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.

I have to chuckle at some of the answers I get. Most tiny puppies even need special attention while they are with their mother. Most people have no idea what is involved in taking care of such a tiny dog.

The adult size of these dogs is usually under 4 lbs. The puppies we are referring to are usually the smallest of a normal litter. The first question I ask is why.

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 breeds are Yorkies, Maltese, Poodles, or Chihuahuas. There are supplemental feedings, concern about keeping the baby warm enough and making sure it eliminates properly and is kept clean. In nature or in the hands of an inexperienced breeder these puppies would never survive.. Many people call me and say they want the tinniest possible dog.

Sometimes the mother dog, busy with her stronger puppies, will ignore the weakest.