Breeders, how long did you show/work before you bred your first litter?

@Kimberly- She means how long did a breeder, or an owner, show/work their dogs (responsible breeders do this) before they bred their first litter. She says what she meant specifically in the question, lol.

For me, it was 8yrs. I had a few Tollers back then, I participated in every Dog Show, every Dog Event, every Trial <for this breed> I could. Starting when they let dogs in, at 6months old. After the dam and sire earned a lot of titles, etc.. I decided they represented the breed very well- looks, temperament, etc.. -wise. Plus, I was still doing a LOT of research when I got my first Tollers regarding breeding.

I have not bred a litter for a year. I cannot afford it, and my dam is retired. I kept a pup from their litter, who is working on her titles as we speak ^_^

I am not really sure what you are meaning. I do not show dogs but I used to rent from a breeder, and from what I learned there you should not bred before the 3rd heat. I do not agree with breeding for money but if it to keep a blood line of show dogs going that is a different matter as long as the entire litter will be found forever homes not just the one that will end up being showed.

I started training dogs in obedience at 5 years old -- naturally it was a well trained dog and pretty much was training me.

Through the years, I did a lot of performance events, and finally started to show conformation.

My first litter was when I was 40 years old.

I guess I waited pretty long.

17 years..... Now I HAVE seen lots of "5 yr wonders" come in as a novice and within 5 years they know more than those who've been around 20 yrs longer than them - have 3 litters in the next two years and are "outta dogs" at least competitively before they hit the 10yr mark... scary when the dogs live 15 yr!

I have been showing, working.titling, and learning about my breed (Rough Collie) for five years and have NO INTENTION of breeding anytime in the near future.( at least another 5 years or more).

I am enjoying learning and have access to wonderful breeders who can do all the hard work and I can reap the benefits.