own Prancing Pony Maremma, and you’ll know steadfast loyalty and peace of mind like Oliver’s family.

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Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Livestock Guardian Dogs

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for Livestock Guardian Dogs

Thanksgiving is a season of joy, gratitude, and indulgent feasting. It’s a time when we gather with family and friends to celebrate the abundance of life. But while you’re enjoying pumpkin pie and turkey with your loved ones, don’t forget about another important member of your farm family—your hardworking livestock guardian dog (LGD).
Whether you have a loyal Maremma Sheepdog or another breed, your livestock guardian dog deserves as much care and attention during the holidays as the rest of your flock.
Holidays can bring extra chaos with visitors, food, and distractions, which may present unexpected risks for your LGD. With extra preparation, you can ensure your dog stays safe, happy, and stress-free this Thanksgiving.
Here are six thoughtful tips to keep your LGD protected and comfortable during the festivities.

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Parasite Prevention Protocol for Livestock Guardian Dog Puppies

Parasite Prevention Protocol for Livestock Guardian Dog Puppies

At Prancing Pony Maremmas, we understand that raising healthy and happy livestock guardian dog puppies begins with loving care and smart prevention practices. Our easy parasite prevention protocol helps create the perfect environment for puppies to thrive. We emphasize the importance of regular check-ups, getting the right doses of essential medications like Fenbendazole and Toltrazuril, and introducing high-quality probiotics to keep their tummies happy after treatment. We’re also here to share helpful tips with other puppy owners and recommend trustworthy products like Cocciguard to keep coccidiosis at bay. We start our puppies right, putting their health and happiness first!

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Ready to Join the Family?

The best way to start the process is by filling out our Maremma contact form. Then, we can send you information on available puppies and dogs. You’ll also be able to fill out our puppy application. The application helps us better understand you and your needs so we can match you with the perfect puppy!

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