As a new breeder myself, I have so much more respect for those who have done it for years. My mother-in-law raised and bred yorkies for years and I learned a lot of things from her.
As with my female's first litter, it has been an exhausting and rewarding and emotional ride (which is why I will probably breed again in around 2 years or so). But I feel I have been blessed with such a wonderful experience. I did so much research, then did some more!!! Then, when the time came, I still learned so much from the experience itself. You can do all the research, but until you experience, it's not the same.
I'm so thankful for my husband's and mother-in-law's guidance and support!
And as of recently, everyone's support here after losing 1 of the 5 puppies from this litter. You all have helped me become a better breeder and owner!
I've had people ask me why I chose to breed my pets, and I reply, "to better the standards and the temperament of the breed. But it is also because I know there are so many people out there who love yorkshires (and animals in general) as much as I do and I want to spread the love."