What Do Yorkshire Terriers Eat? A Simple Guide for Yorkie Parents

Hey there, Yorkie lovers! If you’re wondering what to feed your pint-sized pal, you’re in the right place. Yorkshire Terriers are tiny dogs with big personalities, and their diet needs some special attention to keep them healthy and happy.

Let’s break down what Yorkies should eat, what to avoid, and some tips to make mealtime a breeze.

 

Why a Good Diet Matters for Yorkies

Yorkies are small—usually 4 to 7 pounds—and their little bodies need the right fuel to thrive. A balanced diet supports their shiny coat, high energy, and long lifespan (often 13–16 years). Because they’re prone to issues like low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), dental problems, and sensitive stomachs, picking the right food is super important.

The Best Food for Your Yorkie

High-Quality Commercial Dog Food

Most Yorkie owners go for commercial dog food because it’s convenient and formulated to meet a dog’s nutritional needs. Here’s what to look for:

• Small-breed formulas: These are designed for tiny jaws and high metabolisms. Look for kibble sized for small mouths.
• High-quality protein: Chicken, turkey, or fish should be the first ingredient. Avoid vague terms like “meat by-products.”
• Balanced nutrients: Check for healthy fats (like fish oil for that glossy coat), carbs (like sweet potatoes or rice), and essential vitamins and minerals.
• No junk fillers: Skip foods with artificial colors, flavors, or cheap fillers like corn or soy, which can upset sensitive tummies.

Wet vs. Dry Food: Dry kibble is great for dental health, as it helps scrape off plaque. Wet food is tastier and hydrating but can stick to teeth, so brush regularly if you go this route. A mix of both can work well—ask your vet for advice.

Pro Tip: The ingredients on the back of the bag or can will be in order of how much of each ingredient is in there. If beef is the first ingredient in it, then there is more beef in the container than any other ingredient.

Puppy, Adult, or Senior? Yorkie puppies need calorie-dense food to support growth, while adults need maintenance diets. Seniors might need lower-calorie options to avoid weight gain. Always pick a food that matches your Yorkie’s life stage.

Can Yorkies Eat Human Food?

Yes, but only certain ones! Some human foods are safe and even beneficial as treats or meal toppers. Here are some Yorkie-friendly options:

Lean meats: Cooked chicken, turkey, or beef (no seasoning or bones).

Veggies: Steamed carrots, green beans, or broccoli (small portions to avoid gas).

Fruits: Blueberries, apple slices (no seeds), or bananas in moderation—they’re sugary!

Grains: Plain rice, quinoa, or oatmeal: Great for upset stomachs.

Dairy: Plain Greek yogurt is great for digestion. Just a spoonful or two a day is enough.

Portion Tip: Treats should be no more than 10% of your Yorkie’s daily calories to prevent weight gain.

Foods to Avoid

Yorkies have delicate systems, so steer clear of these:

Chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic: Toxic and dangerous.

Fatty foods: Bacon or fried scraps can cause pancreatitis.

Xylitol: Found in sugar-free gum and some peanut butters—super toxic. It can also be called Birch Sugar.

Bones: Cooked bones can splinter and cause choking or internal damage.

If your Yorkie sneaks something they shouldn’t, call your vet or an emergency pet hotline ASAP.

How Much Should a Yorkie Eat?

Yorkies don’t need much food—about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of dry kibble daily for adults, split into 2–3 small meals. Puppies may need more frequent meals (3–4 times a day) to prevent hypoglycemia. Always check the food package for portion guidelines and adjust based on your dog’s weight, activity level, and age.

Pro Tip: Use a measuring cup to avoid overfeeding. Yorkies can gain weight fast, and extra pounds stress their tiny frames.

Feeding Tips for Yorkies

• Stick to a schedule: Regular meals help with digestion and prevent low blood sugar. Morning and evening meals work for most adults.
• Fresh water always: Yorkies need constant access to clean water to stay hydrated.
• Watch for allergies: If your Yorkie is scratching a lot or has tummy troubles, they might have a food allergy. Common culprits include chicken or grains. Your vet can recommend a hypoallergenic diet.
• Dental care: Yorkies are prone to dental issues, so brush their teeth daily or offer dental chews. Regular vet cleanings are a must.
• Transition slowly: When switching foods, mix the new food with the old over 7–10 days to avoid stomach upset.

Special Diets and Health Issues

Some Yorkies need tailored diets:

• Hypoglycemia: Frequent small meals with high-protein food help stabilize blood sugar.
• Liver issues: Yorkies can develop liver shunts, requiring low-protein prescription diets.
• Weight management: If your Yorkie’s getting chubby, a vet-recommended low-calorie food can help.

Always chat with your vet before making big diet changes, especially if your Yorkie has health concerns.

Homemade or Raw Diets: Yay or Nay?

Some owners love making homemade food or trying raw diets, but these need careful planning. Yorkies require specific nutrients, and DIY diets can miss the mark if you’re not working with a vet or pet nutritionist.

If you’re keen on homemade, ensure it’s balanced with the right mix of protein, carbs, fats, and supplements. Raw diets carry risks like bacterial contamination, so talk to your vet first.

Homemade food is a great way to know exactly what is in your dog’s food. I make most of my own dogs’ food. If you are interested in my recipe, you can find it here. Just check with your vet to make sure they are okay with it.

Final Thoughts

Feeding your Yorkie doesn’t have to be complicated! Stick to high-quality, small-breed dog food, toss in some safe human treats, and keep portions in check. Regular vet visits will help you tweak their diet as they age or if health issues pop up. With the right food, your Yorkie will be strutting their stuff with a wagging tail and a shiny coat in no time.

Got questions about your Yorkie’s diet? Drop a comment or ask your vet for personalized tips. And share with us what you feed your dog in the comments.

Happy feeding!

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