Yorkies may be tiny, but their love for food? Huge.

And because they’re so small, even a little bit of the wrong food can cause serious trouble. What might only upset a big dog’s stomach could become an emergency for your 6-pound baby.

So let’s talk about the foods that should never end up in your Yorkie’s bowl — or sneakily dropped under the table.

🍫 1. Chocolate (Yes, Even a Little)

This one’s probably the most well-known — but it’s still one of the most common emergency vet visits.

Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs can’t process well. The darker the chocolate, the more dangerous it is.

Because Yorkies are so small, it doesn’t take much to cause:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tremors
• Rapid heart rate
• Seizures

Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the worst offenders.

🍇 2. Grapes & Raisins

These are surprisingly dangerous.

Even a small amount can cause kidney failure in dogs — and researchers still don’t fully understand why.

For a Yorkie, just a few grapes or raisins can be life-threatening. This includes:

• Trail mix
• Raisin bread
• Oatmeal cookies
• Salads with grapes

No amount is considered safe.

🧄 3. Onions, Garlic & Chives

These can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia.

This includes:

• Raw
• Cooked
• Powdered
• Dehydrated

That means onion powder in soups, garlic seasoning on meat, or even leftovers can be risky.

Yorkies are especially vulnerable because of their size.

🍬 4. Xylitol (The Hidden Danger)

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in:

• Sugar-free gum
• Sugar-free peanut butter
• Diet snacks
• Some toothpaste

It can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and even liver failure — sometimes within 30 minutes.

Always check peanut butter labels before giving your Yorkie a lick.

🥑 5. Avocado (In Large Amounts)

Avocado contains persin, which can cause stomach upset in dogs.

While small amounts of the flesh may not cause serious harm in every dog, it’s safer to skip it — especially since the pit is also a choking hazard for tiny breeds.

🍺 6. Alcohol (Even a Taste)

It might sound obvious, but dogs sometimes lick spilled drinks.

Even small amounts can cause:

• Vomiting
• Disorientation
• Breathing issues
• Dangerous drops in blood sugar

For a Yorkie, it doesn’t take much.

🍗 7. Cooked Bones

Cooked bones (especially chicken bones) can splinter and cause:

• Choking
• Internal damage
• Blockages

With their tiny throats and delicate digestive systems, Yorkies are at higher risk.

☕ 8. Caffeine

Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and caffeine pills can cause:

• Restlessness
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors
• Seizures

Keep mugs and pods out of reach — Yorkies are surprisingly good climbers.

🥜 9. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts may be a delicious treat for people, but they can cause serious problems for dogs.

Even a small amount can trigger symptoms in dogs, and since Yorkies are so tiny, it doesn’t take much.

Dogs that eat macadamia nuts may develop:

• Weakness (especially in the back legs)
• Vomiting
• Tremors
• Fever
• Lethargy

Symptoms usually appear within 12 hours of eating the nuts and can last up to a couple of days.

Macadamia nuts are often found in:

• Cookies
• Brownies
• Trail mix
• Holiday desserts

Because baked goods often contain other dangerous ingredients like chocolate or xylitol, these treats can be especially risky.

If your Yorkie eats macadamia nuts, call your vet right away for advice.

🍞 10. Raw Bread Dough

Raw bread dough might not seem dangerous, but it can cause serious problems for dogs.

When yeast dough is eaten, it can continue to rise inside your dog’s stomach. This can cause painful bloating and pressure in the abdomen.

Even worse, as the yeast ferments, it produces alcohol, which can lead to alcohol poisoning.

Symptoms may include:

• Swollen or painful belly
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Disorientation
• Trouble breathing

If your Yorkie eats raw dough, contact your vet immediately.

🥛 11. Dairy Products (For Some Dogs)

Many dogs are lactose intolerant, and Yorkies are no exception.

While a tiny lick of ice cream or cheese probably won’t be life-threatening, larger amounts can cause digestive upset, such as:

• Gas
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting

Because Yorkies have very sensitive stomachs, dairy treats can easily lead to a miserable tummy.

If you want to give your Yorkie a creamy treat, look for dog-safe yogurt or frozen dog treats instead.

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🍒 12. Fruit Pits and Seeds

Certain fruits themselves may be safe for dogs, but their pits and seeds can be toxic or dangerous.

Examples include:

• Cherry pits
• Peach pits
• Plum pits
• Apple seeds

These can contain cyanide compounds, which are toxic if consumed in larger amounts.

They also pose a choking or intestinal blockage risk, which is especially dangerous for small breeds like Yorkies.

If you offer fruit to your Yorkie, always remove the pits, cores, and seeds first.

🥔 13. Raw Potatoes and Green Potatoes

Raw potatoes — especially ones that have turned green — contain a compound called solanine, which can be toxic to dogs.

Cooking reduces this toxin, but raw or green potatoes can cause symptoms like:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Weakness
• Confusion

Potato plants and potato leaves are also toxic, so if you grow potatoes in your garden, keep your Yorkie away from the plants.

🍪 14. Nutmeg

Nutmeg is commonly used in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and holiday desserts.

While small amounts may only cause mild stomach upset, larger amounts can be toxic to dogs because nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin.

Possible symptoms include:

• Disorientation
• Increased heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Tremors
• Seizures

Since nutmeg often appears in desserts that may also contain chocolate or xylitol, it’s safest to avoid sharing baked goods with your Yorkie altogether.

🍄 15. Wild Mushrooms

Not all mushrooms are dangerous, but wild mushrooms can be extremely toxic to dogs.

Some species can cause:

• Severe vomiting and diarrhea
• Liver failure
• Neurological symptoms
• Seizures

The tricky part is that it can be very difficult to tell which mushrooms are safe and which are poisonous.

If your Yorkie spends time outside in the yard or on walks, keep an eye out for mushrooms growing in grass or wooded areas.

If your dog eats a wild mushroom, contact your vet right away.

🌽 16. Corn Cobs

Many dogs love chewing on corn cobs, especially if they’re left over from dinner or tossed in the trash. Unfortunately, corn cobs can be very dangerous for dogs — especially small breeds like Yorkies.

While corn kernels themselves are usually safe in small amounts, the cob is the real problem.

Corn cobs are tough and fibrous, and dogs often try to swallow pieces of them. Because they don’t break down in the digestive system, they can easily cause a choking hazard or intestinal blockage.

This can lead to serious symptoms such as:

• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Straining to poop or inability to poop

Blockages caused by corn cobs often require emergency surgery to remove.

Since Yorkies are so small, even a small piece of corn cob can become lodged in their digestive tract.

Tip: Always dispose of corn cobs in a secure trash can your dog cannot access.

Why Yorkies Are at Higher Risk

Because Yorkies are so small:

• Toxic amounts are reached faster
• Blood sugar drops happen more quickly
• Dehydration sets in faster
• Blockages are more likely

A “small bite” for us can be a huge dose for them.

🚨 Signs Your Yorkie May Have Eaten Something Toxic

Sometimes dogs get into things when we’re not looking. If your Yorkie has eaten something toxic — or you suspect they might have — their body may start showing warning signs.

Because Yorkies are so small, symptoms can appear quickly and sometimes more severely than in larger dogs.

Watch for these common signs of poisoning:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Drooling or excessive saliva
• Weakness or lethargy
• Tremors or shaking
• Loss of coordination
• Rapid breathing or panting
• Seizures
• Loss of appetite
• Unusual behavior or restlessness

In some cases, symptoms may appear within minutes, while other toxins may take several hours to cause problems.

If your Yorkie suddenly seems sick and you’re not sure why, it’s always safest to assume they may have eaten something they shouldn’t have.

When it comes to toxins, it’s always better to call your vet and be safe than wait too long.

What to Do If Your Yorkie Eats Something Toxic

1. Don’t panic.
2. Remove any remaining food.
3. Call your vet immediately.
4. Or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661(both have fees).

Time matters — especially with small breeds.

🐾 Human Foods That Are Safe for Yorkies (In Moderation)

After reading about all the foods Yorkies shouldn’t eat, you might be wondering if there are any safe human foods you can share.

The good news is — yes! There are several healthy foods that many dogs can enjoy as an occasional treat.

Just remember that treats should make up no more than about 10% of your Yorkie’s daily diet.

Here are some dog-safe options many Yorkies love:

🥕 Carrots

Carrots are crunchy, low in calories, and full of vitamins.
Many dogs enjoy them raw, but you can also lightly steam them for a softer treat.

They’re great for:

• Dental health
• Low-calorie snacking
• Added fiber

🫐 Blueberries

These tiny berries are packed with antioxidants and are a perfect bite-sized treat for small dogs.

You can serve them:

• Fresh
• Frozen (great in summer)
• Mashed into food

Most Yorkies love them.

🍎 Apples (Without Seeds or Core)

Apples can be a healthy snack for dogs when served properly.

Always remove:

• The core
• Seeds
• Stem

The crunchy texture can even help freshen your Yorkie’s breath.

🥜 Peanut Butter (Only If It’s Xylitol-Free)

Many Yorkies go crazy for peanut butter.

It can be used for:

• Stuffing toys
• Hiding medication
• Training treats

Just make sure the peanut butter does NOT contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs.

Always check the ingredient label first.

🍗 Plain Cooked Chicken

Plain, unseasoned chicken can be a great protein boost for dogs.

You can add small pieces to your Yorkie’s food if they’re feeling picky or recovering from an upset stomach.

Just make sure it’s:

• Fully cooked
• Unseasoned
• Boneless

🥒 Cucumbers

Cucumbers are another refreshing, low-calorie snack that many dogs enjoy.

They’re especially nice for Yorkies who need to watch their weight.

Cut them into small pieces so they’re easy to chew.

A Quick Safety Tip

Even safe foods should always be introduced slowly. Every dog’s stomach is different, and what works well for one Yorkie might upset another’s tummy.

When trying something new, start with just a tiny bite and watch for any digestive issues.

📋 Quick Reference: Toxic Foods for Yorkies

Here’s a simple list of foods that should never be given to your Yorkie. Because of their tiny size, even small amounts can cause serious health problems.

Avoid giving your Yorkie:

• Chocolate (especially dark or baking chocolate)
• Grapes
• Raisins
• Onions
• Garlic
• Chives
• Foods containing xylitol (sugar-free gum, peanut butter, candies)
• Macadamia nuts
• Alcohol
• Caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
• Cooked bones
• Corn Cobs
• Raw bread dough
• Fruit pits and seeds (cherry pits, peach pits, apple seeds)
• Raw potatoes and green potatoes
• Nutmeg
• Wild mushrooms

When in doubt, it’s always safest to look up a food before sharing it with your dog or ask your veterinarian.

Frequently Asked Questions About Toxic Foods for Yorkies

What foods cause the most emergency vet visits for dogs?

Some of the most common foods involved in dog poisoning cases include:

• Chocolate
• Grapes and raisins
• Foods containing xylitol
• Onions and garlic
• Macadamia nuts

Many emergency visits happen when dogs get into baked goods, candy, or leftovers left within reach.

What should I do immediately if my Yorkie eats toxic food?

First, remove any remaining food so your dog can’t eat more. Then contact your veterinarian or an animal poison hotline right away.

You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) for guidance. Acting quickly can make a big difference.

Can dogs recover after eating toxic food?

Many dogs recover fully if treatment begins quickly. The outcome often depends on:

• The type of toxin
• How much was eaten
• How quickly treatment begins

That’s why it’s always best to seek help immediately rather than waiting to see if symptoms appear.

Why are Yorkies more sensitive to toxins?

Yorkies have very small bodies and fast metabolisms, which means toxins can affect them more quickly than larger dogs. Even a small bite of certain foods can reach dangerous levels in their system.

Final Thoughts

While this list covers many of the most common toxic foods, it’s always safest to research any new food before sharing it with your Yorkie.

Our Yorkies look at us with those big eyes like, “Can I have some?”

And sometimes the hardest part of loving them is saying no.

But keeping them safe is worth it.

When in doubt? Stick to dog-safe treats and foods made specifically for small breeds. Your little shadow will thank you with many more happy, healthy years by your side.