[Kbsqueff]

Originally Posted by Franceen

My little Tootsy was a little under 7lbs when I got her (at 3 yrs old). When I took her for her first vet visit, the vet said she was underweight and could feel her ribs too easily. She wanted her to put on 2 to 3 pounds. She now weighs just over 9lbs and has actually grown a lot, as well as fattened up a bit. She looks so much healthier. Her coat is better, too. I wondered if the previous owners had kept her at the standard weight because it was considered the right weight for the breed and for Showing? This concerns me.

I just don't understand this thing about the size of a Yorkie. I am not a show person - not really my interest, so keeping her to a show size would not be an issue. But it seems to be more than just the Show size. People want that cute puppy look forever without really considering what health problems may arise as a result. Isn't this a bit immature? I feel we should enjoy our dogs as puppies and then as adults. It is a dangerous fashion too, IMHO. I actually feel more relaxed about Tootsy's new size, she looks so healthy and is much stronger too. The increase in strength was really noticeable. She can wriggle out of your arms in no time now, if she wants too! Not so good when you are trying to groom, brush her teeth etc!! Also, I now would feel a little less worried if she needed surgery etc. My baby's health and longevity means SO much more to me than looking like a cute puppy. I think she looks cute as anything, anyway, but now some people comment on her size in a derogatory way!!?? Before when she was smaller and underweight everyone commented on how cute she was, it now seems to some people, that she is now too big to be a proper Yorkie and somehow this isn't good??? HUH?!! What is this craziness!!?? My dog is beautiful, healthy and adorable.

I certainly don't mean to offend anyone, so please don't take offense. I would hate that, as it is not meant. A tiny puppy must be SO difficult to resist and thinking of possible health problems must vanish from your mind!! I do understand that - I really do. I just feel that perhaps we should start to think a little more about a dog's ultimate health than their size? I believe the original Yorkie was a far bigger dog, so why isn't it being judged for it's original breed size? When did it change, I wonder? Eg. if someone started breeding smaller and smaller German Shepherds would they change the standard then? Just my thoughts and opinions and please remember I am not, not, not meaning to offend. I think the people on this forum are the greatest.

Luv

Franceen xx

No offence taken... And I know where you coming from... some ppl seem to live in a neverending contest of "who has the most tiny pup" and don't give a s**t about the pups health and well being as long as they can brag around how tiny it is This is totally ridiculous IMO.
When I got my furbabies I wasn't concerned about their sizes, I just wanted they were healthy, and thank goodness they don't have major health issues.