Why Choose Prancing Pony Farm?

So Your Dog Doesn't Become One of the 30% of LGDS That Fail

The Real Reason 30% of LGDs Fail - And How We Prevent It

The Problem Everyone Talks About:

Yes, health testing matters. Hip and elbow dysplasia cripple dogs. Genetic defects are expensive. We do all that testing.

But here’s what nobody tells you:

Thirty percent of LGDs fail and most of those failures happen because of training and socialization problems, and lack of support, not genetics.

The Problem Nobody Solves.

You know what causes those training failures?

  • Puppies locked in barns with no human contact
  • Breeders with zero professional training education
  • Breeders who abandon buyers after the check is cashed
  • Customers left to figure it out from social media
  • 20 different ‘experts’ giving 20 different answers
  • Overwhelming confusion that leads to costly mistakes

The result? You’re scared, confused, and your expensive dog fails.

Why We’re Different From Other LGD Breeders

Here’s our secret: I’ve been where you are.

I had decades of dog experience and still ended up terrified of my own Maremma because of bad information.

So I did something most breeders never do:

I went to professional school to become a certified dog trainer.

Not to train other people’s dogs (though I do some of that). To make absolutely sure:

  • My puppies are socialized correctly from birth
  • My training methods actually work
  • My customers never feel the confusion I felt

The Karen Pryor Academy certification + L.E.G.S. Family Dog Mediator + continuous education = puppies that succeed and owners who feel confident.

What This Means for You

When you get a puppy from Prancing Pony Farm:

Health (What Some Breeders Do)

  • ✓ PennHip/OFA tested breeding dogs
  • ✓ 2-year health guarantee

Training (What Almost NO Breeders Do Right)

  • ✓ Extensive full-time socialization from birth with livestock
  • ✓ Socialization with a wide variety of humans and experiences
  • ✓ Force-free positive reinforcement training methods
  • ✓ Proper development through critical socialization periods
  • ✓ Foundation professional training before they leave the farm
  • ✓ Understand each dog’s LEGS (Learning, Environment, Genetics, Self)

    Support (What Separates Success from Failure)

    • ✓ Lifetime access to certified professional trainer (KPA CTP)
    • ✓ Lifetime access to a Licenced LEGS Applied Ethology Family Dog Mediator
    • ✓ Guidance through every developmental stage
    • ✓ Real answers instead of Facebook confusion
    • ✓ Someone who answers texts when you’re worried at 11pm
    • ✓ A lifetime satisfaction guarantee

    Result: You never second-guess decisions. You never feel scared of your own dog. You sleep peacefully knowing your livestock is protected.

    Why We Breed, Why We Breed: My 50-Year Journey to This Mission

    I dreamed of having a farm from the time I was a little girl. But life had other plans—my husband’s Navy career meant constant moves, and that dream stayed just out of reach for 50 years. We did have a small farm in Virginia for a few years, but when orders came for California, we had to sell everything and start over. At 50, we finally had the chance to put down roots and make my lifelong dream real.

    When we bought our new farm in California coyote country, I quickly discovered a harsh reality: predators were everywhere, and theft was a real concern. I knew we would need a Livestock Guardian Dog to protect our goats and other animals. Five-month-old Olaf joined our farm, and Genevieve followed soon after. Both dogs quickly won our hearts—and saved my dream.

    It didn’t take me long to realize that Maremmas are extraordinary. Dogs that would lay down their lives to protect an animal of another species are genuinely awe-inspiring. But more than that, I realized I couldn’t have this farm—this life I’d waited 50 years for—without them.

    We had our first litter in 2017. It was incredible to watch those pups grow and mature into amazing LGDs and place them in homes doing the vital work they were bred to do. I was utterly in love with these incredible dogs and on a mission to help others who needed protection for their animals. Some Maremma breeders believe these dogs should not be made into “pets.” I used to believe that, too. My dogs and their families taught me differently.

    As I relaxed my idea of what an LGD’s role should be, I realized that most of my pups had been multi-tasking “family farm dogs” all along—effortlessly filling the roles of LGD and family companion. The puppies we breed bring great joy and companionship to their families, regardless of whether they guard livestock, other family pets, or their human family, or some combination of those.

    I breed because I know what my dogs have made possible for me. They gave me the peace of mind to actually live my dream instead of constantly worrying about losing it. And I want to share that gift with other families pursuing their own homestead dreams.

    If this is the kind of relationship you want with your next dog, click on the button below to become a part of the Prancing Pony Farm family.

    Don't Settle for an "Affordable" Livestock Guardian Dog

    Some people prioritize a low price over other traits when it comes to choosing a Livestock Guardian Dog. They elect to buy an inexpensive dog to save money for other things. We get it. Starting a farm or homestead is expensive.

    However, a Livestock Guardian Dog is an investment in your livestock’s safety and your peace of mind. Many breeders are willing to sell you an “affordable” puppy. But that low price usually means they cut corners in important areas. The decision to buy from such a breeder may come back to haunt you.

    Learn why cutting corners on your livestock guardian dog could cost you more in heartbreak and expenses than you ever imagined.

    Our Foundation for Breeding Excellence

    At Prancing Pony Farm, we breed and train outstanding Maremma Sheepdog Livestock Guardians and family companions. Our dogs have the genetics, temperaments, and training to excel as trustworthy, dependable Livestock Guardians and family dogs, as well as sound and healthy bodies to withstand the rigors of the job. Our outstanding lifetime client support and virtual training services ensure that your new Maremma will be a joy and a blessing, regardless of the role they play in your life.

    Breed Incredible Dogs

    It all starts with breeding incredible dogs. We breed sound, healthy dogs with superior Livestock Guardian abilities who also make devoted family or personal companions. Our dogs thrive on modern farms, ranches, and homesteads, big and small. One of our clients (who bought 2 pups from us in 2019 and 1 in 2021) dubbed our dogs “plug and play,” and the term says it all!

    Understand & Support Our Buyers

    My goal is to see you and your dog thrive together. I invest a lot of time in training and handling my puppies, getting to know them, and understanding the kind of home they would do best in. I am adept at matching the right dog with the right family, whether you need an LGD, a family companion, or a bit of both. Your needs and desires, and the well-being of the dogs, are at the heart of what I do.

    Provide Unparalleled Lifetime Client Support

    My responsibility to you isn’t done once you take your puppy home. My outstanding lifetime client support ensures that your new Maremma will be a joy and a blessing, regardless of their role in your life. My extensive background in dog training and behavior and years of experience breeding and training Maremmas enables me to assist you in training your puppy as it matures, so you won’t need to figure things out on your own.

     

    What Makes Our Maremmas Different

    Working LGDs

    Our breeding dogs come from the best MSCA and UKC-registered proven working lines. They all live full-time with and guard our dairy goats and other animals. Our puppies are raised with livestock from birth.

    "Plug & Play" Puppies

     Our puppy socialization program utilizes Puppy Culture and other positive reinforcement training methods to produce happy, resilient LGDs and family dogs. Our “Plug & Play” pups thrive in a variety of homes.

    Healthy Dogs & Pups

    Our breeding dogs are PennHip and OFA tested for hip and elbow dysplasia and DNA tested to screen for genetic defects, minimizing the chance they will pass debilitating health problems on to their puppies.

    Happy Families

    We offer our clients a 2-year health guarantee and lifetime support. We’re always available for advice, encouragement, and training assistance. We will be there for you every step of the way, for your dog’s entire life!

     

    Why Prancing Pony Maremmas Are Perfect for Homestead Families

    Not every livestock guardian dog breed works well with busy families, children, and the unique needs of homestead life. Here’s why  our Maremmas consistently excel in family situations:

    • Gentle with Children, Fierce with Predators: Our Maremmas have the perfect balance—naturally gentle and patient with family members while being protective of their charges. They understand the difference.
    • Independent but Manageable: They make good decisions on their own (great when you’re at work or soccer practice) but are still responsive to family members when needed.
    • Adaptable to Different Animals: Whether you have chickens, goats, sheep, or a mix of homestead animals, our Maremmas adapt to protect whatever they’re raised with.
    • Work Around Your Schedule: Once established, they don’t need constant supervision or management. They protect your animals while you live your busy family life.
    • Weather Hardy: From summer heat to winter snow, they’re comfortable outside year-round, which works perfectly for busy families.

    Years in Business

    Years Working Professionally With Dogs

    Maremma Puppies Bred & Trained

    Happy Families

    MSCA Code of Ethics Breeder

    I am a Maremma Sheepdog Club of America Code of Ethics Breeder. Code of Ethics breeders set themselves apart from all other breeders by pledging to adhere to the highest standards and ethics in breeding. The Code of Ethics states:

    “The Maremma Sheepdog Club of America aspires to protect the development of Maremma Sheepdogs by encouraging breeders to adopt the Code Of Ethics to promote and foster the highest standards among breeders who are concerned with the propagation of physically, mentally and temperamentally sound Maremma Sheepdogs of proper breed type, and to encourage cooperation in the improvement, advancement, and protection of our breed. Code of Ethics Breeders accept responsibility for the protection, well-being, and improvement of the breed…”

    Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner

    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.

     

    Licensed Family Dog Mediator

    As a graduate of the L.E.G.S. Applied Ethology program and a Licensed Family Dog Mediator, I can empower you to understand your dog’s unique L.E.G.S. This understanding will help your dog thrive in their role and deepen the bond between you and your dog. Whether your dog is a Livestock Guardian Dog, a Family Companion, or a bit of both, I can help!

     

    Reviews From Our Amazing Clients

    Real Families. Real Livestock Guardian Dogs. Real Results.

    Our Maremmas aren’t just puppies — they grow into loyal, trustworthy livestock guardian dogs and beloved companions. Here are real photos and quotes we’ve received from Prancing Pony Maremma families showing their dogs at work and at play. We’re proud of every one of them, and we’re grateful to our clients for sharing their journeys with us.

    Cassius and Athena prove that Maremmas can be livestock guardian dogs AND family pets. These two lovely dogs that we bred guard dairy goats, horses, and other livestock, but they still have a lot of love to give to their human family. 

If you're looking for a dog that will love and guard your livestock AND your children (or you), see the link in bio to find out how to bring home your own snuggly and brave Prancing Pony Maremmas.
#ClientStories 
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories 
#prancingponyfarm #livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #maremma #pastoremaremmano #maremmano #maremmasmile #flockguardian #workingdog #snuggle #aww #maremmapuppy #kidsandpuppies #kidsanddogs #kidsandpets #ethicaldogbreeder #responsibledogbreeder #doglife
    Luke and Max are two of Circe and Sevro's pups from our July 2023 litter. They are sheep guardians in training. Here they are demonstrating why livestock guardian dogs should always work in pairs. 

This is normal puppy play behavior. Puppies need to play like this to be healthy and happy. An LGD puppy who doesn't have another puppy to play with will naturally try to play with the livestock it guards as it would another puppy. This can result in injured livestock and bad habits forming in the puppy. 

But punishing the puppy for trying to behave like a normal puppy is unfair and cruel. Instead you should have two puppies and they will be happy and less likely to treat your goats, sheep or chickens like a puppy!

We have a few of Luke and Max's littermates available. If you are looking for a pair of devoted, dependable, trustworthy LGDs like Luke and Max just put the word maremma in the comments and I’ll send you info on how you can bring home your very own adorable Prancing Pony Maremma pups! 💜🦮#ClientStories 
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories
    Well this is a first for Prancing Pony Farm - two of our Maremma Sheepdog pups went to a new home in Indiana where they will be guarding Macaws! The birds spend nice days in an outdoor aviary and need protection from predators. Sugar and Spice will be fantastic bird bodyguards! 

Their owner drove all the way from Indiana to pick the pups up and he brought along one of the birds to make the drive home with them. My mom owned several of these beautiful birds so it's really cool for me to have two of my pups be Macaw guardians. 💜

Whether you have tropical birds, chickens or anything else that needs protection, I’ve got you! Just put the word maremma in the comments and I’ll send you info on how you can bring home your very own Prancing Pony Maremma! 💜🦮 #ClientStories 
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories
    Meet Oliver, the excellent chicken guardian. Oliver is a dog from our first Maremma litter, born in 2017. When Oliver's owners came to me for an LGD, they had never bought a dog from a breeder because they strongly believed in rescuing dogs. However, they needed an LGD to protect their chickens on their 5-acre farm.
#LivestockGuardianDogs #ClientStories 
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories 

https://prancingponymaremmas.com/client-stories-oliver-the-excellent-chicken-guardian/
    Meet Oliver the excellent chicken guardian. Oliver is a dog from our first Maremma litter, born in 2017. When Oliver's owners came to me for an LGD they had never bought a dog from a breeder because they strongly believed in rescuing dogs. However, they needed a LGD to protect their chickens on their 5 acre farm. 

More importantly, they needed a dog to protect their children from human predators, including their special needs child, who was too trusting of strangers. They live near a busy highway and some parts of the property can't be seen from the house. They were worried that their girls might become prey to bad people driving by.

They were not going to trust their chickens or their precious children to a rescue dog with an unknown or questionable past. They needed a healthy, trustworthy, dependable dog with a sound body and a stable temperament to protect what they loved - their chickens and their children. So Oliver became their first ever dog bred by a breeder, their first Livestock Guardian Dog, and a beloved member of their family. 

Oliver's family has stayed in touch with me over the years, sending photos, videos and updates on him. He even goes camping with them, which is so cool! (He protects them from mountain lions on the trails.) They sometimes visit my farm to see new puppies. What they say about Oliver never changes. "We love that dog!" 

This video is a compilation of my two favorite videos of Oliver. The first part is when the family celebrated his first birthday. The second part is a few years later, of Oliver as a mature and trustworthy adult LGD. I never tire of watching these videos! 

I love seeing the beautiful, gentle LGD I bred. I love seeing how much his family adores him, and how devoted he is to them. 

This is why I breed Maremmas. To share the joy and peace of mind I get from my Maremmas with families like Oliver's family. 

If you are looking for a devoted, dependable, trustworthy LGD to protect what you love and to be your devoted companion, I can help. Just type maremma in the comments and I will send you info on how you can bring home your own Oliver. 💜🦮

#prancingponyfarm #maremmasheepdog #maremma #ClientStories
    Bear and Chief are two of our pups from our January 2023 litter. They guard a flock of around 300 free-range chickens in Texas. The boys are big proponents of sharing dinner with their chicken friends. 😆
#ClientStories #clientstories
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories #BearAndChief
#prancingponyfarm #livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #maremma #pastoremaremmano #maremmano #maremmasheepdogclubofamerica #herdguardian #maremmasmile #flockguardian #workingdog #chickens #chicken
    Bear and Chief are two of our Maremma pups who live on a 55-acre ranch in Texas, where they guard 300 free-range chickens and a small herd of cows for Dave and Susan. 

When they first went to their new home, they slept in a converted chicken run at night so they wouldn't stray too far from the house. Their first friend was Pearl the cow. 

Pearl loved her boys so much that she would wait by the gate in the morning, trying to bust her boys out. One day, Dave came outside to find the boys already out and hanging out with Pearl, and that was the end of sleeping in the chicken run!
#ClientStories #clientstories
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories #BearAndChief
#prancingponyfarm #livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #maremma #pastoremaremmano #maremmano #herdguardian #maremmasmile #flockguardian #workingdog #doglife #FarmLife #farmlife #chickens #chicken #chickencoop #cow #cows #cattle
    Two of our Washington pups, brothers Tofu and Toothpaste, demonstrate their recall skills after checking on the chickens and the kiddos down by the fence! The pups got their names from the kids, who thought those would be perfect names for white dogs. I agree. What do you think? 
#ClientStories #clientstories
#PuppyClientStories 
#HappyPuppyOwners 
#MaremmaSuccessStories
#prancingponyfarm #livestockguardiandog #maremmasheepdog #maremma #herdguardian #maremmasmile #clickertraining #kidsandpuppies #kidsanddogs #kidsandpets #dogsplaying #chase #zoomies #responsibledogbreeder #ethicaldogbreeder #puppysocialization

    Some of Our Pups and Their Happy Owners

    Ready to Protect Your Homestead Dreams?

    Join scores of happy families who sleep peacefully knowing their beloved animals are protected by reliable Prancing Pony Farm Maremmas.

    ✅ Health-tested bloodlines ✅ Proven working genetics ✅ Lifetime support included

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