[Mardelin]

Remember, testing for Liver Shunt only tells you if the dog you are testing does not have it, it does not tell you whether or not the dog is a carrier or not.

So, many factors go into breeding....testing eyes for Progessive Retinal Atrophy, Heart, x-raying legs for Leggs Perthes, checking for Luxating Patellas, ears tested, etc.

Healthy, good representation of the breed, within standard and with a good temperament and an excellent Pedigree.

You state that she has wanted to breed her female for years, how old is the female? If she hasn't been bred before the age of 3, it shouldn't be done.

Now that is only the beginning.....there are tests for Sexually Transmitted Diseases that need to be performed on the breeding dogs. Nutrition for the dam, possible whelping problems that may require emergency vetenarian intervention ($$$$$$). Countless of hours of taking care of mother and babies, no sleep for the breeder. Shots, training, socializing puppies, vet checks. Finding preapproved homes for those puppies to insure they won't end up in shelters (this should be done before the breeding ever takes place). Being prepared to take those puppies back if somehow the new owners don't want them. Being prepared to financially assit new owners with vet care should a pup have a genetic defect.....

Yes, you are right it's not easy and it is a great responsibility that shouldn't be entered into without a great deal of education and preparedness.