12 Fruits Safe for Yorkshire Terriers: A Guide to Healthy Treats

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are known for their playful personalities and affectionate nature. As responsible pet owners, we want to provide them with the best possible care, including healthy and delicious treats. Fruits can be a great way to add variety to your Yorkie’s diet, but not all fruits are safe for them. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the 12 fruits that are safe for your Yorkie to enjoy, exploring their benefits, serving sizes, and potential risks. We’ll also address common questions about feeding fruits to Yorkies.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Apples?

Apples are a delightful treat for Yorkshire Terriers, providing a good source of fiber and vitamin C. They can also help keep their teeth clean by promoting chewing. However, it’s important to remember that moderation is key.

Benefits:

• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion
• Packed with vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Contains antioxidants, protecting against cell damage
• Promotes dental hygiene through chewing

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small slices of apple, no larger than a quarter of an inch, several times a week. Avoid giving them the core or seeds, as these contain cyanide, which is toxic. It’s also important to remove the stem to prevent choking hazards.

Potential Risks:

While apples are generally safe, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks:

• Choking Hazard: Ensure the slices are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much apple can cause diarrhea or vomiting, especially if your Yorkie is not used to it.
• Seeds and Core: The seeds and core contain cyanide, which is toxic. Always remove them before feeding.
• Allergic Reactions: While uncommon, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to apples.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Bananas?

Bananas are a popular treat for Yorkshire Terriers, offering a dose of potassium and fiber. They are also a good source of vitamin B6, which supports brain function.

Benefits:

• Excellent source of potassium, essential for muscle function and nerve impulses
• Rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion
• Contains vitamin B6, vital for brain function and energy metabolism
• Provides a natural source of energy

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small pieces of banana, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. It’s best to avoid feeding them the peel, as it can be difficult to digest.

Potential Risks:

While bananas are safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Sugar Content: Bananas are high in sugar, so moderation is crucial to prevent weight gain.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much banana can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Peel: The peel is difficult to digest and can cause choking or intestinal problems.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to bananas.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Blueberries?

Blueberries are a fantastic treat for Yorkies, brimming with antioxidants and fiber. They’re also low in calories, making them a healthy snack option.

Benefits:

• Packed with antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion
• Low in calories, making them a guilt-free treat
• Support cognitive function

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie a few blueberries a few times a week. Remember, small bites are always better than large chunks.

Potential Risks:

While blueberries are safe, there are some potential risks to be aware of:

• Choking Hazard: Smaller Yorkies might have trouble with whole blueberries. It’s best to cut them in half or quarters.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too many blueberries can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Blueberries do contain sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to blueberries.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Cantaloupe?

Cantaloupe is a refreshing treat for Yorkies, offering a good source of vitamin A and potassium. It’s also low in calories, making it a healthy snack option.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin A, essential for eye health and immune function
• Contains potassium, vital for muscle function and nerve impulses
• Low in calories, making it a healthy snack option
• High in water content, helping to stay hydrated

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small pieces of cantaloupe, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. Remove the rind and seeds, as these can be a choking hazard.

Potential Risks:

While cantaloupe is safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choking Hazard: Make sure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much cantaloupe can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Cantaloupe contains sugar, so moderation is essential.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to cantaloupe.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Cranberries?

Cranberries are a tasty treat for Yorkies, packed with antioxidants and vitamin C. They also have antibacterial properties, which can help support urinary tract health.

Benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• Contains vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Have antibacterial properties, supporting urinary tract health
• Low in calories, making them a guilt-free treat

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie a few cranberries a few times a week. Ensure the cranberries are fresh or dried, and avoid giving them the stems. It’s also best to cut the cranberries in half to prevent choking.

Potential Risks:

While cranberries are safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choking Hazard: Ensure the cranberries are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too many cranberries can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Cranberries contain sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to cranberries.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Mangoes?

Mangoes are a tropical treat that Yorkies can enjoy, offering a source of vitamin C and fiber. They are also rich in antioxidants, promoting overall health.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Packed with fiber, aiding digestion
• Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• Provides a natural source of energy

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small pieces of mango, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. Remove the pit and peel before serving, as these can be a choking hazard.

Potential Risks:

While mangoes are safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choking Hazard: Ensure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much mango can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Mangoes contain sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to mangoes.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Melon?

Melon, including watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew, can be a refreshing treat for Yorkies. It’s a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and it’s also a great source of hydration.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamins A and C, essential for immune function and eye health
• Contains potassium, vital for muscle function and nerve impulses
• Packed with antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• High in water content, keeping your Yorkie hydrated

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small pieces of melon, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. Remove the rind and seeds, as these can be a choking hazard.

Potential Risks:

While melon is safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choking Hazard: Make sure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much melon can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Melon contains sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to melon.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Oranges?

Oranges are a citrus fruit packed with vitamin C and fiber. They can be a great source of antioxidants, but it’s important to introduce them gradually and in moderation.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Packed with fiber, aiding digestion
• Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• May help prevent certain types of cancer

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie a small piece of orange, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. It’s best to remove the peel, as it can be difficult to digest.

Potential Risks:

While oranges are safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Acidity: Oranges are acidic, which can cause stomach upset if given in large quantities.
• Choking Hazard: Ensure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much orange can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to oranges.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Pears?

Pears are a good source of fiber and vitamin C, making them a healthy treat for Yorkshire Terriers. They can also help keep their teeth clean by promoting chewing.

Benefits:

• Rich in fiber, aiding digestion
• Packed with vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage
• Promotes dental hygiene through chewing

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small slices of pear, no larger than a quarter of an inch, several times a week. Avoid giving them the core or seeds, as these contain cyanide, which is toxic. It’s also important to remove the stem to prevent choking hazards.

Potential Risks:

While pears are generally safe, it’s crucial to be aware of potential risks:

• Choking Hazard: Ensure the slices are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much pear can cause diarrhea or vomiting, especially if your Yorkie is not used to it.
• Seeds and Core: The seeds and core contain cyanide, which is toxic. Always remove them before feeding.
• Allergies: While uncommon, some dogs may have an allergic reaction to pears.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Pineapple?

Pineapple is a tropical fruit that Yorkies can enjoy in moderation. It’s rich in vitamin C and fiber, and it’s also a good source of bromelain, an enzyme that has anti-inflammatory properties.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Packed with fiber, aiding digestion
• Contains bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties
• Provides a natural source of energy

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie a small piece of pineapple, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. Remove the core and peel before serving, as these can be a choking hazard.

Potential Risks:

While pineapple is safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Acidity: Pineapple is acidic, which can cause stomach upset if given in large quantities.
• Choking Hazard: Ensure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much pineapple can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to pineapple.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Strawberries?

Strawberries are a delicious treat for Yorkies, offering a good source of vitamin C and fiber. They are also low in calories, making them a healthy snack option.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Packed with fiber, aiding digestion
• Low in calories, making them a guilt-free treat
• Contains antioxidants, protecting cells from damage

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie a few strawberries a few times a week. Remember, small bites are always better than large chunks.

Potential Risks:

While strawberries are safe, there are some potential risks to be aware of:

• Choking Hazard: Smaller Yorkies might have trouble with whole strawberries. It’s best to cut them in half or quarters.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too many strawberries can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Strawberries do contain sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to strawberries.

Can Yorkshire Terriers Eat Watermelon?

Watermelon is a refreshing treat for Yorkies, offering a good source of vitamin C and potassium. It’s also a great source of hydration, especially during hot weather.

Benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C, boosting the immune system
• Contains potassium, vital for muscle function and nerve impulses
• High in water content, keeping your Yorkie hydrated
• Low in calories, making it a healthy snack option

Serving Size:

Offer your Yorkie small pieces of watermelon, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. Remove the rind and seeds, as these can be a choking hazard.

Potential Risks:

While watermelon is safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choking Hazard: Make sure the pieces are small enough to prevent choking.
• Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much watermelon can cause diarrhea or vomiting.
• Sugar Content: Watermelon contains sugar, so moderation is key.
• Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to watermelon.

Table Summarizing Safe Fruits for Yorkshire Terriers

Here’s a table summarizing the information discussed above, providing a quick reference guide for safe fruits for Yorkshire Terriers:

Fruit	Benefits	Serving Size	Potential Risks
Apples	Fiber, Vitamin C, Dental hygiene	Small slices (1/4 inch), several times a week	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, seeds and core (cyanide), allergies
Bananas	Potassium, fiber, vitamin B6, energy	Small pieces (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Sugar content, gastrointestinal upset, peel, allergies
Blueberries	Antioxidants, fiber, low calories	A few blueberries, a few times a week	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Cantaloupe	Vitamin A, potassium, low calories, hydration	Small pieces (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Cranberries	Antioxidants, vitamin C, antibacterial properties	A few cranberries, a few times a week	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Mangoes	Vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants, energy	Small pieces (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Melon (Watermelon, Cantaloupe, Honeydew)	Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, hydration	Small pieces (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Oranges	Vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants	Small piece (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Acidity, choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, allergies
Pears	Fiber, Vitamin C, Dental hygiene	Small slices (1/4 inch), several times a week	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, seeds and core (cyanide), allergies
Pineapple	Vitamin C, fiber, bromelain (anti-inflammatory)	Small piece (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Acidity, choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, allergies
Strawberries	Vitamin C, fiber, low calories, antioxidants	A few strawberries, a few times a week	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies
Watermelon	Vitamin C, potassium, hydration, low calories	Small pieces (1/4 inch), occasional treat	Choking hazard, gastrointestinal upset, sugar content, allergies

Frequently Asked Questions about Fruits for Yorkshire Terriers

Here are some frequently asked questions about feeding fruits to Yorkshire Terriers:

How much fruit can I give my Yorkie?

The amount of fruit you can give your Yorkie will depend on their size, age, and overall health. As a general rule of thumb, offer a small piece of fruit, no larger than a quarter of an inch, as an occasional treat. It’s important to monitor your Yorkie’s reaction to new fruits and adjust the amount accordingly.

What fruits should I avoid giving my Yorkie?

Some fruits are toxic to dogs, and it’s essential to avoid them. These include:

• Grapes and raisins
• Avocado
• Cherries
• Peaches (pits and leaves)
• Plums (pits and leaves)
• Apricots (pits and leaves)
• Nectarines (pits and leaves)

These fruits contain substances that can cause kidney failure, digestive problems, or other health issues in dogs. Always consult with your veterinarian if you have any doubts about what fruits are safe for your Yorkie.

Can I give my Yorkie fruit every day?

While many fruits are safe, it’s not recommended to give your Yorkie fruit every day. Fruits are high in sugar, and excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and other health issues.

Can I give my Yorkie fruit juice?

It’s not recommended to give your Yorkie fruit juice. Fruit juices are high in sugar and can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and other health problems.

Can I give my Yorkie dried fruit?

Dried fruits are high in sugar and can be a choking hazard. It’s best to avoid giving your Yorkie dried fruit.

How do I know if my Yorkie is allergic to a fruit?

Symptoms of a fruit allergy in dogs can include:

• Skin rashes
• Itching
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Swelling of the face or mouth

If you notice any of these symptoms after feeding your Yorkie a new fruit, stop giving them the fruit and consult with your veterinarian.

What if my Yorkie eats a fruit that is toxic to them?

If your Yorkie eats a fruit that is toxic to them, contact your veterinarian immediately. The sooner you seek medical attention, the better the chances of a successful recovery.