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With the large variety of dog foods available in the market, shopping for your beloved Yorkies or Yorkshire Terrier can sometimes become confusing. There are flavors, ingredients, kibble sizes, age specifications and so many other things to consider, and they can make it difficult for you to make a choice if you don’t know what you’re looking for.
So, we have curated a list of the ten best dog foods for Yorkies to help you make an informed decision. Now you can simply look through the options that cater specifically to the needs of Yorkies and choose the one you think is best for yours.
What Are Yorkies?
Yorkshire Terriers are a toy breed and are immensely popular globally and have a playful and obedient nature.
They have shrill barks and tend to bark a lot, though they can easily be trained to not do so. Though they have high energy levels, they are actually less active than other breeds.
Due to this, you need to make sure you’re feeding your dog the right food in the right quantity so that they can maintain their high energy levels.
What To Look For?
Before you move on to choosing a dog food, you should make sure you have ample knowledge about what is good for your Yorkie and what isn’t. Having a clear idea about your Yorkshire Terriers’ nutritional needs is always helpful, and will help your dog live a happy and long life.
1. Small Kibble Size
Since Yorkshire Terriers are a relatively small breed, it is hard for them to consume normal-sized kibbles, which might be too big or uncomfortable for them to eat. Their mouth and trachea are small, so tiny kibbles are appropriate for them. Lucky for you, small kibbles are sold widely, and are made specifically to fit the needs of small breed dogs.
2. Protein
If you’re shopping for a Yorkie puppy, make sure to buy something that has high protein content, because your puppy will need it to grow. Conversely, if your Yorkie is old, you will need relatively lower amounts of protein to meet the dog’s requirements, since he is no longer as active as he used to be.
You should always look for a dog food that incorporates high-quality protein into your dog’s diet. Look for options that have wholesome proteins as a primary ingredient, meaning it should be mentioned among the first three things in the list of ingredients. Always try to avoid foods that contain protein meal or by-products, especially as a primary ingredient, since they will fail to meet your dog’s nutritional requirements and not contribute much to his health.
3. Fat
Your dog’s food should contain adequate amounts of healthy fatty acids, which are essential for the maintenance of a healthy and luscious coat. Try looking for foods that contain omega-3 and omega-6, as well as DHA.
4. Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals derived from fresh fruits and vegetables are your best bet to ensure your Yorkie gets his fair share of nutrients. A good number of dog foods contain supplements to supply the required nutrients, and that is fine too. You should prioritize options that contain chelated minerals since they improve the absorption of nutrients.
5. Natural Ingredients
Natural ingredients facilitate the absorption of nutrients and are easy on your dog’s digestive system. They are certainly better than artificial ones.
6. Carbohydrates
When it comes to toys and small breeds, carbohydrates can sometimes be too harsh for their digestive systems, and so owners might seek grain-free and gluten-free alternatives. Grains often add no nutritional value to the diet and are difficult for them to digest. However, if you do wish to incorporate some carbs into your Yorkie’s diet, barley, peas sweet potato, flaxseed, and brown rice can be nourishing ingredients to consider.
What to Avoid?
There are often ingredients present in dog food that your dog does not require, and sometimes they end up doing more harm than good. You should stay away from dog foods that contain soy, wheat, or corn, especially if these ingredients appear at the beginning of the ingredient list. They offer little to no nutrients and might upset your dog’s digestion.
Also make sure to avoid added preservatives, colors and flavors, since they do not improve the quality of the food at all. You should also make sure that the food you are providing your dog does not contain any fillers. Bone meal and by-products are also useless ingredients that should be avoided since they contain rancid and cancerous tissues which are unhealthy for your dog. Ethoxyquin, a preservative used in dog food, should be avoided too since it causes more harm than good.
Top Dog Food For Yorkies
Now that you know the factors that can make certain dog food options stand out from the rest, here is a list of 10 great dog foods which will provide and even exceed your Yorkie’s dietary needs. This list has been curated by us to help you make the best choice for your furry baby.
1. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free
This Taste of The Wild dog food has been specially formulated to cater to the needs of small breeds and is therefore rich in nutrients and easily digestible.
It contains Venison, Lamb, and eggs which are great sources of protein and help strengthen and maintain lean muscles.
The fruits and vegetables in it are ideal sources of antioxidants, and this dog food even provides all the vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids your dog needs.
It contains beneficial probiotics which improve digestive health.
What we like:
- No added flavors, preservatives or colors
- Meant for small breeds
- Grain-free
- Easily digestible
- Contains probiotics
What we dislike:
- Contains plant protein
2. Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free
This option is best suited for senior Yorkies, who have specific needs since as they grow older their metabolism slows down but still remains faster than that of a large breed dog.
The deboned chicken in Merrick Lil Plates Grain Free, which is the primary ingredient, acts as a great source of animal protein, which is something your dog definitely needs.
It also contains easily digestible carbohydrates which fulfill the dog’s nutritional requirements without wreaking havoc on his digestive system.
The minimal fat content allows your elderly dog to maintain healthy body weight while the vitamins, minerals, prebiotic fibers, and probiotic supplements improve his overall health and allow better nutrient absorption.
What we like:
- Contains animal proteins
- Low-calorie count
- Contains supplements that improve digestive health
What we dislike:
- Contains pea protein and potato protein
3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed is one of the best options you can choose for your Yorkie and is ideal for small breeds in general.
The high-quality real chicken meat, which is the first ingredient, supplies your dog with the animal protein he needs and helps him maintain healthy and lean muscles. It also contains brown rice, barley, and tomatoes.
It contains DHA and ARA which improve retinal health and cognitive function, as well as fruits and vegetables. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in it work to improve your dog’s immunity and maintain oxidative balance.
This recipe does not contain any poultry by-products and is devoid of any artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
What we like:
- Contains real chicken
- Contains DHA and ARA
- Free of corn, wheat and soy
- Contains 32% protein
- Fortified with chelated minerals
What we dislike:
- Not grain free
4. Wellness Small Breed Complete Health for Puppies
Wellness Small Breed Complete Health for Puppies is without a doubt one of the best dog foods for Yorkie puppies. It contains Turkey and salmon meal as sources of animal protein.
The recipe contains ample fruits and vegetables which are necessary for providing your pup with essential nutrients.
This recipe provides your dog with probiotics that aid with digestion and the salmon oil in it provides DHA that promotes the proper functioning of the brain.
The vitamins and anti-oxidants improve overall health while the omega fatty acids promote the growth of a luscious coat and healthy skin.
The limited number of ingredients ensures that your puppy is only getting the foods he needs for his growth and that any possible allergens are eliminated from his diet.
What we like:
- Made in USA
- No GMOs
- No meat by-products or artificial additives
- No fillers
What we dislike:
- Not grain-free
5. Wellness Simple Natural Salmon and Potato
Wellness Simple Natural Salmon & Potato dog food contains fresh salmon, potato as well as salmon meal, meaning it is full of proteins that will improve your Yorkie’s health.
Your dog will be provided with sufficient quantities of healthy fat which improve skin and coat health, from the canola oil, flaxseed as well as salmon which is rich in omega-3.
The probiotics used as a supplement in this option improve your dog’s digestive health. Since this is a limited ingredient recipe, it is highly unlikely that your dog will experience an allergic reaction from its consumption.
The anti-oxidants, glucosamine, and taurine in this formula provide for improved heart health. This option contains carbohydrates that are easily digested and is free of any useless fillers as well.
What we like:
• Grain-free
• Limited ingredients
• Made in the USA
• Non-GMO ingredients
What we dislike:
• Contains protein meal
6. Hill’s Science Diet For Small Breeds
This Hill’s Science diet recipe for small dogs is made from chicken meal, rice, and other natural ingredients that are easy to digest.
The high-quality proteins in this meal promote the growth of healthy and lean muscles. The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E in it improve your Yorkie’s fur health and skin condition.
This veterinarian-recommended dog food has a relatively smaller kibble size, making it easier for Yorkies to eat. It also contains a special blend of anti-oxidants which strengthens the immunity system in small breeds.
Lastly, this option does not contain any added preservatives, color, or flavor, which makes it one of the best available options for teacup Yorkies.
What we like:
- Recommended by vets
- Small kibble size
- Easily digestible ingredients
- Made in the USA
What we dislike:
- Not grain-free
- Has a strong smell
7. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog is made specifically for Yorkshire Terriers above 10 months of age and therefore meets their nutritional requirements perfectly.
This loaf in sauce wet food is easy on the stomach and is digested well by the dog.
Chicken, the primary ingredient and a great source of protein, is supplemented with rice, egg, barley, and wheat.
The biotin, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids in this option promote healthy skin and fur, and the soluble and insoluble fibers enhance intestinal transit and improve digestion.
It also contains fish oil and taurine, which improves heart health and vision and prevents muscle degeneration.
What we like:
- No artificial preservatives, colors or flavors
- Promotes skin and fur health
- Facilitates heart and muscle health
What we dislike:
- Contains meat by-products
8. Cesar Gourmet Wet Dog Food
Cesar Gourmet Wet Food Dog comes with a variety of options that you can choose from, all of which are packed in easy to use trays that you can simply peel the cover off to use.
Animal protein is the main ingredient in this dog food, available in the form of duck, chicken, and turkey.
This recipe contains essential minerals and vitamins that will improve your Yorkie’s overall health.
The ingredients are all products of the USA, and the dog food can be consumed as is or mixed with dry dog food.
It is devoid of any added preservatives, colors, and flavors and provides your dog with a balanced diet.
What we like:
- Grain-free
- Available in a variety of flavors
- Animal protein is the primary ingredient
- The peel-away seal makes it convenient to use
What we dislike:
- It has a strong smell
9. Solid Gold Mighty Mini
Solid Gold Mighty Mini all-natural dog food contains lamb which is rich in protein, sweet potatoes that are rich in fiber, and cranberries that provide him with ample amounts of anti-oxidants.
The small size of the kibbles makes it perfect for your Yorkie, and this can be consumed by Yorkies of all ages, even puppies and senior dogs.
The probiotics and prebiotics improve your dog’s digestive and gut health, while the omega fatty acids improve coat and skin health.
This option is tailor-made for small and toy breeds and takes care of their nutritional needs with balanced levels of proteins, fibers, and fats which are derived from salmon oil, almond oil, and sesame oil.
What we like:
- Contains fresh fruits and vegetables which are good sources of vitamins
- Tiny kibble size makes it easier for your yorkie to eat
- Grain-free and gluten free
- Appropriate for yorkies of all ages
- Contains 30% crude protein, probiotics and prebiotics
What we dislike:
- None
10. Canidae All Life Stages Dry Dog Food
The Canidae All Life Stages dog food has been designed specifically for senior dogs.
Since older dogs do not have the same nutritional requirements as younger ones, this option provides them with just the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, and fibers.
It contains turkey, chicken, fish, and lamb meals as sources of protein, as well as oatmeal, rice, peas, and potatoes.
This dog food also comes in a wet food form, for elderly Yorkies who might have trouble chewing.
The probiotics promote healthy digestion and the omega fatty acids improve the quality of your dog’s fur and skin. It also contains antioxidants that boost your dog’s immune system.
What we like:
- It is made with whole food recipes
- It contains probiotics, fatty acids and antioxidants
- Corn, soy and wheat free
What we dislike:
- This option is not grain-free
Health Problems
Though it is really unfortunate, the reality is that toy breeds are likely to suffer from more health problems than other breeds. They are more prone to dental issues, and it might happen that their adult teeth start growing before the baby teeth fall out.
Crowding or retained teeth can lead to tooth decay, and worsen the dog’s health further. They are also much more prone to allergies than other dogs, and so special care must be taken to ensure that their food does not include any possible allergens. They are also likely to suffer from Patella Luxation, Bronchitis, and Cataract.
Small breeds are also highly affected by genetic conditions. They can also suffer from more serious health issues, such as a collapsed windpipe or a dislocated kneecap.
A collapsed windpipe, however, can be avoided if your Yorkie gets enough Chondroitin and Glucosamine from his diet. Since Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed and not as active as other dogs, they can grow fat easily, which in turn may trigger a handful of other health issues.
This is why you need to monitor their calorie intake and make sure they are only consuming easily digestible, low-calorie food. You should also space out your dog’s meals to keep flatulence and indigestion at bay.
Another major health issue you should be on alert for is Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar, which is common in toy breeds.
Yorkies cannot eat a lot in one sitting, which is something you should keep in mind while planning their meals. A lot of their pre-existing health issues can be brought under control if they get the necessary care and nutrients.
Since they can suffer from so many health issues, and probably already suffer from a few, you need to ensure that you are feeding them the best possible food to help them maintain good health so they can live a happy and balanced life.
FAQ
Wet or Dry Food?
Since there are two kinds of dog food available in terms of consistency, it can be especially hard to decide which one will be better for your Yorkshire Terrier. You should opt for dry food over wet food, which will be easier for them to consume as they have sensitive teeth. Soft foods are preferred for Yorkies since they can be consumed without causing much trouble to their small windpipe.
Are Yorkies Fussy Eaters?
They might often cultivate very specific eating habits due to the sensitivity of their teeth. However, this is not the only reason for them to do so, and often, Yorkies are simply fussy eaters by nature. Keep track of what foods your Yorkie eats calmly and what foods make him act fussy. Avoid giving your dog grains and pellets, since they can hurt his teeth, and eventually do enough damage to result in tooth loss.
They have small mouths and sensitive stomachs, which makes it hard for them to ingest certain foods. You should offer them small-sized kibble meant for small and toy breeds since they are appropriate for their small mouths and are designed to be easily digested.
How Much Should I Feed My Yorkie?
Adult Yorkshire Terriers usually eat 2 or more meals a day, whereas puppies might consume 3 or 4 meals to accommodate their growing body. However, you must keep in mind that each dog is different, and what works for one may not work for the other. Make sure your dog is satisfied with the amount of food he is getting, if not, increase or decrease it until you find out what’s right for him. It might also be a good idea to focus on your dog’s calorie intake and determine how many calories he usually eats since different foods have different calorie counts. Usually, since they have small stomachs and have trouble digesting large quantities of food, they should be eating several times a day.
Can I Feed My Yorkshire Terrier Fruits?
Soft fruits that are easy to chew are often enjoyed by Yorkies. It is a good idea to feed them fresh fruits and veggies, and they can be a great source of vitamins and minerals. Try feeding your dog bananas, kiwis, and oranges. You can also feed them with green beans, sweet potatoes, or zucchini.
Is There Anything That I Cannot Feed My Yorkie?
Yorkshire Terriers have very sensitive teeth and stomachs, which makes it hard for them to chew and swallow. In terms of homemade or raw foods, you should avoid giving them onions, broccoli, garlic, nuts, and seeds. For the same reason, your dog should absolutely stay away from bones. Always make sure to read the ingredients in the dog food, so that you don’t accidentally feed your dog something his sensitive stomach cannot handle.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you now have a clear idea of your Yorkie’s needs, habits, and health issues; we believe you’ll do your best to take care of them. We hope this list of the best dog foods for your Yorkie has helped you gain a better sense of what your dog needs in his diet to facilitate a healthy and happy life.
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