Just make sure that they are not related !
Grammy, nothing wrong with inbreeding when done correctly. Not that is really matters in this case, just wanted to pull this out.
I am of this mindset as well, I know of so called "Top" breeders, who have all the proper answers, dogs are tested, show,compete etc.. But they live their lives in kennels, they often have a few special ones in their home, but many are in kennels and though they have great show attitudes many have serious temperament issues that don't show until they are in a traditional pet home.....
This is why, to me, there is no "perfect formula" for a good breeder. You need to take EVERYTHING into account. Just because a breeder has conformation, or even agility, titles, doesn't mean the dogs are worthy of being bred. This is why I urge everyone to KNOW YOUR BREEDER AND YOUR BREED! Don't go by face value, delve deeper, always.
Fran, I'm sorry if you feel attacked. I think it was just being pointed out that deafness does not equal perfect health. I know some people with well bred dogs who ended up deaf for whatever reason. They were speutered and not used for future breeding purposes. If they were considered to be in good health even with the deafness I know at least one of them would have been kept in that person's breeding program.
I'm sorry to hear she's having hearing problems
I'm sure the two of you will adjust accordingly. A smart dog is a smart dog, no matter what
GO:
An oops litter can happen, even to the best of breeders. I wouldn't necessarily say that this guy is a BYB just because this was an accident. BUT this is where you need to take into account the rest of it. You said he was planning on breeding this pair in the future anyway: did you ask what they offer? Exactly WHICH lines they are from, and if from different lines does the guy know how these lines have meshed in the past? Do you know the common health issues with these lines? This is all stuff I would ask about IF you are truly planning on getting a pup from this guy. I just always worry, especially with breeds like the GSD which are SO prone to health issues, and I don't want anyone to have to go through the heartbreak of having a sick dog (health or temperament-wise) if it can be prevented.