What Human Foods Can Yorkies Eat? A Comprehensive Guide

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies as they are affectionately called, are known for their big personalities and tiny size. These adorable pups are often treated like human children, and their owners are eager to share their food with them. However, not all human foods are safe for Yorkies. This guide will explore the best and worst human foods for Yorkies, offering a comprehensive look at what you can safely share with your furry friend.

What are Yorkie-friendly human foods?

Sharing a little bit of your food with your Yorkie can be a fun way to bond and create special moments. However, it’s crucial to choose human foods that are safe and healthy for your dog. Here’s a list of human foods that are generally considered safe for Yorkies in moderation:

Fruits: Apples (without the core and seeds), bananas, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, watermelon (seeds removed)
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, green beans, peas, sweet potatoes (cooked), broccoli (cooked)
Proteins: Cooked chicken, lean beef, turkey (no bones)
Dairy: Plain yogurt (unsweetened), cheese (in moderation)
Grains: Cooked brown rice, oatmeal (plain)
Other: Peanut butter (xylitol-free), cooked sweet potato, cooked eggs

Remember, moderation is key. While these foods can be treats, they should never replace a balanced diet specifically formulated for dogs.

Always consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of treats for your Yorkie’s individual needs.

Can Yorkies eat rice?

Yes, Yorkies can eat rice, but it’s important to choose the right kind and prepare it properly. Cooked brown rice is generally considered a safe and healthy option for Yorkies. It’s a good source of fiber and other nutrients, which can be beneficial for their digestive system.

White rice, on the other hand, is less nutritious and may cause digestive upset in some Yorkies. It’s best to avoid white rice or limit it to occasional treats. Here are some key points to remember about feeding rice to your Yorkie:

Always cook the rice thoroughly: Uncooked rice can be difficult for Yorkies to digest and could lead to digestive problems.
Avoid adding salt, spices, or seasonings: These ingredients can be harmful to your Yorkie’s health.
Offer rice in moderation: While rice can be a healthy treat, it should not be a regular part of your Yorkie’s diet.

Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods to your Yorkie’s diet, including rice. They can help you determine the appropriate amount and frequency of rice treats.

Can Yorkies eat peanut butter?

Peanut butter can be a delicious and healthy treat for Yorkies, but only if it’s xylitol-free. Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is extremely toxic to dogs and can be fatal even in small amounts. Many popular peanut butter brands contain xylitol, so it’s essential to carefully read the label and choose a xylitol-free option.

Here are some tips for feeding peanut butter to your Yorkie:

Always choose xylitol-free peanut butter: This is absolutely essential for your Yorkie’s safety. Look for peanut butter specifically labeled “xylitol-free.”
Offer peanut butter in moderation: Peanut butter is high in fat and calories, so it should be given as a treat only in small amounts.
Feed peanut butter on a spoon or in a Kong: This helps prevent your Yorkie from swallowing large chunks of peanut butter, which can be a choking hazard.

Peanut butter can be a great way to hide medication or make training more fun for your Yorkie. However, always supervise your Yorkie when they are eating peanut butter and ensure they are not consuming too much.

Can Yorkies eat sweet potatoes?

Yes, Yorkies can enjoy sweet potatoes, but only when cooked and in moderation. Sweet potatoes are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a nutritious treat for your furry friend. However, raw sweet potatoes can be difficult for Yorkies to digest and could cause digestive problems.

Here are some tips for feeding sweet potatoes to your Yorkie:

Cook the sweet potato thoroughly: Boiling, baking, or roasting are all safe cooking methods. Avoid frying or adding salt, sugar, or other seasonings.
Choose sweet potatoes that are free of mold or blemishes: These can be harmful to your Yorkie’s health.
Offer sweet potatoes in moderation: While sweet potatoes are a healthy treat, they should not be a regular part of your Yorkie’s diet.

Sweet potatoes can be a good source of fiber, which can help regulate your Yorkie’s digestion. If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount of sweet potatoes for your Yorkie, consult with your veterinarian.

Can Yorkies eat apples?

Yes, Yorkies can eat apples, but it’s important to remove the core and seeds. Apples are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them a healthy and tasty treat for your furry friend. However, the core and seeds of apples contain cyanide, which is toxic to dogs.

Here are some tips for feeding apples to your Yorkie:

Remove the core and seeds: This is crucial to avoid any potential toxicity.
Cut the apple into small pieces: This will help prevent choking hazards.
Offer apples in moderation: Apples are high in sugar, so they should be given as a treat only in small amounts.

You can either offer apples as a whole piece, cut into smaller pieces, or even slice them thinly and add them to your Yorkie’s food. Always supervise your Yorkie when they are eating apples and ensure they are not consuming the core or seeds.

Can Yorkies eat bananas?

Yes, Yorkies can eat bananas, but in moderation. Bananas are a good source of potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, making them a healthy and delicious treat for your Yorkie. However, bananas are high in sugar, so they should be given sparingly.

Here are some tips for feeding bananas to your Yorkie:

Choose ripe bananas: Ripe bananas are softer and easier for Yorkies to eat.
Cut the banana into small pieces: This will help prevent choking hazards.
Offer bananas in moderation: Bananas are high in sugar, so they should be given as a treat only in small amounts.

Bananas can be a good source of potassium, which is important for muscle function and nerve health. If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount of bananas for your Yorkie, consult with your veterinarian.

Can Yorkies eat carrots?

Yes, Yorkies can eat carrots, and they are actually a great treat for them! Carrots are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy and satisfying snack. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is essential for good vision.

Here are some tips for feeding carrots to your Yorkie:

Choose fresh carrots: Avoid carrots that are wilted or have mold on them.
Wash the carrots thoroughly: This will remove any dirt or bacteria.
Cut the carrots into small pieces: This will make them easier for your Yorkie to eat and prevent choking hazards.
Offer carrots in moderation: While carrots are healthy, they should not be a regular part of your Yorkie’s diet.

Carrots can be a great way to keep your Yorkie’s teeth clean and healthy, as they help to scrape away plaque. You can offer carrots raw or cooked, but cooked carrots may be easier for your Yorkie to digest.

Can Yorkies eat cheese?

Yes, Yorkies can eat cheese, but in moderation. Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, which can be beneficial for your Yorkie’s bones and muscles. However, cheese is also high in fat and calories, so it should be given as a treat only in small amounts.

Here are some tips for feeding cheese to your Yorkie:

Choose low-fat cheese: This will help reduce the calorie intake.
Cut the cheese into small pieces: This will help prevent choking hazards.
Offer cheese in moderation: Cheese should be given as a treat only in small amounts.

Some types of cheese, such as blue cheese and Roquefort, are too strong for Yorkies to digest and can cause digestive upset. It’s best to stick to mild cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Swiss.

Can Yorkies eat eggs?

Yes, Yorkies can eat eggs, but it’s important to cook them thoroughly. Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a nutritious treat for your Yorkie. However, raw eggs can contain bacteria that can make your Yorkie sick. It’s also important to remove the shell, as it can be a choking hazard.

Here are some tips for feeding eggs to your Yorkie:

Cook the eggs thoroughly: Boiling, baking, or scrambling are all safe cooking methods.
Remove the shell: The shell can be a choking hazard for Yorkies.
Offer eggs in moderation: Eggs are high in protein, so they should be given as a treat only in small amounts.

Eggs can be a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. You can offer eggs whole or just the yolk. If you’re unsure about the appropriate amount of eggs for your Yorkie, consult with your veterinarian.

What human foods are toxic to Yorkies?

Many common human foods are toxic to Yorkies and can cause serious health problems. Some of the most common toxic foods for Yorkies include:

Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, and seizures.
Grapes and raisins: Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs. They can cause kidney failure, even in small amounts.
Onions and garlic: Onions and garlic contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to anemia.
Macadamia nuts: Macadamia nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and paralysis in dogs.
Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause liver failure, even in small amounts.
Alcohol: Alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coma, and even death.
Caffeine: Caffeine is toxic to dogs and can cause restlessness, hyperactivity, vomiting, and seizures.
Avocados: Avocados contain persin, which is toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.
Mushrooms: Some types of mushrooms are toxic to dogs. It’s best to avoid feeding mushrooms to your Yorkie.
Salt: Too much salt can cause dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs.
Sugar: Sugar is not good for your Yorkie’s health. It can cause weight gain, dental problems, and other health issues.

This is not an exhaustive list, so it’s important to always research the safety of any food before giving it to your Yorkie. If you are unsure whether a food is safe, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and avoid it.

Always consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your Yorkie has eaten something toxic. They can help you determine the best course of action.

What are some healthy treats for Yorkies?

Besides the human foods listed above, there are many commercial dog treats available that are safe and healthy for Yorkies. Look for treats that are:

Low in calories and fat: This will help prevent weight gain.
Made with high-quality ingredients: Choose treats made with natural ingredients and avoid those containing artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Appropriate for your Yorkie’s age and size: Some treats are specifically formulated for puppies or senior dogs.

You can also try making your own dog treats at home using healthy ingredients like peanut butter (xylitol-free), banana, sweet potato, or apples. Just be sure to avoid any toxic ingredients.

Always give treats in moderation and make sure they are not replacing your Yorkie’s regular food.

What are some general tips for feeding Yorkies?

Here are some general tips for feeding Yorkies:

Feed your Yorkie a balanced diet: Choose a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food for your Yorkie’s age, size, and activity level.
Feed your Yorkie twice a day: This will help prevent overeating and maintain a consistent blood sugar level.
Provide fresh water at all times: Yorkies need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if they are active.
Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which can cause a number of health problems. Follow your veterinarian’s feeding guidelines carefully.
Monitor your Yorkie’s weight: Keep track of your Yorkie’s weight and adjust their food intake as needed. Consult with your veterinarian if you notice any significant weight gain or loss.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your Yorkie gets the nutrition they need to live a long and healthy life.

Table summarizing information about safe and toxic human foods for Yorkies

Food	Safe for Yorkies?	Notes
Rice (cooked brown rice)	Yes	Cook thoroughly, avoid adding salt, spices, or seasonings.
Peanut butter	Yes (xylitol-free)	Choose xylitol-free options, offer in moderation, and feed on a spoon or in a Kong.
Sweet potato (cooked)	Yes	Cook thoroughly, avoid adding salt, sugar, or other seasonings.
Apples (core and seeds removed)	Yes	Remove core and seeds, cut into small pieces.
Bananas	Yes	Choose ripe bananas, cut into small pieces.
Carrots	Yes	Wash thoroughly, cut into small pieces.
Cheese (low-fat)	Yes	Choose low-fat cheese, cut into small pieces.
Eggs (cooked thoroughly)	Yes	Cook thoroughly, remove shell.
Chocolate	No	Toxic, even in small amounts.
Grapes and raisins	No	Highly toxic, can cause kidney failure.
Onions and garlic	No	Toxic, can damage red blood cells.
Macadamia nuts	No	Toxic, can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and paralysis.
Xylitol	No	Extremely toxic, can cause liver failure.
Alcohol	No	Toxic, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, coma, and death.
Caffeine	No	Toxic, can cause restlessness, hyperactivity, vomiting, and seizures.
Avocados	No	Toxic, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory problems.
Mushrooms	No	Some types are toxic, avoid feeding to Yorkies.
Salt (excess)	No	Can cause dehydration, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Sugar	No	Not good for Yorkies, can cause weight gain, dental problems, and other health issues.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about feeding Yorkies:

Can Yorkies eat bread?

Yes, Yorkies can eat bread, but it’s important to choose the right kind and prepare it properly. Plain, white bread is generally considered safe for Yorkies in moderation. It’s a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide energy for your dog. However, avoid bread with added sugars, salts, or other seasonings. Also, make sure the bread is fully cooked and cooled before giving it to your Yorkie. Bread should only be a rare treat and should never replace a balanced diet specifically formulated for dogs.

Can Yorkies eat chicken?

Yes, Yorkies can eat chicken, but it’s important to cook it thoroughly and remove any bones. Cooked chicken is a good source of protein and can be a healthy and delicious treat for your Yorkie. However, uncooked chicken can carry salmonella bacteria, which can make your dog sick. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked before offering it to your Yorkie. And remember, chicken bones are very brittle and can splinter, posing a choking hazard to your dog.

Can Yorkies eat fish?

Yes, Yorkies can eat fish, but it’s important to choose the right kind and prepare it properly. Cooked fish, such as salmon, tuna, or cod, is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for your dog’s health. However, raw fish can contain bacteria that can make your Yorkie sick. Make sure the fish is fully cooked before offering it to your Yorkie. And remember, avoid fish bones as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard.

Can Yorkies eat popcorn?

Yes, Yorkies can eat popcorn, but it’s important to choose the right kind and prepare it properly. Air-popped popcorn, without any butter, salt, or seasonings, is generally considered safe for Yorkies in moderation. It’s a good source of fiber and can be a fun and crunchy treat. However, avoid popcorn that has been buttered, salted, or seasoned, as these ingredients can be harmful to your Yorkie’s health. Also, be sure the popcorn is completely cooled before feeding it to your dog, as hot popcorn can burn your Yorkie’s mouth.

Can Yorkies eat yogurt?

Yes, Yorkies can eat yogurt, but it’s important to choose the right kind and prepare it properly. Plain, unsweetened yogurt is generally considered safe for Yorkies in moderation. It’s a good source of calcium and probiotics, which are beneficial for your dog’s gut health. However, avoid yogurt that is flavored, sweetened, or contains added sugars, as these ingredients can be harmful to your Yorkie’s health.

Can Yorkies eat strawberries?

Yes, Yorkies can eat strawberries, but in moderation. Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, which are beneficial for your Yorkie’s overall health. They are also a delicious and refreshing treat. However, strawberries are high in sugar, so they should be given sparingly. Before feeding strawberries to your Yorkie, make sure they are washed thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides. And remember to remove the stem and leaves before offering the strawberries to your dog.

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What are Yorkie-friendly human foods