I would recommend that you talk to several people. Get a feel for what lines carry what you like. Go to some obedience trials and see some dogs in the ring working. If you like what you see, ask the owner where they got them / what their lines are. You'll know what you like for you.
I've also found that good breeders - knowing that there is a good home out there for an obedience prospect, will refer owners to other good breeders. That's how I found my boy - through a wonderful network that I'll be forever in debt to.
Things to keep in mind:
1) If COE standards are important to you, only look at COE breeders. Go to clubs that have a COE and take a look at their listings.
2) Go to shows and trials, get a feel for what you like. The more you ask about specific lines, the more contacts you'll be able to make.
3) If all of the health checks are important to you, get them - don't compromise.
4) There is no reason, what so ever, to breed a dog BEFORE it has qualified to be bred (be it for health, show or work). LOTS of people are more than willing to say "Oh he'll finish easily", "He's got HIT written all over him." or "He's healthy as a horse.". But if they can't prove it with titles or certificates, they aren't ready. There is no reason for it to happen, when there are SO many dogs out there that are MORE than qualified to go to.
5) Be sure that you are completely comfortable and at ease with the breeder, their spouse and all of their dogs. They'll be your extended family - for better or for worse for the next 12 years. Be 100% sure.
Most of all, be realistic in what you want. Then be specific about it. Write it down if need be. If for any reason you are being asked to compromise anything on the list, move on. That puppy that you have described on your list is out there - I promise.
