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 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. Many people call me and say they want the tinniest possible dog. In nature or in the hands of an inexperienced breeder. The adult size of these dogs is usually under 4 lbs. Sometimes the mother dog, busy with her stronger puppies, will ignore the weakest.

I have to chuckle at some of the answers I get. There are supplemental feedings, concern about keeping the baby warm enough and making sure it eliminates properly and is kept clean. Most tiny puppies even need special attention while they are with their mother.

The breeds are Yorkies, Maltese, Poodles, or Chihuahuas. The puppies we are referring to are usually the smallest of a normal litter. Most people have no idea what is involved in taking care of such a tiny dog.

The first question I ask is why.