Most people have no idea what is involved in taking care of such a tiny dog.

The puppies we are referring to are usually the smallest of a normal litter. Many people call me and say they want the tinniest possible dog. I have to chuckle at some of the answers I get. A good breeder knows the very special care required and is willing to put out extra effort to care for the smallest of the litter. Sometimes the mother dog, busy with her stronger puppies, will ignore the weakest.

The first question I ask is why. The breeds are Yorkies, Maltese, Poodles, or Chihuahuas. Most tiny puppies even need special attention while they are with their mother.

There are supplemental feedings, concern about keeping the baby warm enough and making sure it eliminates properly and is kept clean. The adult size of these dogs is usually under 4 lbs. In nature or in the hands of an inexperienced breeder these puppies would never survive. I continue to interview these people and try to ascertain if such a small dog is really what they want or only what they think they want.

The problem begins when a prospective owner insists he or she knows exactly how to take care of the puppy.