Simon, I understand where you are coming from regarding the internet. Many very reputable breeders do have wonderful websites, and this could be a great starting point, once you have confirmed that they show their dogs, are members of CKCS clubs, AKC/UKC, etc, AND closely follow their health and breeding protocol, etc. I think that the key red flags on the disreputable sites are pictures of cute puppies, many times in all four colors and sexes, available NOW. Some of them make comments such as, "We are very careful where we place our precious pups" and then they provide a basic "application" which really means nothing, and then go on to give a one or two year "health guarantee." This is basically worthless to a new owner who has become head over heels in love with their puppy. They know that people rarely return a puppy with health problems.
My breeder has a wonderful site, consisting of a wealth of information on the breed and how to go about locating a reputable breeder. She also states on her site that she NEVER has puppys available RIGHT NOW, and that the wait could be up to a year, assuming she decides you are worthy of properly caring for one of her precious pups. This is the difference between someone who is advertising to make a fast buck, and someone who breeds for the love of these dogs.