Everything You Need to Know About the Colorado Mountain Dog
With so many unique dog breeds, choosing the right breed to adopt can be difficult. If you’re looking for a friendly and protective pup that loves having a job to do, a Colorado Mountain Dog might be the perfect fit for you. Whether you’re considering adding a Colorado Mountain Dog to your home or just want to learn more, here’s everything you need to know about this breed.
Origin and History of Colorado Mountain Dogs
The Colorado Mountain Dog (CMD) was created in 2005 by Wendy Francisco, who lived on a small farm in Colorado. After losing her livestock to predators, Wendy began researching livestock guardian dogs to find a breed that could protect her animals. However, she struggled to find any existing breeds in the area that fit what she was looking for. Many breeds with protective instincts also had genetic issues and aggression toward strangers.
After talking to many nearby farmers, she realized that many other people had a similar dilemma and that there was a need for a new dog breed that was both friendly and a protective guardian. Wendy then acquired Caspian, a crossbred livestock guardian dog that was a mix of Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepherd. Caspian was a natural guardian but also calm and welcoming to strangers, which is a rare trait in most livestock guardian dogs.
Caspian’s wonderful qualities inspired Wendy to selectively breed him with other dogs that shared these traits. The result was a dog breed with both a strong instinct to guard livestock and a friendly, loving nature. Over the years, the breed continued to develop and become more popular. Today, the Colorado Mountain Dog is well-loved and recognized for its intelligence, loyalty, and impressive guarding abilities.
Quick Facts About This Breed
- Height: 30-34 inches (male) and 26-29 inches (female)
- Weight: 110-150 lbs (male) and 80-120 lbs (female)
- Colors: White, fawn, and brown
- Coat: Dense and wavy; warm coat sheds seasonally into a thinner coat
- Grooming: Regular brushing and grooming needed; shedding coat
- Temperament: Alert, outgoing, protective, and good with children
Caring For A Colorado Mountain Dog
Caring for a Colorado Mountain dog is relatively easy, especially during the winter. However, these breeds still require some attention to their grooming and exercise needs. Colorado Mountain Dogs have a thick, medium-length coat that requires regular care, especially during shedding season. Grooming a CMD in the winter is pretty straightforward—owners mainly need to brush their pup’s coat once a week. In the summertime, this breed sheds their winter undercoat. During this process, owners should brush their furry friend daily. Giving these pups occasional baths is also an essential aspect of keeping their coat clean.
Although this breed isn’t hyperactive, CMDs are energetic pups that need consistent exercise. Pups who work on a farm or ranch typically get plenty of exercise just through their daily activities and responsibilities. However, if you get a CMD as a companion dog, they’ll need plenty of planned exercise. Regular walks, areas to roam freely, and mental stimulation will keep these dogs happy and healthy.
Personality Traits of Colorado Mountain Dogs
Colorado Mountain Dogs are known for their calm and gentle nature, making them a family favorite breed. They are loyal and affectionate pups that form strong bonds with their human family members. Despite their protective instincts, they are exceptionally patient and kind, even with young children. Their friendly demeanor also extends to visitors, though they will not hesitate to protect their family and livestock if they sense danger.
Colorado Mountain Dogs have strong instincts to protect their property and loved ones but are not aggressive and don’t bark excessively. Owners will often see their pup quietly roaming the perimeter of the property and watching over livestock. Although these pups have a quiet and calm personality, they’re always alert and on a mission. Their mellow yet alert presence is the best of both worlds, making them excellent guardians for families or animal owners.
The Colorado Mountain Dog is a great breed for anyone looking for a devoted, hardworking, and loving dog. Whether you need a guardian for your livestock or a gentle companion for your family, CMDs are up to the task. With the right space, training, and care, they make wonderful pets and loyal protectors.
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