[mojo]

Originally Posted by Ladyhawk

The truth is we're talking about size and not truly weight per say. When you are looking at whether a bitch should be able to free whelp the average size newborn yorkie or not you are looking for a pernium ( the space between the anus and the vulva) that measures about the size of the span of three fingers ( about 2 1/2 inches). The space between the pelvic bones should measure 2 fingers wide or about 2 inches. These minimum requirements usually correspond with the size of the average 5 pound yorkie. Breeding a bitch that is smaller than this not only risks her life because of c-sections and possible complications but increases the chance that her offspring will be too small in the pelvis to free whelp as well continuing the problem.

I agree. Excellent post!