My advice is follow your gut and be smart about it. Sounds like you are giving it serious thought, which is the first step in the right direction. It
is costly and trying, but the benefits are great too, IMO.
Are there any breeders in your area you could work with? A vet? Experience a whelp (or 2 or 3 or 4...
)? I can't tell you how greatful I was for that!
Good luck!