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The Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, have prominent personalities in most miniature terrier breeds. Though they only weigh between four and seven pounds on average, these pups are full of spunk and energy. Yorkshire Terriers were initially bred in England during the Victorian era to catch rats in clothing mills. They’re popular companion animals known for their affectionate natures and hypoallergenic coats.
While Yorkies are relatively healthy dogs, they are susceptible to a few health problems, including dental disease, cataracts, and tracheal collapse. A good diet can help prevent some of these health problems.
The best dog food for Yorkies is a high-quality kibble or canned food that’s rich in protein and low in carbohydrates. It should also be formulated for small breeds and contain all the nutrients your Yorkshire Terrier needs for long and healthy life.
We’ve researched to find the best dog food for Yorkies. Keep reading to learn more about our top picks and what to look for in good food for your Yorkshire Terrier.
What Are The Best Dog Foods for Yorkies?
- Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Puppy Dry Dog Food – For Puppies
- Purina Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – For Adult
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dry Dog Food – For Senior
- Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Dry Dog Food – For Miniature and Teacup
- Royal Canin Breed Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food – For Sensitive Stomachs
What to Look for in the Best Dog Food for Yorkies
It would help if you remembered a few things when shopping for the best dog food for Yorkies.
– Protein: is vital for small breeds like Yorkies because it helps them maintain a higher metabolism. Look for food with at least 18% protein, though 20-30% is even better.
Carbs are an essential energy source for all dogs, but they should make up no more than 50% of a Yorkie’s diet. Look for a food that’s lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein.
You might think that carbs are unnecessary, but they help canines with a lot of energy, such as Yorkies. The problem occurs when there are too many carbs and insufficient proteins in their diet; This is not a balanced meal, and it will make your furry friend obese.
– Fats: are an essential source of energy for all dogs, but they should make up no more than 15% of a Yorkie’s diet. Look for a food that’s lower in fats and higher in protein.
– Vitamins and minerals: are essential nutrients that all dogs need for good health. Look for food fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, iron, and copper.
It’s also essential to choose a food specifically formulated for small breeds. Small-breed formulas contain more calories per cup than regular formulas, which is vital for Yorkies because they have a high metabolism and tend to burn calories quickly. Small breed formulas also contain smaller kibble pieces that are easier for Yorkies to eat.
Yorkshire Terriers are also prone to dental problems, so choosing a food designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup is crucial. Look for food fortified with dental-friendly ingredients like parsley or mint.
Finally, make sure you choose dog food that’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any fillers, artificial additives, or by-products. Your Yorkshire Terrier deserves the best, so choose a food that meets all these criteria.
The Best Dog Foods for Yorkies – Reviews
Now that you know what to look for in good food for Yorkies, here are our top picks.
Best Dog Food for Yorkie Puppies
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Dog Food
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Dog Food is a small breed dog that uses real deboned chicken as the first ingredient.
This grain-free recipe is crafted with probiotics and prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion, glucosamine and chondroitin to help maintain healthy joints and hips, and omega-3 fatty acids to help keep a healthy coat and skin.
It also contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Real Chicken & Sweet Potato Puppy Dry Dog Food is made in the USA with no ingredients from China.
Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Turkey Meal, Peas, Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pea Protein, Menhaden Fish Meal, Natural Flavor, Salmon Oil (source of DHA), Salt, Potassium Chloride, Minerals (zinc amino acid chelate, iron amino acid chelate, cobalt amino acid chelate, copper amino acid chelate, manganese amino acid chelate, selenium yeast), Vitamins (vitamin E supplement, vitamin A supplement, thiamine mononitrate, niacin supplement, d-calcium pantothenate, riboflavin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride, folic acid, biotin, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement), Yucca Schidigera Extract, Choline Chloride, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Plantarum Fermentation Product, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Casei Fermentation Product, Green Tea Extract, Rosemary Extract, Spearmint Extract.
Best Dog Food for Adult Yorkies
Purina Pro Plan Adult Toy Breed Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is packed with protein to help your pup maintain strong muscles, and it contains natural prebiotic fiber to support digestive health.
Plus, it’s enriched with essential vitamins and minerals to keep your dog looking and feeling his best.
The small, bite-sized kibble is easy for Yorkies to eat, formulated with high-quality ingredients that meet your adult dog’s nutritional needs.
Ingredients:
Chicken, Brewer’s Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Wheat, Corn Gluten Meal, Beet Pulp, Animal Fat Preserved with Mixed-Tocopherols, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Flaxseed, Fish Meal, Natural Flavor, Salt, Monocalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin A Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, D-Biotin, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Manganese Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Ethylenediamine Dihydriodide), Fish Oil (Source of EPA and DHA), DL-Methionine, Choline Chloride, Glucosamine Hydrochloride, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Oat Meal, Tetra Sodium Pyrophosphate, Garlic Powder.
Best Dog Food for Senior Yorkies
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
BLUE Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dog Food is made with only the finest natural ingredients, including real chicken as the first ingredient. It’s formulated to meet the particular needs of small-breed senior dogs.
BLUE Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dog Food is a complete and balanced food for adult dogs (1-6 years) that are prone to joint issues or have a history of developing them.
This formula has chondroitin and glucosamine to support joint health & mobility and essential proteins and carbohydrates to keep the energy needed for a healthy lifestyle. It also has omega 3 & 6 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.
Ingredients:
Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley, Peas, Potato Starch, Dried Plain Beet Pulp, Flaxseed Oil (source of Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids), Alfalfa Meal, Salt, Natural Chicken Flavor, Potassium Chloride, Blueberries, Cranberries, Apples, Carrots, Garlic, Spinach, Yucca Schidigera Extract.
Best Dog Food for Miniature and Teacup Yorkies
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Paws Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food is made with highly digestible ingredients that are easy on your small dog’s stomach.
This adult dog food provides high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle in small breed dogs, and nourishing omega-six fatty acids and vitamin E help promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
It Uses an antioxidant blend specifically for lifelong immune support in toy and miniature dogs. Made with natural ingredients and made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust, this veterinarian-recommended dog food is an excellent choice for your small pup.
Ingredients:
Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Whole Grain Wheat, Ground Brown Rice, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Beet Pulp, Natural Flavor, Flaxseed, Menhaden Fish Oil, Lactic Acid, Potatoes, Salt, Carrots, Peas.
Best Dog Food for Yorkies with Sensitive Stomachs
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food is complete and balanced nutrition specially formulated to meet the needs of purebred Yorkshire Terriers 10 months to 8 years. It provides omega-3 and -6 fatty acids and biotin to maintain a healthy coat. It delivers targeted nutrients, including vitamin C, EPA, and DHA, to help support and sustain your toy breed’s vitality as they face the first signs of aging. The unique kibble shape delivers a unique shape, size, texture, and density to help reduce tartar formation by encouraging Yorkies to chew.
Ingredients:
Chicken meal, brown rice, oatmeal, barley, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), natural flavors, dried plain beet pulp, dried brewers yeast, fish oil, salt, potassium chloride, choline chloride, vitamin E supplement, L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), DL-methionine, taurine, marigold extract (Tagetes erecta L.), L-carnitine, L-lysine, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, green tea extract, thyme extract, rosemary extract, dandelion extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.
What Health Issues Should I Be Wary with My Yorkshire Terrier?
While Yorkies are relatively healthy dogs but susceptible to a few health problems, these include dental disease, cataracts, and tracheal collapse. A good diet can help prevent some of these health problems.
Dental disease is dogs’ most common health problem, and Yorkies are no exception. Poor dental care can lead to tartar buildup, gum disease, and tooth loss. A good diet can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Look for food fortified with dental-friendly ingredients like parsley or mint.
Cataracts appear when the eyes’ lenses become cloudy, leading to blindness. A good diet can help prevent cataracts. Look for food rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E.
Tracheal collapse is a serious health problem in small breeds like Yorkies. It occurs when the trachea (windpipe) collapses, making it difficult for dogs to breathe. A good diet can help prevent tracheal collapse. Look for food rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, natural ingredients that help support healthy joints.
Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) occurs when the blood sugar level drops too low and can cause weakness, tremors, seizures, and even coma. A good diet can help prevent hypoglycemia. Look for food rich in complex carbohydrates, such as rice and oatmeal.
Patellar luxation happens when the kneecap slides out of place and can cause pain and lameness. A good diet can help prevent patellar luxation. Look for food rich in joint-supporting ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin.
Sensitive stomachs can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. A good diet can help prevent a sensitive stomach. Look for a food that’s easy to digest and doesn’t contain any fillers or artificial additives.
Yorkshire Terriers are also prone to hypothyroidism, which occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight gain, hair loss, and lethargy. A good diet can help prevent hypothyroidism.
These are just a few health problems Yorkies are susceptible to. A good diet can help prevent or manage these health problems.
The Best Dog Food for Yorkies – FAQs
What is the best dog food for Yorkies?
The best dog food for Yorkies is a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet that meets their unique needs.
Puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs all have different nutritional needs. And dogs with health problems may need a special diet. Talk to your veterinarian about the best dog food for your Yorkshire Terrier.
How much should I feed my Yorkshire Terrier?
The amount of food you feed your Yorkshire Terrier will depend on his age, activity level, and health status. Puppies and young dogs need more calories than adults because they grow and develop. Adult dogs need fewer calories because they’re not growing, and their activity level is usually lower. Senior dogs also need fewer calories because they tend to be less active, and their metabolism slows down. Dogs with health problems such as diabetes or heart disease may also need a special diet. Talk to your veterinarian about how much food you should feed your Yorkshire Terrier.
Should Yorkies Eat Dry Dog Food or Wet Dog Food?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some dogs do well on dry dog food, while others do better on wet dog food. And some dogs need a diet that includes both dry and wet food. The best way to determine what food is best for your Yorkshire Terrier is to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose a diet that meets your dog’s individual needs.
Can I give my Yorkie human food?
You can give your Yorkie human food, but you should avoid giving him too much. Human food is often high in fat and calories, which can cause weight gain. It’s also essential to ensure that the human food you give your dog doesn’t contain toxic ingredients. For example, chocolate is toxic to dogs. Talk to your veterinarian about which human foods are safe for your Yorkshire Terrier.
What food should Yorkies not eat?
There are a few foods that Yorkies should not eat, including chocolate, coffee, onions, and grapes. These foods can be toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems. Call your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has eaten something he shouldn’t have.
Where can I buy the best dog food for Yorkies?
You can buy the best dog food for Yorkies at your local pet store or online. There are many different brands and formulas to choose from, so it’s essential to do your research before you buy. Talk to your veterinarian about which dog food is best for your Yorkshire Terrier.
When Should Yorkies Switch from Puppy Food to Adult Dog Food?
Puppies should start eating adult dog food when they reach about 9 to 12 months old. They may need to eat puppy food for extended periods if they’re small-breed dogs. Talk to your veterinarian about when to switch your Yorkshire Terrier from puppy food to adult dog food.
What is the best way to transition my Yorkie to a new food?
The best way to transition your Yorkshire Terrier to a new food is to do it gradually. Start by mixing the new food with the old food, and gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the amount of old food. This process should take about ten days. Make sure you don’t make sudden changes to your dog’s diet, as this can cause stomach upset. Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about transitioning your dog to a new food.
Conclusion
The best dog food for Yorkies is a high-quality, nutritious diet that meets their individual needs. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional requirements.
Now that you know more about the best dog food for Yorkies, you can decide what to feed your dog. And remember, If you’re not sure what type of food to feed your Yorkie, consult with your veterinarian. They can recommend a specific brand or formula to meet your pup’s nutritional needs.
Thanks for reading our blog post on the best dog food for Yorkies! We hope you found it helpful. Please leave us a comment below if you have any questions, and share it with your friends and family who own Yorkies too!
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