What Foods Upset a Yorkie’s Stomach?

Yorkshire Terriers, with their charming personalities and playful spirit, are beloved companions. However, their small stature and sensitive digestive systems can sometimes make them prone to stomach upset. Understanding what foods cause digestive issues in Yorkies is crucial for their well-being. This comprehensive guide will delve into the common culprits behind an upset stomach in Yorkies and provide practical tips for preventing and managing these digestive woes.

Identifying the cause of a Yorkie’s upset stomach is essential for providing appropriate treatment. This article will address 10 frequently asked questions about food sensitivities in Yorkies, offering insights into the most common offenders.

What are the most common foods that upset a Yorkie’s stomach?

Certain foods are notorious for causing digestive discomfort in Yorkies. Here are some of the most common offenders:

Fatty Foods: Rich and fatty foods, such as bacon, cheese, and table scraps, can be difficult for Yorkies to digest, leading to indigestion, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Bones: While some people believe bones are beneficial for dogs, cooked bones can splinter and cause internal damage. Raw bones can also pose choking hazards and lead to digestive issues.
Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs, containing theobromine, a substance that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, and even death. Even small amounts can be dangerous for Yorkies.
Grapes and Raisins: These seemingly innocuous fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, leading to serious health complications. Even a few grapes or raisins can be detrimental to a Yorkie’s health.
Onions and Garlic: These vegetables contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to anemia. Large quantities can cause severe gastrointestinal upset.
Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs, leading to liver failure and even death.
Dairy Products: Some Yorkies may be lactose intolerant, experiencing gas, bloating, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
Raw Meat: While raw meat can be part of a balanced diet for some dogs, it carries risks of bacterial contamination. Raw meat should be handled with care and fed in moderation to minimize the risk of illness.

It’s important to note that the specific foods that upset a Yorkie’s stomach can vary from dog to dog. Some Yorkies may tolerate certain foods while others experience problems. Therefore, it’s crucial to observe your Yorkie’s reactions to different foods and consult your veterinarian if you notice any signs of digestive upset.

What are some signs that my Yorkie has an upset stomach?

Recognizing the signs of an upset stomach in your Yorkie is crucial for addressing the issue promptly. Here are some common symptoms:

Vomiting: Vomiting can range from mild to severe, with the frequency and contents varying. If your Yorkie vomits frequently or with blood, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention.
Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools are another sign of digestive upset. If diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, a vet visit is recommended.
Loss of Appetite: A decrease in appetite can indicate a digestive issue. If your Yorkie refuses to eat for more than a day, consult your veterinarian.
Abdominal Pain: Your Yorkie may show signs of abdominal pain by whimpering, vocalizing, or pressing their abdomen. If you notice any signs of discomfort, it’s important to seek veterinary care.
Gas and Bloating: Excessive gas and bloating can be symptoms of digestive upset, particularly after eating certain foods.

If you suspect your Yorkie has an upset stomach, it’s essential to monitor their symptoms closely. If they worsen or persist, contact your veterinarian for guidance.

What should I do if my Yorkie has an upset stomach?

When your Yorkie experiences an upset stomach, it’s important to take immediate action. Here’s what you can do:

Withhold Food: For a few hours, refrain from giving your Yorkie any food. This allows their digestive system to rest and recover.
Offer Water: Ensure your Yorkie has access to fresh, clean water to stay hydrated.
Monitor Symptoms: Observe your Yorkie closely for any changes in their symptoms, such as worsening vomiting or diarrhea.
Consult Your Veterinarian: If the symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian promptly. They can assess the situation, identify the cause, and recommend appropriate treatment.
Follow Your Veterinarian’s Instructions: Once your veterinarian has diagnosed the cause of your Yorkie’s upset stomach, follow their instructions for treatment and care meticulously.

Remember, prompt veterinary attention can make a significant difference in your Yorkie’s recovery. Don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance if you are concerned about their health.

What are some foods that are good for a Yorkie’s stomach?

Providing your Yorkie with a healthy diet that supports their digestive health is crucial for their well-being. Here are some foods that are generally well-tolerated by Yorkies:

High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a dog food specifically formulated for small breeds and that is made with high-quality ingredients. Look for foods with meat as the first ingredient, avoiding fillers like grains or by-products.
Plain Cooked Chicken or Turkey: These lean protein sources are easily digestible for Yorkies and can be a good option if they’re experiencing digestive upset.
Cooked Rice or Oatmeal: These bland grains can help soothe the stomach and provide fiber. You can add a small amount of cooked chicken or turkey for added protein.
Plain Yogurt (Plain, Unsweetened): Some Yorkies may tolerate plain, unsweetened yogurt, which contains probiotics that can help promote gut health.
Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree is a good source of fiber and can aid in digestion. Add a small amount to your Yorkie’s food or give it as a treat.

It’s essential to consult your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your Yorkie’s diet, especially if they have underlying health conditions.

Can I give my Yorkie probiotics?

Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health, can be helpful for some Yorkies. They can help restore balance in the gut microbiome, which is essential for proper digestion. However, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian before giving your Yorkie probiotics, as they can sometimes interact with other medications or health conditions.

If your veterinarian approves, you can find probiotic supplements specifically formulated for dogs. Look for products with a variety of strains of beneficial bacteria and ensure they are high-quality and safe for your Yorkie.

What are some tips for preventing my Yorkie from getting an upset stomach?

Prevention is key to ensuring your Yorkie’s digestive health. Here are some tips for minimizing the risk of an upset stomach:

Feed a Balanced Diet: Provide a high-quality dog food that is specifically formulated for small breeds. Avoid feeding table scraps or human foods that can upset their stomach.
Avoid Toxic Foods: Keep all potentially harmful foods out of reach of your Yorkie, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and bones.
Feed Small Meals: Instead of one large meal, divide your Yorkie’s daily food into smaller portions throughout the day. This can help prevent overeating and digestive stress.
Provide Fresh Water: Ensure your Yorkie always has access to fresh, clean water. Hydration is crucial for digestion.
Monitor Their Eating Habits: Pay attention to your Yorkie’s eating habits, looking for any changes in their appetite, food intake, or bowel movements.
Consult Your Veterinarian: If you notice any changes in your Yorkie’s health, consult your veterinarian. They can help identify any underlying issues and provide appropriate advice.

How can I tell if my Yorkie’s upset stomach is something more serious?

While a simple upset stomach is often a temporary inconvenience, there are signs that it could be something more serious. If your Yorkie exhibits any of the following symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately:

Persistent Vomiting: If your Yorkie vomits repeatedly or with blood, it’s a sign of a potential underlying medical issue.
Severe Diarrhea: Persistent diarrhea, especially if it’s watery or bloody, requires prompt veterinary care.
Loss of Appetite: A complete loss of appetite for more than a day can indicate a serious medical condition.
Lethargy and Weakness: If your Yorkie appears lethargic, weak, or unable to stand, seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Abdominal Pain: Severe abdominal pain, characterized by groaning, whimpering, or pressing on their abdomen, necessitates immediate veterinary attention.
Dehydration: Signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, dry gums, and decreased skin elasticity, require prompt veterinary treatment.

Remember, your Yorkie’s health is your top priority. If you notice any concerning symptoms, don’t delay in seeking professional veterinary care.

Can I give my Yorkie home remedies for an upset stomach?

While some home remedies might provide temporary relief, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian before administering any remedies to your Yorkie. Home remedies can sometimes mask underlying issues or interact with medications.

If your veterinarian approves, some safe home remedies for a mild upset stomach include:

Bland Diet: For a few meals, feed your Yorkie a bland diet of cooked chicken or turkey with cooked rice or oatmeal.
Bone Broth: Diluted bone broth can be a soothing option for an upset stomach. Be sure to choose a broth specifically made for dogs and avoid any broth that contains onion or garlic.
Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree can aid in digestion and help solidify stools. Add a small amount to your Yorkie’s food or give it as a treat.
Probiotics: If approved by your veterinarian, you can give your Yorkie a probiotic supplement to help restore balance in their gut microbiome.

Remember, home remedies should only be used in conjunction with your veterinarian’s advice and guidance. It’s crucial to seek professional care if your Yorkie’s symptoms worsen or persist.

What are some foods that I should never feed my Yorkie?

It’s crucial to be aware of the foods that are toxic or harmful to Yorkies. These foods should be kept out of reach and never given to your furry friend:

Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance that is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, seizures, and even death.
Grapes and Raisins: These fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, leading to serious health complications. Avoid giving your Yorkie even a few grapes or raisins.
Onions and Garlic: These vegetables contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to anemia. Avoid feeding your Yorkie onions or garlic in any form.
Xylitol: This artificial sweetener is commonly found in sugar-free gum, candy, and baked goods. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs and can lead to liver failure and death.
Macadamia Nuts: These nuts can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and hyperthermia in dogs. Keep macadamia nuts away from your Yorkie.
Avocados: Avocados contain persin, a toxin that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory distress in dogs.
Cooked Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause internal damage. Stick to safe chew toys or raw bones for chewing.
Alcohol: Alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause severe health problems, including liver failure and death. Never give your Yorkie alcoholic beverages.
Yeast Dough: Unbaked yeast dough can rise in a dog’s stomach, causing bloating, gas, and even life-threatening conditions. Keep yeast dough away from your Yorkie.

Remember, prevention is the best medicine. By keeping these toxic foods out of reach, you can ensure your Yorkie’s safety and prevent a potential digestive emergency.

What are some other reasons my Yorkie might have an upset stomach?

While food is often the culprit behind an upset stomach in Yorkies, there are other possible causes to consider. These include:

Parasites: Intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms, can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, and weight loss. Regular deworming is essential for preventing parasitic infections.
Bacterial Infections: Bacteria can infect the digestive system, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. If you suspect a bacterial infection, consult your veterinarian promptly.
Viral Infections: Viruses can also cause gastrointestinal distress in dogs, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you suspect a viral infection, seek veterinary care immediately.
Stress: Stress can impact a dog’s digestive system, leading to an upset stomach. Identifying and addressing any stressors in your Yorkie’s environment can be helpful.
Medications: Certain medications can cause side effects such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your Yorkie is on medication, consult your veterinarian about potential digestive issues.
Pancreatitis: This inflammatory condition of the pancreas can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that requires prompt veterinary attention.
Foreign Objects: If your Yorkie has ingested a foreign object, such as a toy, sock, or bone, it can cause obstruction in the digestive tract, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It’s essential to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your Yorkie has swallowed a foreign object.
Food Allergies: Food allergies can cause digestive upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and itching. If you suspect your Yorkie has a food allergy, consult your veterinarian for allergy testing and dietary management.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): IBD is a chronic inflammatory condition of the digestive tract that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and abdominal pain. If you suspect IBD, consult your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

If you’re concerned about your Yorkie’s upset stomach, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate course of action.

What is the best way to keep my Yorkie’s stomach healthy?

Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for your Yorkie’s overall well-being. Here are some key steps you can take to support their gut health:

Feed a High-Quality Diet: Choose a dog food formulated for small breeds with high-quality ingredients. Look for foods with meat as the first ingredient and avoid fillers or by-products.
Avoid Toxic Foods: Keep all potentially harmful foods out of reach, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and bones.
Feed Small Meals: Divide your Yorkie’s daily food into smaller portions throughout the day to prevent overeating and digestive stress.
Provide Fresh Water: Ensure your Yorkie always has access to fresh, clean water for optimal hydration.
Regular Deworming: Consult your veterinarian about a deworming schedule to prevent parasitic infections.
Avoid Stress: Identify and address any stressors in your Yorkie’s environment to promote a healthy digestive system.
Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor your Yorkie’s health and detect any potential digestive issues early on.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure your Yorkie enjoys a healthy digestive system and a long, happy life.

Summary Table

Here is a summary table of the information discussed in this article:

Topic	Key Points
Common Foods That Upset a Yorkie’s Stomach	Fatty foods, bones, chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, dairy products, raw meat.
Signs of an Upset Stomach	Vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, gas, bloating.
Treatment for an Upset Stomach	Withhold food for a few hours, offer water, monitor symptoms, consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Foods Good for a Yorkie’s Stomach	High-quality dog food, plain cooked chicken or turkey, cooked rice or oatmeal, plain yogurt, pumpkin puree.
Preventing an Upset Stomach	Feed a balanced diet, avoid toxic foods, feed small meals, provide fresh water, monitor eating habits, consult a veterinarian for any changes in health.
Signs of a More Serious Problem	Persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness, abdominal pain, dehydration.
Home Remedies	Bland diet, bone broth, pumpkin puree, probiotics (with veterinarian approval).
Foods to Never Feed a Yorkie	Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, avocados, cooked bones, alcohol, yeast dough.
Other Causes of Upset Stomach	Parasites, bacterial infections, viral infections, stress, medications, pancreatitis, foreign objects, food allergies, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Maintaining a Healthy Stomach	Feed a high-quality diet, avoid toxic foods, feed small meals, provide fresh water, regular deworming, avoid stress, regular veterinary checkups.

FAQ

What if my Yorkie is vomiting and has diarrhea?

If your Yorkie is vomiting and has diarrhea, it’s important to consult your veterinarian promptly. These symptoms can indicate a variety of issues, including food poisoning, parasites, bacterial infections, or viral infections. Your veterinarian can help determine the cause and recommend the appropriate treatment.

How long should I withhold food from my Yorkie if they have an upset stomach?

You should withhold food from your Yorkie for a few hours, typically 12-24 hours, to allow their digestive system to rest and recover. However, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian for specific guidance based on your Yorkie’s individual situation and symptoms.

Can I give my Yorkie Pepto-Bismol for an upset stomach?

It’s not recommended to give your Yorkie Pepto-Bismol without consulting your veterinarian. While it can help with human digestive issues, it can be harmful to dogs and can interact with certain medications.

What should I do if my Yorkie is not eating or drinking?

If your Yorkie is not eating or drinking, it’s essential to contact your veterinarian immediately. This can indicate a serious medical issue, and prompt veterinary care is crucial.

What are some common signs of dehydration in Yorkies?

Common signs of dehydration in Yorkies include sunken eyes, dry gums, decreased skin elasticity (when you pinch the skin, it takes longer than usual to return to its original shape), and lethargy.

Can I give my Yorkie plain cooked chicken and rice for an upset stomach?

Yes, plain cooked chicken and rice are often recommended for Yorkies with upset stomachs, as they are bland and easily digestible. However, consult your veterinarian before making any significant changes to your Yorkie’s diet, especially if they have underlying health conditions.

Should I be worried if my Yorkie has occasional diarrhea?

Occasional diarrhea can be normal for Yorkies, especially if they have eaten something unusual or are experiencing stress. However, if diarrhea persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying issues.

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What foods upset Yorkie’s stomach