Training Day Treats For Yorkies: A Guide to Keeping Your Pup Happy and Healthy

What are the best treats for Yorkie training?

Training your Yorkie can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it takes patience and consistency. One of the most important tools in your training arsenal is a selection of tasty treats. Yorkies are known for being food-motivated, making them highly responsive to positive reinforcement training.

Choosing the right training treats is crucial. They should be small, easily digestible, and highly palatable to your Yorkie. Here’s a guide to help you select the ideal treats for your Yorkie’s training journey:

Size Matters: Look for treats that are small enough to be easily consumed by your Yorkie in one or two bites. Large treats can be overwhelming and may distract your Yorkie from the training session.

High-Value Treats: Yorkies are notorious for being selective eaters. Choose treats that your Yorkie finds irresistible, like those made with strong flavors such as chicken, beef, or cheese.

Limited Ingredients: To prevent allergies and digestive issues, opt for treats with simple and limited ingredients. Avoid those containing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Healthy Options: Look for treats made with natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, or lean meat. These can be healthier alternatives to highly processed treats.

Treat Variety: Keep your training sessions exciting by offering your Yorkie a variety of treats. This can help prevent boredom and keep them engaged.

Avoid Overfeeding: Remember that treats should be given sparingly as part of a training session. Overfeeding can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

How often should I give my Yorkie treats during training?

The frequency of treats during training depends on your Yorkie’s age, energy levels, and training goals. Generally, it’s best to use a schedule that reinforces good behavior while avoiding overfeeding.

Puppy Training: For puppies, it’s common to offer treats more frequently, especially in the initial stages of training. This helps them learn quickly and builds a strong association between good behavior and rewards.

Adult Yorkies: Once your Yorkie is older and has learned basic commands, you can gradually reduce the frequency of treats. They may respond well to praise and occasional treats for consistent performance.

Individual Needs: Every Yorkie is different. Observe your dog’s response to training and adjust the frequency of treats accordingly. If they are highly motivated by treats, you might need to offer them more frequently than dogs that are less food-driven.

Treats vs. Meals: It’s essential to ensure that treats don’t significantly contribute to your Yorkie’s daily calorie intake. Treats should be considered supplements to their main meals.

Consistency is Key: Whether you use treats frequently or sparingly, be consistent with your training routine. This helps your Yorkie learn and understand the expectations.

Rewarding Progress: Use treats to reinforce desired behaviors, but also don’t hesitate to use praise and affection. A combination of positive reinforcement techniques can be highly effective.

Can I use homemade treats for my Yorkie during training?

Absolutely! Homemade treats can be a healthier and more cost-effective option for training your Yorkie. You have complete control over the ingredients and can ensure they are free from artificial additives and fillers.

Here are some tips for making homemade treats for your Yorkie:

Use Simple Ingredients: Opt for natural, fresh ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, apples, chicken, beef, or fish. Avoid using ingredients that can be harmful to dogs, such as onions, garlic, chocolate, or grapes.

Cook Thoroughly: Ensure that all ingredients are cooked thoroughly to prevent any foodborne illnesses.

Cut into Small Bites: Make sure the treats are small enough for your Yorkie to easily consume.

Store Properly: Homemade treats can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

Introduce Gradually: Start by offering your Yorkie a small amount of homemade treats to see if they have any adverse reactions. If your dog is allergic to a specific ingredient, you’ll notice symptoms like itching, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Enjoy the Process: Making treats with your Yorkie can be a fun bonding experience!

What are some popular training treat brands for Yorkies?

Choosing the right training treats for your Yorkie is essential for a successful training journey. There are countless options available, so it’s vital to consider your dog’s preferences, dietary needs, and your budget.

Here are some popular training treat brands for Yorkies:

• Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Healthy Growth Formula Dog Treats: These treats are specifically designed for puppies and are formulated with real chicken as the first ingredient. They offer a complete and balanced nutritional profile for growing pups.
• Wellness Soft Puppy Bites: Made with real chicken or salmon as the primary ingredient, these soft bites are easily digestible and perfect for small dogs. They are also grain-free, making them ideal for dogs with sensitivities.
• Purina Pro Plan Focus Training Treats: These treats are specially formulated with a unique blend of flavors and textures that help keep your Yorkie engaged during training. They are also low in calories, making them a healthier alternative.
• Zuke’s Mini Naturals Training Treats: Zuke’s offers a range of mini training treats made with natural ingredients and delicious flavors. They are highly palatable and come in various sizes, making them suitable for Yorkies.
• Greenies Teething Treats: These dental treats are a great option for teething puppies. They are designed to help clean teeth and freshen breath while providing a healthy chew.
• Doggone Good Dog Treats: Doggone Good offers a wide variety of treats made with real meat and vegetables. They are free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
• Cloud Star Tricky Trainers: These bite-sized treats are made with real chicken and are perfect for positive reinforcement training. They are highly palatable and easy to break into smaller pieces.
• Hill’s Science Diet Training Treats: These treats are formulated with high-quality ingredients and are designed to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Remember to always check the ingredients list and nutritional information on any treat package before giving it to your Yorkie. Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s dietary needs.

Can I use regular dog food as treats for my Yorkie?

While it might be tempting to use your Yorkie’s regular dog food as treats, it’s not always the best strategy for training. Here’s why:

Limited Motivation: Yorkies, being food-motivated, often need a tastier treat than their daily kibble to be fully engaged in training.

Overfeeding: Using regular dog food as treats can lead to overfeeding, especially if you offer large portions. This can contribute to weight gain.

Nutrient Imbalance: Treating your Yorkie with regular dog food can disrupt their nutritional balance if they’re already getting enough calories and nutrients from their main meals.

Flavor Fatigue: Using the same flavor of dog food all the time as treats can make your Yorkie less enthusiastic about training. Variety is key!

Exceptions: There are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if you’re using a high-quality, highly palatable dog food that your Yorkie loves, you can use it as a treat occasionally. However, it’s essential to use it sparingly and in small quantities.

Best Practice: It’s generally recommended to use dedicated training treats, as they are designed to be highly rewarding and digestible. This will ensure that your Yorkie stays engaged during training and doesn’t get overfed.

What are some healthy treats that are good for Yorkies?

Besides traditional treats, there are numerous healthy and natural options that can satisfy your Yorkie’s cravings while promoting their well-being.

Fruits and Vegetables: Many fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, offering a refreshing and nutritious alternative to processed treats.

Here’s a list of safe options:

• Apples (without seeds)
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Carrots
• Celery
• Cucumbers
• Green Beans
• Mangoes (without the pit)
• Peaches (without the pit)
• Pears (without the core)
• Pineapple
• Strawberries
• Watermelon (without the rind)

Remember to wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces before giving them to your Yorkie. It’s also essential to introduce these treats gradually, starting with small portions to see if your dog has any allergies or sensitivities.

What are some bad treats for Yorkies?

While many treats are perfectly safe and delicious for Yorkies, some can be harmful and should be avoided.

Here’s a list of treats that are not safe for Yorkies:

• Chocolate: Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, and even death.
• Onions and Garlic: Onions and garlic contain a substance called N-propyl disulfide, which can cause red blood cell damage in dogs. This can lead to anemia and other health problems.
• Grapes and Raisins: Grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small quantities.

• Macadamia Nuts: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and paralysis in dogs.
• Xylitol: Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free foods and products. It can be deadly to dogs, causing a rapid drop in blood sugar, liver failure, and even death.
• Bones: While cooked bones may seem like a healthy treat, they can splinter and cause internal damage. Stick to safe chews like bully sticks or rubber toys.
• Rawhide: Rawhide chews can be a choking hazard and can also cause gastrointestinal blockages.
• Sugar-laden Treats: Treats high in sugar can contribute to weight gain, dental problems, and other health issues.

What are some alternatives to using treats for training?

While treats can be a powerful motivator for training, there are alternative methods that you can use, especially if your Yorkie is less food-driven.

Praise and Affection: Yorkies often respond well to verbal praise and affection. Use a happy and encouraging tone and offer plenty of cuddles and scratches to reinforce good behavior.

Toys: Many Yorkies love to play, so you can use toys as rewards for completing commands or tasks. Choose toys that are interactive and engaging, such as squeaky toys, fetch balls, or puzzle toys.

Games: Turning training into a fun game can make it more enjoyable for both you and your Yorkie. Play hide-and-seek, teach them tricks like “touch” or “spin,” or create a simple obstacle course.

Positive Reinforcement: The key to successful training is using positive reinforcement. Focus on rewarding your Yorkie for doing the right thing, rather than punishing them for mistakes.

Consistency: Regardless of the method you use, consistency is key to successful training. Be patient, stick to a routine, and celebrate your Yorkie’s successes.

Can I give my Yorkie treats outside of training?

Yes, you can certainly give your Yorkie treats outside of training sessions, but it’s essential to do so responsibly.

Treats as Rewards: You can use treats to reward your Yorkie for good behavior, such as being well-behaved during walks, completing a chore, or simply being a good companion.

Special Occasions: Occasions like birthdays, holidays, or just a random day to show appreciation can be marked with a special treat.

Treats for Bonding: Sharing a treat with your Yorkie can be a great way to bond and create a positive connection.

Moderation: Remember that treats should be given in moderation. Too many treats can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and other health issues.

Consider Alternatives: If you want to give your Yorkie something special, you can always offer them a piece of their favorite fruit or vegetable or a small amount of cooked chicken or fish.

How do I choose the right size treats for my Yorkie?

Choosing the right size treats for your Yorkie is crucial for their safety and training success.

Size Matters: Too large treats can be a choking hazard for Yorkies, especially puppies. They can also make it difficult for your dog to swallow.

Small and Bite-Sized: The ideal treat size is small and bite-sized, easy for your Yorkie to chew and swallow.

Check the Packaging: Most treat packaging indicates the recommended size for different breeds.

Break it Down: If you have larger treats, you can always break them into smaller pieces to make them more appropriate for your Yorkie.

Observe Your Yorkie: Pay attention to how your Yorkie chews and swallows treats. If they seem to be struggling, choose smaller sizes.

Prevent Choking: Always supervise your Yorkie when they are eating treats, especially puppies, to ensure they don’t choke.

How do I store training treats for my Yorkie?

Proper storage of training treats is essential for maintaining their freshness, preventing spoilage, and ensuring the safety of your Yorkie.

Airtight Containers: The best way to store training treats is in airtight containers to prevent them from becoming stale or absorbing moisture.

Refrigeration: Some treats, especially those made with fresh ingredients, may benefit from refrigeration. This helps to extend their shelf life and maintain their quality.

Freezing: If you have a large quantity of treats, you can freeze them to keep them fresh for longer. To freeze treats, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer.

Labeling: Label your containers with the date so you know how long they have been stored.

Check Expiration Dates: Always check the expiration dates on commercially packaged treats.

Avoid Moisture and Heat: Keep treats away from direct sunlight and heat, as this can affect their quality and potentially make them unsafe for your Yorkie.

## Table summarizing information:

Category	Best Practices	Alternatives	Things to Avoid
Treat Selection	Small, digestible, high-value, limited ingredients, healthy options, variety	Homemade treats, fruits and vegetables, safe chews	Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, xylitol, bones, rawhide, sugary treats
Treat Frequency	Depends on age, energy levels, training goals, use sparingly	Praise and affection, toys, games, positive reinforcement	Overfeeding, using regular dog food as treats
Treat Size	Small and bite-sized, appropriate for your Yorkie’s size	Break larger treats into smaller pieces, observe your Yorkie	Large treats that can be a choking hazard
Treat Storage	Airtight containers, refrigeration, freezing, labeling, checking expiration dates	–	Moisture, heat, direct sunlight

## Frequently Asked Questions