When can I be considered a reputable breeder?

How many litters does a breeder have to have before being considered an experienced, good breeder?

They should have bred at least one good litter that they can brag on. This will gain them credibility.

They should have had at least one litter that looked great on paper, but turned out to be a disaster. This will teach humility.

They should have held (God forbid) at least one deformed puppy and wept as it slipped into the calm, silent quiet of death. This will provide the heart to be very careful to do everything possible to not see it again.

They should have studied the lines and the traits and the greats and the problems each has produced, and read all the books they can get their hands on. This will give them knowledge.

Last of all, they should consult the greats in the breed and never, never consider themselves to be experienced breeders. They are then - possibly, experienced breeders.