I am not looking to show, I have a wonderful dog of a great breed and would like to find more and breed them. My guy cannot breed, but others can.
I just want dogs of good heritage and have them make puppies. There is something about new life!
That is why I have chickens and cats. The children haven’t started breeding yet, but at some point I expect them to wed and bed.
There are many different types of breeders, too. There are backyard breeders, who basically breed a dog to breed a dog and make some money.
There are conscientious breeders who breed to improve said breed, which includes a full range of tests such as OFA for hips/elbows and CERF, depending on breed. There's also a structure study of both bitch and stud to determine if temperament/physical attributes will either enhance the breed or possibly result in unwanted characteristic. Conscientious breeders also look into the history of a line, whether bitch or stud, to make sure there are no genetic issues or congential defects that have resulted in a breeding. Most of these breeders also have multiple titles for their bitch/stud that shows what they are capable of, whether its agility, herding, IPO, tracking, disc, etc. And they also offer a health guarantee in a contract that the puppy buyer signs (which more than likely includes a spay/neuter agreement to make sure lines are preserved).
Then, of course, there are puppy mills, who breed indiscriminately with no regard for history, lines, diseases, etc.
If you think your dog is awesome, I would challenge you to prove it. Earn some titles doing something, specifically CGC and Temperament Tests.
The breeder I know will tell you:
You will need at least 1 male, and several females, look for at least a male from a championship line, females too if you can afford it. Be sure they are all of good breeding. DO NOT over breed your females. 1 litter a year is enough. Which is why you need more than 1 female if you want to be a breeder. All should be AKC registered.
Learn to give puppy shots and worming, how to remove dew claws and dock tails if that is the breed you choose, well worth your time to do so. Cuts the Vets bills.
And a big back yard where you can establish a kennel that is properly heated and AC. And a run for the dogs to play in. This is not an in your house type of business.