About

Samwise Australian Shepherds started in College Station, TX where I purchased my first Aussie from a Gail Karamalegos.  We started off showing in conformation and with the guidance of other local Aussie people I moved into competitive obedience as well.   At this point I dabble in agility, have tried my hand at stock, but primarily compete in conformation, obedience and rally.  Samwise is now located in Los Alamos, New Mexico, nestled at the base of the beautiful Jemez Mountain range.

I picked my kennel name long before breeding dogs was ever even a thought in my head. Samwise Gamgee of The Lord of the Rings embodied all I think these wonderful dogs are.  Loyal, kind, funny and above all, unconditional in their love.

My first encounter with an Aussie was in 1997 when I was boarding my horse with my riding instructor.  She had a lovely little black tri Aussie named Ona.  Ona made such a strong impression on both my husband and myself that when we decided to buy a dog, this is the breed we chose.  At the time we also had a border collie x Aussie mix and the Aussie traits were so strong that we knew how wonderful these dogs can be.

In 2001, after years of rescuing any dog that came across my path, I decided I wanted a hobby that involved dogs and that is how it started.   I will always be thankful for the people who have come before me in the breed.  I have been fortunate to have had the guidance of several knowledgeable people along the way.  Special thanks to Linda Phillips and her daughter Kate Johnson for the guidance they provided and for breeding the beautiful Jude, the foundation for Samwise.

Dogs are my life.  They are my family, they are my friends and have put me in the lives of many other amazing people.  Enjoy looking around.  If you have any questions feel free to email me…samwiseaussies@gmail.com

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The Most Interesting Man in the World

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Life is hard

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Snuggles

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Bed Buddies