[deonk1]

It's sad that you were afraid to post on here. While there are many strong minded people on here, at the end of the day, I'd be happy to help you if you get this little guy, as I'm sure many others will.

There are a few positives with the whole situation: (1) you're not purchasing from a pet store which I would agree with the many who believe this is an absolute no no. (2) 8 weeks is the norm for many other breeds, if you said the pup was coming earlier than that, then I'd agree with the huge red flags. If the vet is okaying them to come home that early, then I recommend that you personally find another vet, don't use him because they probably do not specialized in small breeds. My boy came home at 9 weeks and he was fine. NOW not that I completely condone the whole pups coming early thing, I just happened to have a breeder who worked hard to assure the pups were ready. So I recommend you get some books and start researching how you can prepare yourself to deal with your little guy. He will be fragile and will likely start to bite you if you are not prepared to teach him what his mom should have. Also ask your breeder what she does to prepare the pups to come home, maybe it's not as bad as it sounds.

My breeder allows each pup to have some quality one-on-one time each day in the livingroom with momma (one the pups are old enough to play) this way they learn in a group and individual setting. She started potty training them and starts desensitizing them to various things. They've had their first shots, have been bathed and groomed several times up to this point (now of course you can only do so much, but essentially getting them used to their ears and paws and teeth being handled. I would ask your breeder if she does any of these things so that you know exactly what needs to be done when you get your guy home. Any things she doesn't do, you should be prepared to start slowly but immediately so that your little guy gets used to them. (careful when bathing, you don't want to over bathe, or use too strong of products, etc, also watch you don't get waters in their ears it can cause an infection)

When you get your little guy home remember that he's tiny and very fragile. BUT he's not stupid. He's actually going to be REALLY smart, so it's your job to educate him immediately, before he outsmarts you.

At the end of the day, remember these two pieces of advise. (1) now you know the proper information and can be prepared when you get this little guy a sibling some day, you'll know how and where to find a good breeder, and honestly I've heard of much worse breeders out there. (2) Take any and all information on here with a grain of salt. Some people genuinely know what they're talking about, some are know it alls who don't and some are here to support and aid you on your journey. IT IS YOUR DECISION WHAT TYPE OF DOG OWNER YOU WANT TO BE so long as you are loving and not ignorant (which your general concern shows you're not) you fit the bill in my books.

Good luck with your baby. Please keep us posted.