If you want to become a breeder and you want to get started the right way then you need to apprentice with an experienced, reputable breeder.  Someone who will teach you about dog structure, temperament, health, breeding, whelping, training dogs (for show or otherwise), going to shows, paperwork, etc.   Since you're willing to wait a year or two before getting a dog then use that time wisely to learn hands-on from other breeders.  Attend dog shows regularly, talk with people. 

Everyone has their own opinions in dogs, each and every breeder you meet will think a little differently than all the others.  Learn about all these opinions, they will help you develope yours.  Listen, occasionally ask questions, but while you are getting to know these things do try to refrain from giving your own opinions, you will find that your opinions will change, constantly evolving. 

Before you do get any dogs that you plan to breed, first plan out your property, both indoors and outdoors where you will set up excerize/play yard(s), kennels, whelping, supply storage, grooming, etc. etc.   Get these things first, have your place set and ready before getting the dog(s). 

Start with a female.  Very, very, very few beginners are capable of starting with a male and doing well.  Top quality stud males require a lot more training, showing, campaigning, money, etc. to get them to a level where other reputable breeders want to use the dog for stud service.  Top stud males are for people who have a lot of money to start with and who will never expect to break even.   Making money on stud fees is for siegers and race horses. 


I was fortunate to work for a couple different breeders before I bought my first breeding dog.  Interestingly, none of the breeders I worked for had GSDs.  But these breeders were still among the best in the world in their breeds and I learned so much valuable lessons about dog breeding on the whole. 

Nah, just jump right in, and know no matter what, you'll make mistakes.  I learned what "type" I really prefered as I went along.  I don't think anyone could be expected to study the book cover to cover before ever even owning a dog.  You need one to train with anyway, to really learn "while doing it".  Then over time, as you are exposed to more dogs in your training group and at trials etc., you realize what characteristics you like in those dogs and what to avoid, what breeding they have in common with each other, the various methods of training that work for you, etc.  Just saying that to some extent, you need to jump in and get your feet wet.  And that goes for the simple practice of breeding as well.  Unless you're whelping, selling and training puppies FOR your "mentor", you have to do what's feasible at the moment, and aspire for improvement.  It took years to realize what kind of dog really liked and wanted to reproduce, and just when I was on the verge of leaving the breed in disgust.