Very well written Jilly - I have to agree with everything you have said. There are way too many people breeding litters without any prior knowledge of their own breed etc......My harsh view is that unless breeding to carry on your own lines for the show ring etc then dont breed at all - there are many dogs sat in rescue kennels right now who would love a warm fireside to lay beside - I feel there is no need to breed just for the hell of it or b'cos "shes such a sweet dog I want to let her have a go at beeing a mum" etc etc...