The Yorkshire Terrier is a tiny breed with a big personality that likes to live life in the fast lane! Full of energy, the breed is known for its playful, loving nature. So, getting their nutrition just right is essential if you are to support their happy and healthy lifestyle.
A general dog food won’t necessarily give the Yorkie all the nutrition they require as they need a balance of calories, protein, and carbs specifically tailored to a smaller breed. So, if you are unsure what you should be feeding your mini pooch then read on, as we bring you a selection of the best dog food for Yorkies.
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Key Takeaways:
- As a toy breed, the Yorkshire Terrier has specific nutritional requirements to support their high energy levels
- They need a higher calorie diet with a balance of quality animal protein, carbs, fiber, and good fats
- Yorkies can be food sensitive, so a limited ingredient diet is a good consideration
- The best dog food for Yorkies needs to cater to their small mouth and teeth, so look for either wet dog food or small dry kibble that they can easily chew and digest
- Small breed puppies need more calories than senior dogs, who may need a higher amount of protein
- To help sustain their energy levels, Yorkies often do better on several small meals a day
10 Best Dog Foods for Yorkies
1 Best for Adult Yorkies: ORIJEN Regional Red Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
- Brand: ORIJEN
- Allergens: Pea starch
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, Wild Boar, Goat, Lamb, Lamb Liver
- Primary proteins: Beef
- Calories: 463 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Raw meat
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Adult
All adult dogs need premium protein for optimum health, and the Yorkie is no different. In fact, with their raised energy levels and faster working metabolism, you should strive to get the very best protein you can.
With Orijen’s Regional Red range, the focus is on whole prey nutrition which also includes nutrient-rich organs. The result is a delicious raw food style to give your adult Yorkie a minimum of 38% crude protein.
There are also enough calories to sustain an adult Yorkie, and this blend has all the essential vitamins and minerals they need for good health. Natural and tasty, this is perfect for your adult Yorkie carnivore!
For more options head over to our complete review of Orijen dog food.
Beef, Wild Boar, Goat, Lamb, Lamb Liver, Beef Liver, Beef Tripe, Wild Boar Liver, Mutton, Whole Mackerel, Pork, Goat Meal, Beef Meal, Lamb Meal, Mackerel Meal, Whole Red Lentils, Whole Pinto Beans, Beef Kidney, Pork Liver, Herring Meal, Mutton Meal, Whole Green Peas, Whole Green Lentils, Whole Navy Beans, Whole Chickpeas, Natural Pork Flavor, Beef Fat, Pollock Oil, Pork Kidney, Lentil Fiber, Pea Starch, Whole Yellow Peas, Lamb Tripe, Wild Boar Heart, Dried Kelp, Whole Pumpkin, Whole Butternut Squash, Collard Greens, Whole Apples, Whole Pears, Zinc Proteinate, Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Dried Chicory Root, Turmeric, Sarsaparilla Root, Althea Root, Rosehips, Juniper Berries, Citric Acid (Preservative), Rosemary Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product.
- Mirrors the wild carnivore diet so high in quality animal proteins
- A tasty raw formula that is easy to digest
- For all this raw meat quality you pay a premium price
2 Best Yorkie Puppy Food: Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed Dry Dog Food
- Allergens: Egg, dried yeast
- First 5 ingredients: chicken, chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), cracked pearled barley
- Primary proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 453 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken and rice
- Type: Dry food
- Life stage: Puppy
The Yorkie puppy is a turbo toy breed that needs diet to keep him healthy, growing, and on the go. Specifically formulated for small breeds, this dry formula from Diamond Naturals is one of the best puppy foods you can buy. With cage-free chicken and chicken meal, it is grain and additive-free, boosted by dog-friendly probiotics for a happy tum.
Add in quality carbs in the form of selected fruit and veg and you have that all-important sustained energy release. Plus, you get DHA fatty acids, which are crucial to a little pup’s eye and cognitive development as well as a healthy coat. Packaged in extra small kibbles for little hungry mouths, this is a puppy food to get your Yorkie puppies excited about.
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Ground White Rice, Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Cracked Pearled Barley, Egg Product, Dried Yeast, Dried Beet Pulp, Fish Meal, Ground Miscanthus Grass, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil (Source Of Dha), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Kale, Chia Seed, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Oranges, Quinoa, Dried Kelp, Coconut, Spinach, Carrots, Papaya, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Beta Carotene, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
- The small kibble size is ideal for hungry little mouths
- High levels of quality protein for essential calories and nutrients
- The recipe does contain grain
3 Best for Senior Yorkies: Nutro Natural Choice Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
- Brand: Nutro
- Allergens: Tomato pomace, dried egg
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, whole grain barley, split peas, brewers rice
- Primary proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 320 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken and ground brown rice
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Senior
As your Yorkie ages, his food needs to match his energy levels while supplying all the essential nutrients a more senior dog needs. And with Nutro’s Natural Choice for senior small breeds, he’ll also get the taste to keep his appetite on point.
With a delicious chicken and brown rice recipe boosted by chicken meal, this formula is corn, wheat, and soy-free. And it includes essential antioxidants to boost immune health. The managed calorie level works well for a less active dog but still contains 26% protein to keep their muscles lean. Added calcium supports their bones while quality carbs sustain energy release so your older pooch can enjoy their day.
Check out some more options in our review of the top-rated senior dog food.
Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Barley, Split Peas, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Rice Bran, Whole Grain Oatmeal, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Citric Acid (preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (preservative), Chia Seed, Dried Coconut, Dried Tomato Pomace, Dried Egg Product, Dried Pumpkin, Dried Kale, Dried Spinach, DL-Methionine, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Sodium Selenite, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), D-Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Biotin, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Manganous Oxide, Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
- Lower calorie, tasty chicken recipe supports a less active older dog
- Added calcium and antioxidants for joint and immune system health
- You need to transition your dog slowly to this dog food, especially if they have digestive sensitivities
4 Best with Grains: Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Adult Turkey & Oatmeal Recipe
- Brand: Wellness
- Allergens: Tomato pomace, pea
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned turkey, chicken meal, salmon meal, oatmeal, ground brown rice
- Primary proteins: Turkey, chicken, salmon
- Calories: 408 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Turkey and oatmeal
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Adult
Whole grains can benefit your little dog by providing essential nutrients as well as fiber. Wellness uses the most appropriate grains in their Small Breed Complete formula so that it’s easily tolerated by your pup. Oatmeal is the primary grain to sustain your pet’s energy levels throughout the day. Plus, there are no artificial additives, fillers, or meat by-products, just quality wholesome goodness.
Lean turkey is the main protein source, which is rich in taurine for heart health, while the recipe includes omega fatty acids from salmon meal, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics as well as essential vitamins and minerals.
Together this tasty dry dog food covers all the core health bases and could make excellent everyday dog food for your adult Yorkshire terrier.
Deboned Turkey, Chicken Meal, Salmon Meal, Oatmeal, Ground Brown Rice, Barley, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Oats, Tomato Pomace, Tomatoes, Pea Fiber, Ground Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Natural Chicken Flavor, Carrots, Spinach, Potassium Chloride, Sweet Potatoes, Blueberries, Apples, Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols added to preserve freshness, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Calcium Carbonate, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Vitamin A Supplement, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Chondroitin Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract, Green Tea Extract, Spearmint Extract.
- Slow-release oatmeal supports sustained energy release
- Added omegas, probiotics, and glucosamine
- Contains grains so can be a little too much for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs
5 Best for All Life Stages: CANIDAE All Life Stages Chicken Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Canidae
- Allergens: Peas, alfalfa meal
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken meal, turkey meal, ground brown rice, peas, oatmeal
- Primary proteins: Chicken and turkey meal
- Calories: 506 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken, turkey, and lamb
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: All
Busy dog owners appreciate convenience and quality, and with Canidae All Life Stages you get just that. Designed for the nutritional needs of dogs of all ages, this dry food formula can be given to both Yorkie puppies as well as adult dogs.
With chicken, turkey, and lamb at the heart of this toy breed recipe, there’s a good amount of protein (a minimum of 24%) to support your pet’s energy and general good health. However, this pedigree dog food is on the high side in calories so you need to be mindful of quantities, especially when feeding a senior or less active pet.
Free of the most common allergens such as soy, corn, and wheat, this recipe is not totally grain-free but it does contain probiotics for a healthy tum. Add in all the antioxidants, good fats, vitamins, and minerals you would expect from this brand, and this is a good option for the multi-Yorkie-owning household.
Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Oatmeal, Barley, Whole Grain Sorghum, Lentils, Suncured Alfalfa Meal, Chicken Fat, Flaxseed, White Rice, Lamb Meal, Salmon Oil, Natural Flavor, Salt, Threonine, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Choline Chloride, Mixed Tocopherols (A Preservative), Tryptophan, Zinc Sulfate, Dl-Methionine, Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Calcium Pantothenate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Vitamin A Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Zinc Proteinate, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product.
- Formulated for all life stages so a convenient choice if you have more than one Yorkshire terrier
- The higher calories mean you need to be mindful of appropriate quantities for each pet
6 Best Dog Food for Picky Yorkie: Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Grain-Free Recipe
- Brand: Instinct
- Allergens: Tomato pomace, egg
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, chickpeas, tapioca, chicken fat
- Primary proteins: Chicken
- Calories: 469 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Adult
It can be worrying if you are the pet parent of a picky eater. And, as Yorkies are known to be fussy around their food bowl, it’s important to find dog food that catches their attention.
Based on the raw diet concept, Instinct Raw Boost’s small breed formula is a mealtime winner and one of the best foods for Yorkies. Plus, it offers a delicious nutrition hit so you know your pup is getting all the goodness as well as taste they need.
Combining kibble with freeze-dried raw protein, this recipe uses whole chicken with limited carbs, fruits, and vegetables. Added into the mix is a healthy cocktail of minerals and vitamins, including calcium and phosphorus as well as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. Live probiotics and natural omegas complete the recipe, just leaving your picky pooch to discover his food bowl once more.
Chicken, Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate), Chickpeas, Tapioca, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Turkey Meal, Herring Meal, Peas, Freeze Dried Chicken, Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Coconut Oil, Salt, Pumpkinseeds, Potassium Chloride, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Egg Product, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Montmorillonite Clay, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Choline Chloride, Dried Kelp, Salmon Oil, Blueberries, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.
- Freeze-dried meat topper adds a flavor boost to entice your fussy canine
- Balanced nutrition with all the essential vitamins and minerals
- All this raw goodness comes at a price, putting it at the premium end of the budget
7 Best Value: Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Dog Food
- Brand: Taste of the Wild
- Allergens: Tomato pomace, egg
- First 5 ingredients: Venison, lamb meal, garbanzo beans, peas, lentils
- Primary proteins: Venison
- Calories: 422 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Venison and garbanzo beans
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Adult
Your Yorkie is a wild canine at heart, so this small breed kibble from Taste of the Wild could be the one to satisfy his appetite. And also keep your wallet happy.
Pasture-raised venison is the number one ingredient, along with duck, lamb, and ocean fish, to create a high-protein dog food. And, as it’s grain-free, this is a good choice for Yorkies with allergies or sensitive tums.
As well as all that protein, you also get a blend of superfoods, including chicory root, blueberries, and raspberries, to boost the nutrient quota. Add in antioxidants, K9 strain probiotics, and omega fatty acids, and this is a nutrient-rich, tasty diet for your mini.
Venison, Lamb Meal, Garbanzo Beans, Peas, Lentils, Pea Protein, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Egg Product, Duck Meal, Pea Flour, Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavor, Ocean Fish Meal, Salt, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Dried Chicory Root, Tomatoes, Blueberries, Raspberries, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Bifidobacterium Animalis Fermentation Product, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Thiamine Mononitrate, Manganese Proteinate, Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Niacin, Calcium Pantothenate, Sodium Selenite, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid. Contains A Source Of Live (Viable), Naturally Occurring Microorganisms.
- Good quality ingredients and balanced nutrition at an affordable price
- There is only one recipe choice in the small breeds range
8 Best Wet Food for Yorkies: Solid Gold Mighty Mini Lamb Toy & Small Breed Recipe
- Brand: Solid Gold
- Allergens: Sweet potato, egg, peas
- First 5 ingredients: Water sufficient for processing, lamb, chicken liver, whitefish, sweet potatoes
- Primary proteins: Lamb, chicken liver
- Calories: 91 kcal
- Flavor: Lamb, sweet potato, and cranberry
- Type: Wet food
- Lifestage: Adult
Not all Yorkies are fans of kibble, so wet dog food is often the best bet. With Solid Gold Mighty, you get small but perfectly formed potions of moist deliciousness.
Created with adult toy breeds in mind, there’s quality lamb as the concentrated protein source, nutritionally boosted by sweet potato and cranberry. Spinach and pumpkin add extra flavor and nutrition. Together, this rich wet dog food offers all the essential vitamins and minerals, along with fiber, and antioxidants to support your pooch’s everyday health. Free from fillers, corn, wheat, soy, grain, and other irritants, this is also good for Yorkies who suffer from allergies or digestive issues.
Water Sufficient For Processing, Lamb, Chicken Liver, Whitefish, Sweet Potatoes, Dried Egg Whites, Turkey, Chicken, Dried Ground Peas, Cranberries, Spinach, Guar Gum, Sodium Phosphate, Salt, Natural Flavor, Apples, Potassium Chloride, Pumpkin, Blueberries, Carrots, Choline Chloride, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Xanthan Gum, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Thiamine Mononitrate, Cobalt Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid.
- Highly palatable wet dog food that provides quality nutrition as well as flavor
- Grain, corn, soy, gluten, and filler-free
- Users report that the foil lid can be tricky to open
9 Best for Yorkie with Allergies: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Natural Balance
- Allergens: Sweet potatoes, brewer’s yeast
- First 5 ingredients: Salmon, menhaden fish meal, sweet potatoes, tapioca starch, potatoes
- Primary proteins: Salmon
- Calories: 380 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Salmon and sweet potato
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Adult
Feeding an allergy-prone Yorkie can be problematic as you need to balance tolerable ingredients with nutrition and flavor. This limited ingredient recipe from Natural Balance can take out the stress of feeding your sensitive pooch.
Formulated for small breeds, there are just six main ingredients, starting with omega-rich salmon. All other ingredients are chosen to help support healthy digestion while keeping any reactions to a minimum. Sweet potatoes are the grain-free carb source, while the whole recipe is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals to keep your little Yorkie healthy and on the go.
Salmon, Menhaden Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Potatoes, Canola Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Brewers Dried Yeast, Potato Protein, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Menhaden Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Dl-Methionine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Ascorbic Acid, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin), Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Sulfate, Copper Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Proteinate, Calcium Iodate), Dicalcium Phosphate, Citric Acid (Preservative), Mixed Tocopherols (Preservative), Rosemary Extract.
- Limited high quality ingredients in a recipe that doesn’t skip on quality or flavor
- No grains or allergens that can irritate a sensitive stomach
- The kibble is a little on the larger size
10 Also Great Senior Food: Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Dry Dog Food
- Brand: Blue Buffalo
- Allergens: Peas, alfalfa, sweet potato
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Primary proteins: chicken
- Calories: 370 kcal/cup
- Flavor: Chicken and brown rice
- Type: Dry food
- Lifestage: Senior
Getting the nutrition right for your elderly Yorkie is key to good health in their senior years. And that means a dog food that’s lower in calories but includes quality protein. Blue Buffalo has come up with a nutrient-rich senior recipe for small breeds that ticks all those boxes.
This chicken and brown rice recipe tastes good enough to entice older picky eaters and the kibble is easy on their teeth and mouth as well as digestive health. With protein and carbs for muscle maintenance and energy release you also get calcium, phosphorus, glucosamine, and chondroitin. All-in-all, this is a well-balanced small dog formula designed to support the lifestyle of your elderly dog.
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Peas, Pea Starch, Pea Fiber, Flaxseed (source of Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids), Natural Flavor, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Pea Protein, Fish Oil (source of DHA- Docosahexaenoic Acid), Direct Dehydrated Alfalfa Pellets, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Dried Chicory Root, Potatoes, Alfalfa Nutrient Concentrate, DL-Methionine, Salt, Vitamin E Supplement, Taurine, Dicalcium Phosphate, preserved with Mixed Tocopherols, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Garlic, L-Carnitine, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for color, Ferrous Sulfate, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Copper Sulfate, L-Lysine, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Chondroitin Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Iodate, Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, Dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, Dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, Dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, Dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Sodium Selenite, Oil of Rosemary.
- Combines taste, targeted nutrients, and quality protein to support your dog’s golden years
- Some users report temporary gas issues in their dogs so a slow transition is a must
How to Choose the Best Food for Yorkies?
Here are the main things to look for when choosing a healthy diet for your little pet.
Appropriately Sized
The Yorkie is a toy breed and so they have small mouths and tiny teeth. So, the ideal nutrition will be in small enough pieces for your pooch to safely eat and digest. The softer consistency of wet dog food works the best, but if your dog prefers a crunch, then choose kibble that’s smaller sized or created for toy breeds.
Easily Digestible
As well as mini mouths and teeth, the Yorkie also has a pint-sized tum and digestive system. This is why they can be a little sensitive when it comes to what they eat. You can support your dog’s health and well-being by choosing a dog food that is easily digestible and free from any irritating ingredients.
Higher Levels of Calories, Proteins, and Fats
Yorkies are also little dynamos and need a nutrient-rich diet to sustain their energy and metabolism. This means dog food that has higher levels of calories and fats, as well as quality protein for strong muscle tissues to keep them healthy and happy all day long.
The calorie levels need to be appropriate to their life stage and activity levels, while at least 21% crude protein is ideal to meet all their energy and health requirements.
What to Consider When Buying a Food for Yorkies
So, now we know what the essentials are when it comes to feeding your Yorkie a nutritious diet, here’s what to look for in their dog food.
Age-Appropriate Formula
As with all dog breeds, one type of dog food doesn’t fit all, especially when it comes to the various life stages. A Yorkie puppy will need more calories than a senior pooch so make sure you are choosing an age-appropriate formula.
Limited Ingredients
A limited ingredient recipe can be a good idea if your Yorkie is on the sensitive side when it comes to their food. With fewer ingredients and no artificial additives, a quality limited ingredient dog food will still provide all the essential nutrients, calories, and protein they need.
Proteins
A decent level of high-quality protein is also essential in the best dog food for Yorkies as they need it for muscle and energy support. Look for between 21% and 34% protein sourced from a named animal to ensure nutritional quality.
Healthy Fats
Yorkies are renowned for their silky coat, and so sufficient good fats, including omega fatty acids, are needed for a healthy coat and skin. Healthy fats also support your Yorkie’s eyes, heart, and brain as well as their joint health.
Carbs
As your little pooch needs sufficient calories to support their busy Yorkie lifestyle, slow-releasing carbohydrates in their food will help to sustain their energy levels. Look for fruits, vegetables, and whole grains but be mindful of certain grain ingredients if your dog has allergies.
Fiber and Probiotics
Your Yorkie needs fiber in their diet for healthy digestion. An added probiotic in their diet can also be beneficial to support the absorption of the nutrients their body needs.
Vitamins and Minerals
And finally, always read the label on any dog food you are choosing to ensure it is providing your little Yorkie with all the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants they need for a happy and healthy life.
What are Common Yorkie Health Issues and How Diet Can Help?
Although the Yorkie is an energetic little chap with a zest for life, his diminutive size can also mean he is prone to a few health issues:
Sensitive Stomach
Yorkies are known to suffer from sensitive stomachs, which can lead to unpleasant digestive upsets. And their sensitive tums can often be caused by food allergies or intolerances which is where their diet can significantly help. Limited ingredient diets to remove the most common food triggers are a good idea as well as dog foods that include more fiber and probiotics.
Hypoglycemia
A common condition caused by unusually low levels of blood sugar, Yorkies can be prone to hypoglycemia due to their small body size. This means that their body cannot always store sufficient levels of sugar (converted to glycogen) as well as it should. Low blood sugar levels can cause numerous symptoms, including shaking, weakness, and seizures.
Your Yorkie’s diet can help to level out their blood sugars and prevent those hazardous glucose ‘crashes’. To prevent or manage hypoglycemia, ensure your pooch eats sufficient calories each day and that their dog food is balanced to ensure he is getting all those blood normalizing macronutrients.
Tracheal Collapse
This condition is a result of a weakening of the trachea (windpipe) or when the cartilage that creates the rings of the trachea is incomplete. It’s a genetic condition that appears to impact the Yorkshire terrier more than most other breeds and can cause the trachea to collapse and block the dog’s airway.
Dog foods that are not appropriate for toy breeds – e.g., too large, or too hard to eat correctly – can provoke the condition. However, their diet, especially food that contains chondroitin, MSM, and glucosamine, can help to improve the function of the cartilage cells in the trachea.
Floating Knee Cap
Also known as a luxating patella, this condition is where your pooch’s kneecap floats away from its normal position. Yorkies and other small breeds have a predisposition for the disease.
Fortunately, their diet can help limit the inflammation and damage linked to the condition. Look for dog foods that have high-quality protein and sufficient antioxidants as well as added supplements such as glucosamine which can help with stiffness, swelling, and pain.
Source:
- Niki Parker, DVM, What Is the Best Dog Food?, PetMD
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, ASPCA
Frequently Asked Questions
Yorkshire terriers do have a reputation for being picky eaters, but that doesn’t mean all Yorkies are the same. If your Yorkie is choosy around their food bowl, then the best type of meal to choose is wet food. Many Yorkie dogs prefer wet food formulas, as they are easier for little dogs to chew and digest. For variety, you could also opt to give your little picky eater a wet food with some dry kibble mixed in for extra texture.
The Yorkshire terrier is one of the most common dog breeds to suffer from sensitive tums. If your pup has stomach issues or overactive digestion, then choosing appropriate dog foods can help. This can include wet dog food that’s easier to digest and kinder on sensitive stomachs. Formulas specifically for allergies and sensitivities can also help, as can recipes with extra fiber and added probiotics to keep everything working as it should.
This depends on your dog, his health, and his preferences. Wet dog food is a good choice if palatability is a priority, especially if they are older or picky eaters. However, moisture-rich food can cause looser stools.
If your dog prefers dry food, then make sure the kibble pieces are not too large, as you want their food to be safe and easy for them to eat. Or you could feed them the best of both worlds – a wet food with a handful of kibbles as a crunchy topper!
The best food to give your Yorkie pal will have sufficient calories for their small dog’s energy as well as all the essential nutrients to support their good health. That means a quality protein with balanced amounts of carbohydrates and healthy fats. It’s also important to ensure that the dog food you choose is suitable for their life stage, whether they are a Yorkie puppy, adult, or a senior mini dog.
Yorkshire terriers need to have sufficient nutrients and calories to sustain their health and energy each day, without leading to unwanted weight gain or loss.
As a rough guide, your dog needs a daily diet that will provide them with approximately 30 calories per pound of body weight. As Yorkies are small breed dogs with a faster metabolism than the average-sized pooch, their calorie intake should be a little higher, especially Yorkie puppies.
If we take the average body weight of a Yorkie – which is between four and seven pounds – then your pet should consume between 120 and 200 calories a day.
Due to the Yorkie’s mini size and high energy levels, it is also a good idea to spread their daily intake over three-four small meals during the day, rather than one or two larger meals.
As with all dogs, there are certain human foods you should avoid giving your Yorkshire terrier as they can be harmful, even fatal if eaten in sufficient quantities. Many can also exacerbate existing sensitive stomachs and allergies.
Top of the danger list is chocolate, grapes, raisins, sugar substitutes, onions, garlic, and most nuts. You should also keep sugar and salt to a minimum. The American Kennel Club has a guide to human foods which your Yorkie and other dogs should avoid. Or seek veterinary guidance.
Young toy breeds require a high-calorie diet that is also protein-rich and nutrient-dense to support their growth. For Yorkshire terrier puppies and young dogs (under the age of 12 months), they will also need more of certain nutrients such as calcium and DHA to support healthy development. If you are feeding them puppy-appropriate dry dog food, then ensure the kibble pieces are small enough for them to safely chew and digest.
Yorkshire terriers reach their senior years from around the ages of 8-10. While they are most likely to still be active, their overall activity levels and appetite will start to slow down.
As they age, a more appropriate diet to sustain their health and nutritional needs may be required. And this typically includes a senior dog food formulated to include more protein and fewer calories.
Senior formulas can also contain supplements to help with age-related conditions such as joint stiffness or eye and heart health. If you are in any doubt as to what is the best food to give to your senior Yorkie, always get the right veterinary advice.
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