Aussie Sheppard

Question
I have been given a 3yr old female red merle that is not spade, she weights 8lbs and is in very good health. She has such a good disposition that my whole family loves and wants one. First, is it okay because she is so small? Second, what is the normal litter size? and Third what color can I breed her with, if it is okay. I have five family members that want one and are willing to have the new ones spade or neutered.
I would love any help in these matters.
Thank you

Answer
No, it's not OK, UNLESS you can be sure the pup doesn't come from a puppy mill herself (chances are that she does, because very very few breeders of "downsized" dogs are doing it reputably).  Pet owners should not become breeders, because that takes a lot of knowledge about health, genetics, and ETHICS.  I don't mean to be blunt, but having been involved in Aussie rescue for so long, I can't imagine why anyone would just want to breed casually from a gene pool that is very small, and frought with many health risks, such as hypothyroidism, eye anomalies, epilepsy, hip dysplasia, etc.  It's unethical to breed any parent dog without testing for all those things first, and that costs hundreds and hundreds of dollars.  If you cannot find your own dog's parents' tests in the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation) then you should not breed your dog.  Have her spayed and tell your family to do some more homework before buying from a disreputable breeder or an Internet or other puppy mill.  Either that or tell them to get plenty of pet insurance;-))  
By the way, the fact that your dog has a good disposition is great, but not an ultimate guarantee that her puppies would.  Much is dependent upon good socialization and training.  Also, if you do not know about the so called "lethal white" Aussies (from merle to merle breedings),  please read up on that.  If you are intent upon breeding your dog, which I do not recommend for a variety of reasons, then please attend shows or agility events and find a good Aussie person to mentor under.  This should NOT be a casual enterprise.  If you can't see your way clear to do that, please have your bitch spayed.