Hello,
I was a breeder,owner, handler of different breeds here in the USA. Here are some questions to ask yourself for what you want in your next pup. I am just trying to help you pick the best pup for your family. I also had a rare breed.
1. How calm is he, will he be able to be trained to walk beside a wheelchair? Can he be trained and used as a service dog?? That way he can go EVERYWHERE with your DH and you. It will also make it when you travel he goes too.
2. Ask the breeder if he is a show/ breeding quality male. Why or why not? You need to know the strengths and weaknesses of each dog. If he not then nuter him(no matter how rare the breed.) Talk to the breeder about this.
You might not end up with the flashy one, but you will get the one that for a your family's needs. Remember to talk to the breeder with all that you have posted here. How Lin has he been a breed of OES?? How well do his dogs do in the show ring? Does he have any that are working dogs?
I know this is a long post, but you do need the ansers to all these questions and more. How about OFA on hips, what all test are recommended for OES??? Heart, eye, hips, I am not familiar with them but will go to the parent club here in USA to check for you.
PM me if you have any questions. Just tryin to help you and your family get the best pup possible.
Maye