Best Dog Food For Yorkies

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Yorkies or Yorkshire Terriers, are toy-breed dogs that have a lot of hair. These fluffy pups can weigh between 12 and 15 pounds and grow to be 8 and 9 inches tall.

As small as Yorkies may be, they pack a ton of personality into their little bodies and they make wonderful companion pets. Just like any dog, however, Yorkies have specific nutritional needs that, as a dog owner, it is your job to meet.

Keep reading to learn more about your Yorkie’s nutritional needs and how to meet them by choosing a high-quality dog food formula. You’ll also receive our top 5 picks for the best dog food for Yorkies.

Compare Best Dog Food For Yorkies

OVERALL BEST 1. Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Dry Dog Food View on Chewy Read Review	BEST FOR PUPPIES 2. Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food View on Chewy Read Review	BEST FOR SENIORS 3. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food View on Chewy Read Review	BEST FOR SKIN ALLERGIES 4. Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food View on Chewy Read Review	BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS 5. Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food View on Chewy Read Review
Protein 27% (Min)	Protein 28% Min	Protein 20% Min	Protein 21% Min	Protein 23% Min
Fat 15% (Min)	Fat 12% Min	Fat 10% Min	Fat 12% Min	Fat 13% Min
Fiber 5% (Max)	Fiber 4.5% Max	Fiber 7% Min	Fiber 4% Max	Fiber 4% Max
Calories 3750 Kcal/kg or 410 Kcal/cup	Calories 381 kcal/cup	Calories 442 kcal/cup	Calories 392 kcal/cup	Calories 335 kcal/cup

Our Criteria

We look for foods that meet the following criteria as much The World Small Animal Veterinary Association recommends using criteria such as AAFCO-approved, preferably with food trials, nutritional research formulated by veterinary nutritionists, good quality control, and nutrition over marketing.

The company emphasizes that the dog’s health is more important than the ingredients, and marketing should not be the deciding factor. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has warned about a link between grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy in dogs, and the FDA is investigating the matter.

The recommended dog foods for Yorkies are healthy, nutritious, formulated by veterinary nutritionists, made with strict quality control standards, and supported by solid nutritional research. The FDA continues to investigate this issue.

Best Rated Dog Food For Yorkies Reviewed

Yorkies, a unique breed with a large body and small body, possess a spark and zest for life that sets them apart from most dog breeds. To maintain their vitality, prioritize a high-quality diet. Here are our top picks for the best dog food for Yorkies that you should consider:

OVERALL BEST

1.

Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Dry Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 27% (Min)
• Fat: 15% (Min)
• Fiber: 5% (Max)
• Calories: 3750 Kcal/kg or 410 Kcal/cup

Pros

• Inexpensive on a comparison with many other food brands
• Small kibble size
• Taurine-rich formula, good for eyes and heart

Cons

• Chicken meal might cause digestive trouble for some Yorkies

Natural Balance Original Ultra Whole Body Health Dry Dog Food is perfect for Yorkie puppies, adults, as well as seniors. This is one of the best overall dog foods that derive protein from chicken, chicken meal, duck meal, and peas. It also contains green tea extracts, blueberries, and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that aid digestion in Yorkies of all ages.

This dry dog food also contains chicken fat, oats, carrots, and natural flavors. Moreover, it is free of gluten and artificial flavoring agents. It is loaded with enough EPA and DHA that can help with the mental growth and well-being of a puppy in its growing years.

BEST FOR PUPPIES

2.

Merrick Grain-Free Puppy Chicken & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 28% Min
• Fat: 12% Min
• Fiber: 4.5% Max
• Calories: 381 kcal/cup

Pros

• Digestible carbohydrates
• Contains DHA for brain development
• Packed with nutrient-rich superfood
• Has enough moisture content

Cons

• Quite expensive for the amount of food packed per packet

This grain-free dog food for Yorkie puppies is made up of 55% proteins from poultry and fish and 45% vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables and fruits. It contains deboned chicken, chicken meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potato protein, chicken fat, deboned salmon, and natural pork and chicken flavor.

This dog food by Merrick also contains supplements of essential vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Vitamin d3. Furthermore, it is completely devoid of artificial flavoring agents, gluten, soy, corn, and preservatives. Merrick Grain Free Puppy Recipe Dry Dog food for Yorkies also contains fibers and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that make digestion easy. It contains the following:

BEST FOR SENIORS

3.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Large Breed Dry Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 20% Min
• Fat: 10% Min
• Fiber: 7% Min
• Calories: 442 kcal/cup

Pros

• Rich in protein and healthy fat
• Calcium and phosphorus reduce the risk of bone degeneration
• Glucosamine for healthy joint support

Cons

• Dogs with specific taste might not like the flavor

This dry dog food by Blue Buffalo is perfect for senior Yorkies because it contains real meat that offers sufficient strength to the muscles and keeps them lean. It contains deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, and barley. Moreover, this dog food is also rich in immunity-boosting vitamins and antioxidants like Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin B12, and beta-carotene.

This easy-to-digest dog food is good for the dog’s coat since it has omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It is completely free of soy, corn, animal by-products, wheat, and artificial flavoring agents and preservative. Lastly, it derives its carbs from good carb sources like sweet potatoes. It contains the following:

BEST FOR SKIN ALLERGIES

4.

Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 21% Min
• Fat: 12% Min
• Fiber: 4% Max
• Calories: 392 kcal/cup

Pros

• Fiber for healthy digestion & rich in antioxidants
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids boost immunity
• Packed with Vitamin E and Vitamin C

Cons

• Quite expensive for the amount of food packed per packet
• Feedbacks suggest that picky eaters might disapprove the flavor

This dog food by Hill’s Science is an absolute necessity for Yorkies with a sensitive stomach and skin. All its ingredients are easy-to-digest and each kibble has enough moisture to ensure that the dog doesn’t dehydrate. It derives its protein from chicken meal, brewers rice, whole grain sorghum, cracked pearled Barley, and peas.

This dry dog food contains prebiotic fibers that can soothe an upset stomach. Additionally, it is completely free of harmful preservatives and artificial coloring and flavoring agents. It contains the following:

BEST FOR WEIGHT LOSS

5.

Nutro Ultra Weight Management Dry Dog Food

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Product Info

• Protein: 23% Min
• Fat: 13% Min
• Fiber: 4% Max
• Calories: 335 kcal/cup

Pros

• Low calorie recipe
• Easy-to-digest
• Affordable

Cons

• Low moisture content

This flavorsome weight management dog food by Nutro contains a perfect balance of nutrients. It is rich in chicken, lentils, rice bran, whole brown rice, chicken meal, and lamb meal. All the used ingredients are farm-raised and easy-to-digest. This dry dog food formula does not contain animal by-products, soy protein, corn, wheat, artificial coloring and flavoring agents, and preservatives.

It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants coming from fresh fruits and vegetables like dried apples, dried carrots, and blueberries.

What to Consider When Buying Dog Food For Yorkies

Yorkies are small in size and they have a lot of hair. They need proper nutrition so that they can steer clear of allergies and diseases. This is why they need a highly nutritious diet. Although the market is bundled with different dog foods for toy breeds, not all can be trusted. To help this process, we have made a list of some features that can determine if the brand you’re eyeing for is good or not.

• Size of Kibbles: Yorkies have a very small mouth. Their teeth are unable to grind hard kibble. Thus, avoid all food brands that manufacture hard or large kibble. Besides this, ensure that you oversee the size and softness of the kibbles, even if the brand mentions that the food is perfect for all breeds.
• Low Glycemic Index Diet: Food items with a high glycemic index can lead to the accumulation of sugar in the body. Since Yorkies are small, they require a low glycemic index diet. Furthermore, choose food items that derive nutrients only from healthy sources.
• Age: Yorkies have different energy levels at different stages of life. Puppies are the fastest and most active in comparison to adult and senior Yorkies. Thus, feed these dogs with food that does not supply unnecessary calories.
• Health Status: There are many brands that manufacture food for healthy pets. However, not all those foods are suitable for overweight dogs suffering from food allergies. Thus, if your pet has any health condition, buy only foods that cater to the special requirements of the dog.

Nutritional Requirements

A balanced diet for Yorkies includes proteins, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fibers, fats, antioxidants, and water. The calorie requirement depends on the pet’s weight and age. For puppies, it is recommended to let them live on mother’s milk for the first 4 weeks, while adults require 150 calories per day for 1-6 years. Senior Yorkies need no more than 120 calories a day, as overfeeding can lead to obesity.

Protein is the most important nutrient for Yorkies, and the best sources of protein are lamb, turkey, chicken, salmon, beef, and duck. A diet containing 28–34% protein is considered healthy for Yorkies. Fat is also essential for a healthy Yorkie, as long as it comes from clean sources like chicken or pork. A balanced diet should contain no more than 18% fat, with a range of 12-18% depending on age.

Fiber intake is crucial for a balanced diet, especially for dogs with a sensitive stomach. Prebiotic and water-insoluble fibers from fresh vegetables and boneless meat are essential for a balanced diet, but excessive consumption can cause problems. An ideal diet should not contain more than 6% fiber, with a 2-6% variation depending on the pet’s age and health status.

Carbohydrates are essential for energy, and healthy carbs, like sweet potatoes, can help your pet burn down energy. However, some dogs may have food allergies, so consult a vet before feeding them.

Feeding A Yorkie By Age

Yorkies are delicate little dogs that need a lot of attention. They are extremely playful and adorable, especially as puppies. You have to be more of a parent and less of an owner to raise all pets with love. This, in particular, is most necessary when handling a puppy. Yorkies, as puppies, have special requirements because they have a very small mouth. Moreover, they can easily choke on almost all food items.

• Under 1 Month: You should not feed a Yorkie puppy with anything solid below the age of 1 month.
• Between 1-3 Months: Puppies between 1-3 months should be given properly mashed kibbles, in a very low quantity with lots of milk.
• Between 3-6 Months: Puppies between 3-6 months should be given a half milk and half kibble diet.
• 6 Months And Above: Yorkies over the age of 6 months can handle dry dog food as long as the kibbles aren’t too hard.

Nutritional Choices for Every Stage

Selecting the right food for your Yorkie goes beyond age. Their diet should also meet specific health needs. Here’s a closer look at how to cater to their nutritional requirements:

• Protein Sources: Opt for foods rich in animal protein, such as deboned chicken, turkey, or beef. These support muscle growth and energy levels, essential for both puppies and active adult Yorkies.
• Grain and Grain-Free Options: Depending on your dog’s tolerance, choose between grain-inclusive options that provide balanced carbohydrates or grain-free alternatives for sensitive stomachs.
• Fat and Fiber Balance: Ensure the diet has a healthy balance of fats for energy and fiber, along with probiotics, to aid in digestion and maintain a healthy gut.

Hypoallergenic Food Diet For Yorkies

Yorkies are less likely to be hypoallergenic than other dog breeds, but they can still develop skin infections due to sensitive stomachs. To help your pet with this condition, consider a hypoallergenic diet.

Common allergens include soy, corn, wheat, grains, gluten, dairy products, and animal by-products. Yorkies can also be allergic to certain carbohydrates.

To find a true hypoallergenic diet, first determine the ingredients your dog is allergic to. Some recommended diets include Novel Protein, Hydrolyzed Protein, and Limited-Ingredient Diets. Novel protein refers to a new protein your dog hasn’t had before, while Hydrolyzed protein is a broken form of larger proteins that are easily digestible.

Limited-ingredient diets derive protein from a single source, making them suitable for dogs allergic to multiple ingredients.

Real Owner Insights

Feedback from other Yorkie owners can be invaluable. Many have reported improvements in coat health, energy levels, and digestion after switching to carefully selected diets that align with the guidelines above.

By considering these factors, you ensure your Yorkie not only stays healthy but thrives at every stage of their life.

How to Safely Transition Your Yorkie to a New Dog Food

Switching your Yorkie’s food can be daunting, but with the right approach, you can minimize the risk of upsetting their stomach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make the transition smooth and safe:

Gradual Introduction
Start by mixing a small amount of the new dog food with your Yorkie’s current food. A good initial ratio is 75% old food and 25% new food.

Adjust the Ratio
Over the course of a week, slowly increase the amount of new food while decreasing the old. For example:

Day 3: 50% old food, 50% new food
Day 5: 25% old food, 75% new food
Day 7: 100% new food

Monitor Your Yorkie’s Reaction
Pay close attention to any changes in your Yorkie’s behavior or digestion. Look for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. These might indicate the need to slow down the transition or consult a veterinarian.

Consult a Veterinarian Immediately
If your Yorkie shows any troubling symptoms, it’s crucial to seek veterinary advice. They can recommend specific foods that suit your pet’s dietary needs and health conditions.

Choose Quality Brands
When selecting a new dog food, opt for reputable brands known for using high-quality ingredients. Brands like Royal Canin, Hill’s Science Diet, and Blue Buffalo are excellent choices to consider.

By following these steps, you can help ensure your Yorkie’s transition to new food is as gentle and stress-free as possible. Always remember, your veterinarian’s guidance is invaluable when making dietary changes for your pet.

When to Transition Your Yorkie Puppy to Adult Dog Food

Determining the right time to switch your Yorkie puppy to adult dog food is crucial for their overall health and development. Typically, Yorkie puppies should continue on puppy-specific food until they’re around 9 to 12 months old.

Here’s why timing matters:

• Nutritional Needs: Puppy foods are specifically formulated with higher protein levels, leucine, and other essential nutrients that support growth and development. Adult dog food often lacks these, which can hinder your puppy’s growth if introduced too early.
• Growth Milestones: Most small breeds reach their full adult size within this age range. By transitioning at the right time, you ensure your Yorkie is getting the nutrients they need during these crucial growth phases.
• Veterinary Guidance: Always consult with your veterinarian before making the switch. They can provide tailored advice based on your Yorkie’s specific health and growth pattern.

Remember, a gradual transition is best. Mix small amounts of adult food into their puppy food, increasing the ratio over a week or two, to ease digestive adjustments and ensure a smooth changeover.

Hypoallergenic Food Diet For Yorkies

Yorkies are less likely to be hypoallergenic than other dog breeds, but they can still develop skin infections due to sensitive stomachs. To help your pet with this condition, consider a hypoallergenic diet.

Common allergens include soy, corn, wheat, grains, gluten, dairy products, and animal by-products. Yorkies can also be allergic to certain carbohydrates.

To find a true hypoallergenic diet, first determine the ingredients your dog is allergic to. Some recommended diets include Novel Protein, Hydrolyzed Protein, and Limited-Individual Diets. Novel protein refers to a new protein your dog hasn’t had before, while Hydrolyzed protein is a broken form of larger proteins that are easily digestible.

Limited-ingredient diets derive protein from a single source, making them suitable for dogs allergic to multiple ingredients.

Food Allergy And Food-Related Health Issues In Yorkies

Yorkies that have a food allergy can exhibit different symptoms, like dandruff, vomiting upon consumption of food, hair fall, loose stools, and diarrhea. If you recognize any of these symptoms in your pet, you might want to take it to a vet and find out what the troubling allergens are. However, whatever the allergens are, food allergies can lead to a lot of health troubles. While there are many, we have made a list of the most common food-related health troubles in Yorkies.

• Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia or low sugar level, mostly affects overweight Yorkies. Dividing your dog’s diet into low-fat multiple smaller meals will ensure that the blood has enough sugar at all times.
• Luxating Patella: It can be caused by a trauma. This bone and joint condition can sometimes be hereditary as well. Feeding your dog with premium-quality protein is one solution.
• Tracheal Collapse: This condition happens if the cartilage around the tracheal rings is not fully formed. Since glucosamine is the ingredient that can repair cartilage, it is a natural cure for tracheal collapse.
• Bloating and Indigestion: Indigestion and bloating lead to stomach upset, cramps, acidity, and constipation. Omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, fibers, and prebiotics are the items that help in these conditions.

Final Thoughts

Yorkies are loyal, intelligent, and playful family pets, known for their well-mannered nature and good behavior with children. They are low-maintenance, need less food than larger breeds, and have a thin, long-haired coat. However, they have specific needs, especially as puppies, and require special care when feeding them.