I have to reply that I have two mentors....I have only been breeding yorkies for 3 years... Retired out of Mini Pins after several years of this breed, Just because I loved the Yorkies and there temperment. I still love the Mini Pins don't get me wrong. But research, research and more reseach on your breed, know what is excepted of your breed... No matter how much you think you know, you will always learn more if you keep a open mind to what other breeders offer up with suggestions. Being a part of a forum like YT can bring some valueable information. What I think is one of the most important part of breeding is to know that your breed (no matter what breed they are) is providing you a service, so you must provide them a service as well. Caring for them is the most important and their well-being. Making sure they are happy and healthy and are still getting a quality life....
Not to be stuck in a row of cages with one purpose.
They have feelings and need us to care for them in a very loving way.... This is a 24/7, 365 day a year job... It can be very rewarding and heartbreaking as well... You must be very committed. I am not saying the that watching genetics, standards and all the rest of breeding isn't important, so please don't take this post wrong.... I just think the welfare of your breeders is as important....
And yes mentors are very important.... they have offered me a lot of good information and have helped me tremendously. Be prepared for expenses...breeding can be very expensive. Waking a Vet at 2.00 am isn't cheap.... Be perpared to retire your breeders if they aren't producing good quality off spring or bring in a hereditary disease that they or their parents didn't show in previous breedings. Okay I will stop I get very passionate about breeding and start to ramble and ramble, sorry...
