[FlDebra]

Co-ownership is not the same as brokering. Some do it because they are working hard on improving their lines. Unfortunately, you cannot tell what you have until they are grown, and then producing progeny of their own. A large breeder may feel they have too many to handle with the kind of individualized attention they deserve. I don't think there would be anything unethical to bring another person into the picture who would be proud to be sort of a foster-mom for the dog. Some co-own for show purposes too. Helps with logistics. Sometimes it is a way for a novice to get in on good lines. A breeder may offer a co-ownership until they see how the new owner shows and represents the line. I am passing along what I have read, as I don't have any experience with it myself.