No Sir had more than 3 at time but started with 3, rebuilt using 3.
There have been may of times over the years I would cull down to 3 .
More than once all the way down to one Hicks Cross Fire.
Then I had gotten 3 females but only used 2.
Flame & Key Key . One male & 2 females. 3.
I would breed 2 dogs & keep the whole litter or at least 2 pups from each litter .
Once I did that than one or both parents could go.
Breed 2 keep 2, let go of 2.
3 steps. LOL.
If I had kept the whole litter I would work my way down to the best one or two.
As of now I got rid of all males except one male & two prospects males a total of 3 males.
I have some females but only use 2 with one on stand by . Once again 3.
I did a breeding & plan on keeping one female & best 2 males from that litter .
3.
it's what I do & used to doing.
Just my way .
Here's website for more info.
http://www.freewebs.com/ruffcuctt/hicksdogs.htm