I have an 18 month old bitch with a top pedigree, she has her hip scores done and they are well below the breed average (origionally done to help me know what to expect when she's older) and has recently recieved a clear eye test. She is in season at the minute, her third, and i was thinking of mating her on her next season to a top stud dog.
Is it frowned upon to breed from anything thats is not shown? I have it on very good authority ( a show judge) that she is a very good example of the breed and she is in perfect health but would it be ok?
Your opinions would be of great help,
Sara

As long as she has been assessed by several people who are knowledgeable about your breed and they all agree that she is worth breeding from (and aren't just being polite!), and you have studied pedigrees and seen the various possible stud dogs in the flesh, and also the quality of the puppies they have already sired, then all should be well.

Sara join us here, there are many experienced folk here who can also offer help and adivice.
If experienced owners of the breed you have have all said she is a good example of the breed, then it should be OK. Once she has finished her season, why not try showing her a bit? You could go to ringcraft classes, and have a lot of fun too. By going to the shows you will see plenty of stud dogs and meet other breeders who will I am sure be happy to help you with good advice.