Best Treats for Training Yorkies: A Comprehensive Guide

What Are the Best Treats for Training a Yorkie?

Choosing the right treats for training your Yorkie is crucial for successful training and a happy pup. Your Yorkie’s small size means you need treats that are small, digestible, and packed with flavor to keep them motivated. To find the perfect training treat, consider the following factors:

Size: Yorkies have delicate stomachs, so you’ll need treats that are small and easily digestible. Avoid large or hard treats that can be difficult for them to chew.
Flavor: Yorkies have a keen sense of smell and taste, so opt for treats with strong flavors that they will find appealing. Avoid using treats that are too sweet, as this can lead to dental problems.
Calorie Content: It’s important to choose treats with a low calorie content to prevent your Yorkie from gaining weight. Look for treats with less than 5 calories per piece.
Ingredient Quality: Aim for treats made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid treats that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Here are some of the best treat options for training your Yorkie:

Freeze-Dried Liver Treats: Freeze-dried liver treats are packed with flavor and are low in calories. They are also a good source of protein and other nutrients.
Small Training Biscuits: Small training biscuits come in a variety of flavors and are a good option for rewarding your Yorkie for good behavior. Look for biscuits that are low in calories and made with whole grains.
Cheese Cubes: Small cheese cubes can be a great motivator for your Yorkie. Make sure you use low-fat cheese to avoid any digestive issues.
Cooked Chicken or Beef: You can also use cooked chicken or beef as treats. Cut the meat into small pieces and make sure it is fully cooked.
Fruits and Vegetables: Small pieces of fruits and vegetables like blueberries, strawberries, carrots, or green beans can be healthy alternatives.

Remember to use treats sparingly and to avoid overfeeding your Yorkie. It’s best to choose treats that are less than 10% of your Yorkie’s daily calorie intake. By using the right treats and positive reinforcement techniques, you can create a positive training experience for your Yorkie and strengthen your bond.

What Are Some Homemade Treats I Can Make for My Yorkie?

Homemade treats offer you the advantage of controlling the ingredients and ensuring they are healthy and palatable for your Yorkie. They are also a great way to bond with your furry friend by creating something special for them. Here are a few simple and healthy homemade treat recipes for your Yorkie:

Peanut Butter Banana Bites

These tasty treats are simple to make and a great source of protein and fiber. They are also a good option for Yorkies with allergies, as they are grain-free.

Ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup peanut butter (ensure it’s xylitol-free)
1/4 cup mashed banana
1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
Knead the dough until it is smooth and forms a ball.
Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and use cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Sweet Potato and Apple Bites

These treats are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy and delicious option for your Yorkie.

Ingredients:
1 cup sweet potato, cooked and mashed
1/2 cup apple, diced
1/4 cup whole wheat flour
1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine all ingredients.
Mix well and then roll the dough into small balls.
Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remember to store homemade treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

What About Commercial Treats?

While homemade treats are a great option, commercial treats offer convenience and variety. When choosing commercial treats for your Yorkie, consider the following factors:

Ingredients: Look for treats that are made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid treats that contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Calorie Content: Choose treats with a low calorie content to prevent your Yorkie from gaining weight. Look for treats with less than 5 calories per piece.
Size: Ensure the treats are small enough for your Yorkie to easily chew and digest.
Flavor: Select treats with flavors that your Yorkie will enjoy. Avoid treats that are too sweet, as this can lead to dental problems.
Texture: Some Yorkies prefer soft treats, while others prefer crunchy treats. Choose a texture that your Yorkie enjoys.

Popular commercial treat brands for Yorkies include:

Blue Buffalo: Offers a variety of small and soft treats with natural ingredients.
Wellness: Known for their high-quality ingredients and natural flavors.
Orijen: Offers freeze-dried treats with a focus on protein and natural ingredients.
Canidae: Provides small training treats with a variety of flavors and textures.
Nutro: Offers a variety of small and healthy treats for Yorkies.

Remember to always check the ingredient list and nutritional information before purchasing commercial treats. A good rule of thumb is to choose treats that are less than 10% of your Yorkie’s daily calorie intake.

Can I Use Human Food as Treats?

While it’s tempting to share your food with your Yorkie, it’s not always a good idea. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs, and others are simply not good for their digestive system. Here are some foods that you should avoid giving your Yorkie:

Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems, including vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and even death.
Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic can cause anemia in dogs.
Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, tremors, and vomiting in dogs.
Avocados: Avocados contain persin, which is toxic to dogs.
Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar alcohol found in many sugar-free foods, including chewing gum, candy, and peanut butter. It can cause liver failure in dogs.

If you’re unsure about whether or not a particular human food is safe for your Yorkie, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid giving it to them. There are plenty of safe and healthy treats available for dogs, so there’s no need to risk your Yorkie’s health.

Yorkshire Terrier being examined by a veterinarian

How Often Should I Give My Yorkie Treats?

The frequency of treating your Yorkie depends on their individual needs and training goals. However, it’s best to use treats sparingly and as part of a balanced diet. Avoid giving your Yorkie treats as a primary food source, as this can lead to weight gain and nutritional deficiencies.

Here are some general guidelines:

During Training: Give treats during training sessions as rewards for good behavior. Aim for 1-2 treats per session.
As Special Rewards: Use treats to reward your Yorkie for special achievements or good behavior outside of training sessions.
For Bonding: Offer treats to bond with your Yorkie and show them your love and affection.

It’s important to keep track of the number of treats your Yorkie consumes to ensure they are not getting too many calories. You can also substitute treats with praise and affection to reinforce good behavior.

What Are Some Tips for Using Treats Effectively for Training?

Using treats effectively for training your Yorkie can make a big difference in your success. Here are some tips:

Use Small Treats: Use small, bite-sized treats that your Yorkie can easily consume. This will prevent them from becoming too full and losing focus during training.
Vary the Treats: Switch up the treats you use for training to keep your Yorkie interested.
Be Consistent: Use treats consistently during training sessions. This will help your Yorkie understand the connection between good behavior and rewards.
Pair Treats with Praise: Always pair treats with verbal praise and affection. This will help your Yorkie associate the treats with positive experiences.
Be Patient: Training takes time and patience. Don’t get discouraged if your Yorkie doesn’t get it right away. Just keep practicing and using positive reinforcement.

Remember, treats are just one tool for training your Yorkie. Consistency, positive reinforcement, and patience are crucial for success.

Are There Any Alternatives to Treats for Training?

While treats are a popular and effective training tool, there are other alternatives that can be just as rewarding for your Yorkie. These alternatives include:

Praise and Affection: Giving your Yorkie verbal praise and physical affection can be a powerful motivator.
Toys: Using toys as rewards during training can be a fun and engaging way to keep your Yorkie motivated.
Play: Your Yorkie may find playing with you more rewarding than treats. Offer a short play session as a reward for good behavior.

You can also combine these alternatives with treats to create a balanced training approach. For example, you could offer your Yorkie a treat for a successful training session, followed by a short play session.

What About Dental Health and Treats?

It’s essential to consider your Yorkie’s dental health when choosing treats. Soft treats can be easier for them to chew, but they don’t provide the same dental benefits as harder treats. Hard treats, like dental chews or bones, can help to scrape plaque and tartar off their teeth.

Here are some dental health tips for your Yorkie:

Choose dental chews: Look for dental chews specifically designed for small dogs. These chews have a textured surface that helps to clean your Yorkie’s teeth.
Brush your Yorkie’s teeth: Brush your Yorkie’s teeth regularly to remove plaque and tartar.
Provide dental toys: Offer dental toys that help to stimulate chewing and promote dental health.
Avoid treats that are too sugary: Sugary treats can contribute to tooth decay.

Maintaining your Yorkie’s dental health is crucial to their overall well-being. Regular dental hygiene and a balanced diet can help to prevent dental problems.

How Can I Make Sure My Yorkie Doesn’t Get Overweight?

Yorkies are prone to weight gain, so it’s essential to monitor their diet and exercise. Treats should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are some tips for preventing your Yorkie from becoming overweight:

Choose low-calorie treats: Look for treats that are low in calories and fat.
Limit treat intake: Give treats sparingly and as rewards for good behavior.
Provide plenty of exercise: Make sure your Yorkie gets enough exercise to burn off extra calories.
Feed your Yorkie a balanced diet: Choose a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.
Monitor your Yorkie’s weight: Take your Yorkie to the vet for regular checkups to monitor their weight and overall health.

A healthy weight is crucial for your Yorkie’s well-being. By following these tips, you can help your Yorkie stay healthy and happy for years to come.

Table Summarizing Best Treats for Yorkies

Treat Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Freeze-Dried Liver Treats	High in flavor, low in calories, digestible, good source of protein and nutrients	Can be expensive
Small Training Biscuits	Variety of flavors, low in calories, digestible, can be found in many stores	May not be as flavorful as other options
Cheese Cubes	High in protein and fat, appealing flavor, good source of calcium	Can be high in calories and fat, may not be suitable for all Yorkies
Cooked Chicken or Beef	High in protein, low in fat, natural, easily digestible	Needs to be cooked thoroughly, may not be suitable for all Yorkies
Fruits and Vegetables	Low in calories, good source of vitamins and minerals, natural	May not be as appealing to all Yorkies
Homemade Treats	Control over ingredients, healthy options, bonding experience	Requires time and effort to prepare
Commercial Treats	Convenience, variety, specialized formulas for different needs	May contain artificial ingredients, can be expensive

FAQ

Can I Give My Yorkie Too Many Treats?

Yes, it’s possible to give your Yorkie too many treats. Treats should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Overfeeding your Yorkie can lead to weight gain, obesity, and other health problems.

What If My Yorkie Doesn’t Like the Treats I Choose?

Not all Yorkies have the same taste preferences. If your Yorkie doesn’t seem to enjoy the treats you’ve chosen, try experimenting with different flavors and textures. You can also use a combination of treats and other rewards, such as praise and affection.

How Do I Know If My Yorkie Is Getting Enough Exercise?

Your Yorkie should be getting at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. They should be able to walk comfortably and run without becoming overly tired. You can also look for signs of boredom or restlessness, which may indicate they need more exercise.

Can Treats Help With Potty Training?

Yes, treats can be a helpful tool for potty training your Yorkie. When they go to the bathroom in the designated area, reward them with a treat to reinforce the positive behavior.

Should I Use Treats for Every Command?

While treats can be a helpful tool for training, they shouldn’t be used for every command. As your Yorkie progresses with training, you can gradually reduce the number of treats you use. You can also use a combination of treats, praise, and affection to reinforce good behavior.

Are There Any Treats That Can Help with My Yorkie’s Anxiety?

There are several treats on the market that are specifically formulated to help with anxiety in dogs. These treats typically contain calming ingredients like chamomile, valerian root, or L-theanine. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before giving your Yorkie any new treats, especially those designed for specific health concerns.

Where Can I Find More Information About Treats for Yorkies?

You can find more information about treats for Yorkies from reputable sources like the American Kennel Club (AKC), the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), or your veterinarian. You can also check out online resources and forums dedicated to Yorkie owners.

Rate this post

Best Treats For Training Yorkies