I'm not sure I mentioned this but, there is a library filled with information; some of which is information on breeding.

However, if one is thinking about breeding, YT is not the place to get educated from. The only place a potential breeder should obtain their information from is a mentor. One that is well educated in the breed that one has chosen. These mentors will guide in the right direction; classes to take, seminars to attend as well as teaching you everything about your chosen breed.

By your question, we figured out that was the direction you were heading. I'm glad you're rethinking it. It's not something that one enters into lightly.
So many things to contemplate, to prepare for......the biggest is settling in your head that even with the best of plans and precautions you may lose your girl or the litter or all.

Mardelin - THANK YOU!!! I love my dogs and would never ever want anything to happen to them. Thank you again for setting me straight.

My intention is not to deter anyone from breeding, but inform those that want to, that there is a right way.....the road is long and hard....there is no short cuts. And as another YT member and fellow YTCA member says; if you want a short cut, go to a barber.

Thank you for being one of those that listens and has the best interest of the breed at heart.

I think "Featured Breeder" section may get confused by others and is only a place where the breeder pays $75.00 for a year to be in this section. I do not think it is an area where YT recommened these breeders.

So you still need to be aware that these breeders in this section, still need to be researched before buying.

Very glad to read that you have "seen the light";) Nothing wrong with wanting to breed, if it's gone about the proper way, with all the research, mentoring, and testing, etc. I used to think that's what I wanted to do, until I read more here and decided that neither my heart nor my bank account could deal with being a good breeder:laugh: To do it properly, with the least amount of risk to the dogs, one must spend a buttload of money and there is a lot of worry and stress involved. The first time a puppy didn't make it, I'd have been a basketcase and probably lost my mind:p

I do agree that sometimes the essential message is lost due to posts being too abrupt and somewhat unfriendly, but honestly, some folks won't listen to the advice and have a counter-reason for every reason why they shouldn't breed, and voice those counter-reasons in a not-so-nice manner. That seems to have led to the kid gloves coming off sooner, unfortunately:( Patience has been worn thin on some of these great folks that are always willing to lend a hand, and frankly I don't blame them. It's terrible to see what's happening to the breed that we all love so much!

Oh, by the way, do you have pics posted of your furkids, we all love pictures:D!!!! Glad you've joined the forum and hope that a few "short" replies won't discourage you from being an active member here:love:

You are absolutely right.:thumbup: It's a bit misleading though for newer people who don't realize that though. I actually remember someone buy a pup once under questionable circumstances and justifying it because the breeder was a 'featured breeder' here, so they must be the best. :(

I've always wondered about that.

I have found this post to be extremely helpful. I have 2 yorkie puppies. They will be 6 months old come the end of the month. I have always kept spaniels and although I had 2 bitches and an entire dog I always had plans in place for when my girls came into season. Now however I realise I'm dealing with a whole new level of wily. I just can't decide what one to book in first for the op. I have always been told to let them mature before a spay/neuter.

Spaying before their first heat is best. I would do them both at the same time.

Yes. After thinking about it I decided its best to do both at the same time. People ask me a lot if i'm going to breed them but I've always believed that breeding should be left to those who know whats for the best. The last thing i want is an accidental pregnancy for my girl so I'm calling our vet tomorrow to book them in. Thank you for your advice.

Great that you are leaving the breeding up to the experts. For health reasons spaying before their first heat is the best thing to do. At 6 months old they can come into heat soon. I had big females, weights as adults ranged from 9 pounds 2 at 13lbs and one at 17 pounds. They all came into heat about 6 1/2 months old.

So happy you saw the light.