RE: Evaluating pups in a litter
Ideally you want a dog that is bright, has a lot of initiative and boldness but is not inclined to contest leadership. If you can't be there I would let the breeder make the choice of the best pup for your situation and status as amatuer trainer. Unless having a female will actually cause a problem, I would let him pick from all the dogs, it greatly increases your odds of a good dog.