The Ultimate Guide to Feeding Your Yorkie: Answering Your Top Questions

Yorkies are known for their adorable looks, playful personalities, and affectionate nature. These small but mighty dogs require a nutritious diet to thrive and maintain their health. However, with so many different food options available, it can be overwhelming for Yorkie owners to determine the best diet for their furry friend.

This comprehensive guide answers the most frequently asked questions about feeding Yorkies, providing you with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about your dog’s diet.

What is the healthiest diet for Yorkies?

Feeding your Yorkie a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall well-being. A high-quality, commercially prepared dog food that meets the nutritional needs of small breed dogs is the ideal choice.

These foods are formulated with specific ingredients and ratios of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that support the unique nutritional requirements of small breeds like Yorkies.

Look for dog food brands that:

• Are specifically formulated for small breed dogs
• Use high-quality animal protein as the first ingredient
• Contain essential vitamins and minerals for optimal health
• Are free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

When choosing a diet for your Yorkie, consider their age, activity level, and any health conditions they may have. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate diet for your individual dog.

What should I feed my Yorkie puppy?

Feeding a Yorkie puppy the right diet is essential for their growth and development. Puppy food is specifically formulated to provide the extra nutrients and calories that puppies need for their rapid growth.

Look for puppy food that is specifically designed for small breed puppies. It should contain high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support bone and joint development, as well as a strong immune system.

Here are some things to keep in mind when feeding your Yorkie puppy:

• Feed several small meals throughout the day, as puppies have smaller stomachs.
• Gradually transition your puppy to adult food around 1 year of age, as their nutritional needs change.
• Avoid feeding your puppy table scraps, as they can be unhealthy and lead to digestive issues.
• Ensure your puppy has access to fresh water at all times.

How much should I feed my Yorkie?

The amount of food your Yorkie needs will vary depending on their age, activity level, and metabolism. The best way to determine the appropriate portion size is to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.

Here are some general guidelines for feeding Yorkies:

Age	Daily Food Intake (cups)
Puppy (up to 6 months)	1/4 – 1/2 cup
Adult (6 months – 7 years)	1/2 – 1 cup
Senior (7 years and up)	1/2 – 3/4 cup

It’s important to avoid overfeeding your Yorkie, as this can lead to obesity and health problems. Monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their food intake as needed. It’s also a good idea to split their daily food ration into two meals.

What are the best human foods for Yorkies?

While a complete and balanced dog food should be the foundation of your Yorkie’s diet, you can occasionally offer them small amounts of healthy human foods as treats.

Here are some human foods that are safe for Yorkies in moderation:

• Fruits: Apples (without seeds), bananas, blueberries, cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon
• Vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, carrots, green beans, peas, spinach, sweet potatoes
• Proteins: Cooked chicken, lean ground beef, turkey
• Dairy: Plain yogurt (unsweetened), cheese (in moderation)

It’s essential to avoid feeding your Yorkie foods that are toxic to dogs, including:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Avocado
• Alcohol
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener)

What are some healthy treats for Yorkies?

Treating your Yorkie is a great way to bond and reward good behavior. However, it’s important to choose healthy treats that are low in calories and fat.

Here are some healthy treat options for Yorkies:

• Commercial dog treats: Look for treats that are specifically formulated for small breeds and are low in calories, fat, and artificial ingredients.
• Homemade treats: You can make healthy treats at home using ingredients like sweet potatoes, bananas, and peanut butter (ensure it is xylitol-free).
• Fruits and vegetables: Small pieces of fruits and vegetables like blueberries, carrots, and green beans can be a healthy and tasty treat for your Yorkie.

Remember to limit treats to a small portion of your Yorkie’s daily calorie intake.

What are the signs of a Yorkie with food allergies?

Yorkies can develop food allergies just like humans. If your Yorkie is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, they may be suffering from a food allergy:

• Skin problems, such as itching, redness, and hair loss
• Digestive issues, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and gas
• Ear infections
• Paw licking
• Sneezing and runny nose

If you suspect your Yorkie has a food allergy, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform allergy testing and recommend a hypoallergenic diet to manage your dog’s symptoms.

What is the best food for a Yorkie with a sensitive stomach?

Yorkies are prone to sensitive stomachs, and certain foods can trigger digestive upset. If your Yorkie has a sensitive stomach, you need to choose a diet that is gentle on their digestive system.

Here are some tips for feeding a Yorkie with a sensitive stomach:

• Choose a high-quality food with easily digestible ingredients: Look for foods with ingredients like chicken, brown rice, and sweet potatoes.
• Avoid foods with high fat content: High-fat foods can be difficult for Yorkies to digest.
• Feed several small meals throughout the day: This can help prevent overeating and reduce the risk of digestive upset.
• Avoid sudden changes in diet: Gradual transitions to new foods can help prevent digestive issues.
• Consider a grain-free diet: Some Yorkies with sensitive stomachs may tolerate grain-free foods better.
• Supplement with probiotics: Probiotics can help support a healthy gut microbiome.

If your Yorkie’s digestive issues persist, consult with your veterinarian to rule out other underlying conditions.

What are the best foods for a senior Yorkie?

As Yorkies age, their nutritional needs change. Senior Yorkies require a diet that is specifically designed to support their aging bodies.

Senior dog food is formulated with lower calorie content and higher levels of certain nutrients to support joint health, immune function, and cognitive function. Look for senior dog food that is specifically designed for small breed dogs.

Here are some tips for feeding a senior Yorkie:

• Choose a senior dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.
• Monitor their weight and adjust food intake as needed.
• Provide access to fresh water at all times.
• Consider adding supplements to their diet, such as joint support supplements, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

What are some tips for feeding a picky Yorkie?

Some Yorkies can be notoriously picky eaters. If your Yorkie is refusing to eat, there are a few things you can try:

• Warm the food: Warming the food slightly can make it more appealing.
• Add a topper: Adding a small amount of wet food or a healthy treat to their dry food can make it more enticing.
• Change the food bowl: Some Yorkies may prefer a different type of bowl. Try a ceramic bowl, a stainless steel bowl, or even a puzzle feeder.
• Feed them in a quiet location: Distraction can make it difficult for your Yorkie to focus on their food.
• Consult with your veterinarian: If your Yorkie continues to refuse to eat, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Should I feed my Yorkie a raw diet?

Raw diets are becoming increasingly popular for dogs, but they are not without their risks. A raw diet can be beneficial for some dogs, but it’s crucial to do your research and consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Yorkie is getting the proper nutrition.

Here are some things to consider if you’re thinking about feeding your Yorkie a raw diet:

• Safety: Raw meat can contain bacteria that can be harmful to humans and dogs. It’s essential to handle raw food with care and to ensure that your Yorkie is not consuming any raw meat that is contaminated.
• Nutrition: It’s difficult to create a balanced raw diet at home, as it requires specialized knowledge of dog nutrition. It’s essential to work with a veterinarian or certified pet nutritionist to ensure your Yorkie is getting all the nutrients they need.
• Cost: Raw diets can be more expensive than commercially prepared food.
• Time commitment: Preparing a raw diet can be time-consuming, as it requires sourcing ingredients and preparing meals.

Can I give my Yorkie human food scraps?

While some human foods can be safe for Yorkies in moderation, it’s generally not recommended to feed them table scraps. Table scraps are often high in fat, salt, and sugar, which can be harmful to dogs.

Additionally, some human foods are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions. It’s best to stick to a complete and balanced dog food and provide healthy treats in moderation.

What are the best foods to avoid giving my Yorkie?

There are a number of foods that are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all times. Here are some of the most common toxic foods for Yorkies:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts
• Avocado
• Alcohol
• Xylitol (an artificial sweetener)
• Yeast dough
• Raw meat and bones
• Cooked bones

If you suspect your Yorkie has ingested any of these foods, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Can Yorkies eat chicken bones?

No, Yorkies should not eat chicken bones, or any cooked bones, for that matter. Cooked bones can splinter and cause serious internal injuries, including choking, gastrointestinal perforation, and even death.

If you’re looking for safe and healthy chew toys, consider offering your Yorkie raw, meaty bones, such as beef knuckles, or commercial chew toys made from durable materials. Always supervise your Yorkie when they are chewing on any object to prevent them from swallowing anything that could pose a choking hazard.

What are some tips for transitioning my Yorkie to a new diet?

It’s important to transition your Yorkie to a new diet gradually to minimize the risk of digestive upset. Here are some tips for making a smooth transition:

• Mix the new food with their current food: Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the ratio of new food over several days.
• Feed small, frequent meals: This can help to reduce the risk of digestive issues during the transition.
• Monitor for any signs of digestive upset: If you notice any signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or gas, decrease the amount of new food and consult with your veterinarian.

What are the signs of a Yorkie who is not getting enough food?

If your Yorkie is not getting enough food, they may exhibit several signs, including:

• Weight loss
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Hair loss
• Increased thirst
• Loss of appetite

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and to ensure your Yorkie is getting the proper nutrition.

What is the best food for a Yorkie with pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a serious condition that can cause inflammation of the pancreas. If your Yorkie has pancreatitis, it’s crucial to follow a diet that is low in fat and easily digestible.

Your veterinarian can recommend the best diet for your Yorkie based on the severity of their pancreatitis. They may recommend a prescription diet, a commercially prepared low-fat food, or a homemade diet that is carefully formulated to meet their nutritional needs. It’s essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely to help your Yorkie recover from pancreatitis.

How to keep my Yorkie’s weight in check?

Obesity is a common problem in Yorkies, and it can lead to several health issues, including joint problems, diabetes, and heart disease.

Here are some tips for keeping your Yorkie’s weight in check:

• Choose a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age and activity level.
• Feed them the recommended amount of food.
• Avoid overfeeding.
• Limit treats and table scraps.
• Provide regular exercise.
• Monitor their weight and adjust their food intake as needed.
• Consult with your veterinarian if you have concerns about your Yorkie’s weight.

What are the best food brands for Yorkies?

There are many reputable dog food brands available, and the best brand for your Yorkie will depend on their individual needs.

Here are some popular dog food brands that are often recommended for Yorkies:

• Purina Pro Plan
• Royal Canin
• Hill’s Science Diet
• Eukanuba
• Iams

It’s essential to read the ingredient list and nutritional information to choose a food that is appropriate for your Yorkie’s age, activity level, and any health conditions they may have. It’s also a good idea to consult with your veterinarian for personalized recommendations.

Table Summarizing Information

Topic	Key Points
Healthy Diet	High-quality commercial dog food, specifically formulated for small breed dogs, balanced nutrition, consult with veterinarian
Puppy Diet	Puppy food designed for small breed puppies, high-quality protein, healthy fats, essential nutrients, gradual transition to adult food
Food Amount	Varies based on age, activity, metabolism, consult with veterinarian, avoid overfeeding
Safe Human Foods	Fruits, vegetables, cooked lean protein, dairy in moderation, avoid toxic foods
Healthy Treats	Commercial dog treats, homemade treats, fruits and vegetables, limit treats
Food Allergies	Signs include skin problems, digestive issues, ear infections, consult with veterinarian
Sensitive Stomach	Easily digestible ingredients, low fat, frequent meals, gradual transitions, consider grain-free or probiotics
Senior Diet	Senior dog food for small breeds, lower calories, higher levels of nutrients for joint, immune, and cognitive support
Picky Eaters	Warm food, add toppers, change bowls, feed in quiet location, consult veterinarian
Raw Diet	Consider safety, nutrition, cost, time commitment, consult with veterinarian
Human Food Scraps	Generally not recommended, avoid toxic foods, stick to dog food and healthy treats
Toxic Foods	Chocolate, grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, avocado, alcohol, xylitol, yeast dough, raw meat/bones, cooked bones
Chicken Bones	Avoid cooked bones, can splinter and cause injury, offer raw meaty bones or safe chew toys
Diet Transitions	Gradual transition, mix new food with old, feed small frequent meals, monitor for digestive upset
Food Deficiency	Weight loss, lethargy, weakness, hair loss, increased thirst, loss of appetite, consult veterinarian
Pancreatitis Diet	Low-fat, easily digestible, consult veterinarian for recommended diet
Weight Management	High-quality food, appropriate portion sizes, limit treats, provide exercise, monitor weight
Recommended Food Brands	Purina Pro Plan, Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, Eukanuba, Iams, consult with veterinarian

FAQ

What are the best dry food brands for Yorkies?

Some highly recommended dry food brands for Yorkies include:

• Purina Pro Plan
• Royal Canin
• Hill’s Science Diet
• Eukanuba
• Iams

However, it’s crucial to choose a specific formula that caters to your Yorkie’s age, activity level, and any health conditions they might have. Always read the ingredient list and nutritional information carefully.

How often should I feed my Yorkie puppy?

Yorkie puppies need frequent meals to support their rapid growth. It’s generally recommended to feed puppies 3-4 times a day until they reach around 6 months of age. You can then transition to 2 meals a day for adult Yorkies.

Can I give my Yorkie human food like chicken and rice?

While cooked chicken and rice are generally safe for dogs in moderation, it shouldn’t be a regular part of their diet. A complete and balanced dog food should form the basis of your Yorkie’s nutrition. Human food can be used as occasional treats or supplements.

What are some good bone alternatives for chewing?

Since cooked bones are dangerous for Yorkies, here are some safe alternatives for chewing:

• Raw, meaty bones (like beef knuckles) – always under supervision
• Durable chew toys made from rubber, nylon, or other safe materials
• Dental chews that help with plaque and tartar control

How can I tell if my Yorkie is overweight?

You can assess your Yorkie’s weight by feeling their ribs. If you can easily feel their ribs without having to press too hard, they’re likely at a healthy weight. If you can’t feel their ribs or they’re covered in a thick layer of fat, they may be overweight. Consult your veterinarian for a more accurate assessment and weight management plan.

Are there any specific foods I should avoid for a Yorkie with a sensitive stomach?

Yorkies with sensitive stomachs often react poorly to high-fat foods, rich ingredients, and those high in fiber. Avoid fatty treats, greasy table scraps, and foods like red meat or dairy products. Stick to easily digestible options like cooked chicken, fish, sweet potatoes, and rice.

Can I give my Yorkie peanut butter?

Peanut butter can be a healthy treat for Yorkies, but only if it is xylitol-free. Xylitol is a common sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Look for peanut butter explicitly labeled as xylitol-free and offer it in moderation as a treat.