15 Best Dog Food For Yorkies (Yorkshire Terriers)

Yorkshire Terriers are one of the top dog breeds in many homes in the United States. In 2021, the breed made it to the top 13th spot, according to AKC. It’s easy to know why many dog owners love Yorkies. They are tiny yet feisty little creatures. They are good companion dogs too because they are sociable and affectionate.

Yorkies are one of the smallest toy breeds. Their maximum size is about 7 pounds or 3.2 kilograms. Although many are delighted with their adorable size, it comes with disadvantages too. Because they are small, they are prone to injuries. Plus, they are predisposed to certain diseases, especially in the digestive system.

To keep them in tiptop shape, choosing the best dog food for Yorkies is vital. There are many dog foods in the market that cater to all breeds. But, it’s ideal to pick dog foods specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of a small breed such as the Yorkshire Terrier. So that you won’t have to scour the internet for information on Yorkie food, we did the job for you. Scroll further to learn the best diet for Yorkies.

15 Best Dog Food For Yorkshire Terriers

What is the best dog food for Yorkies? It’s difficult to give just one answer to this question. Yorkies have different nutritional needs at different stages of their life. So, we gathered the 15 best options for you. With this, you’ll have a variety of alternatives like puppy food, canned food, or dry dog food. Here is a quick look:

1. Instinct Original Small Breed Wet Canned Dog Food

Instinct Original Small Breed Grain Free Real Chicken Recipe Natural Wet Canned Dog Food, 5.5 oz. Cans (Case of 12)

$35.88

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Take care of your Yorkie’s delicate stomach by choosing Instinct Original Small Breed Wet Canned Dog Food. This is grain-free and gluten-free. It has no corn, wheat, or soya. It comes in beef and chicken flavors with a paté consistency. Those with chicken allergies can opt for beef as it contains no poultry by-products.

This canned dog food boasts high protein for muscle strength for all ages. It also offers omega-fatty acids for healthy skin and coats. It’s also sourced naturally and offers vitamins and minerals from fruits and vegetables. However, some picky Yorkies do not like the flavors. It also tends to be dry and pasty. Additionally, the chicken flavor may also trigger food sensitivities.

Pros

Grain-free and gluten-free

Contains no soy, wheat, and corn

Has Omega fatty acids

For all life stages

Cons

Tends to be dry and pasty

The chicken variant may trigger allergies

2. Merrick Lil' Plates Small Breed Wet Dog Food

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Merrick Lil' Plates Grain Free Small Dog Food, Surfin' and Turfin' Supper Recipe, Wet Dog Food - 3.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

$29.88 $27.36

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Offer complete balanced nutrition to your Yorkie with Merrick Lil’ Plates Small Breed Wet Dog Food. Real deboned chicken is the primary ingredient. It boasts high levels of omega-fatty acids good for the skin and coat. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support your Yorkie’s hips and joints.

The pint-size trays are ideal for one serving for puppies. Its prebiotics and probiotics content helps their tummies in digesting food. It’s grain-free and gluten-free. But, its chicken component may trigger food sensitivities in Yorkie puppies. Picky Yorkies that dislike the chicken flavor have no other alternatives to choose from.

Pros

Grain-free and gluten-free, no soy, wheat, and corn

Has Omega fatty acids

Has glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints

Prebiotics and probiotics for digestion

Cons

The chicken variant may trigger allergies

3. Castor & Pollux PRISTINE Small Breed Canned Dog Food

Castor & Pollux Pristine Grain Free Small Breed Grass-Fed Beef Stew Canned Dog Food, (12) 3.5oz cans

$29.88

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If you are looking for a brand with sustainable practices, go for Castor & Pollux PRISTINE Small Breed Free-Range Chicken Stew Canned Dog Food. The primary ingredient is organic-fed, free-range chickens sourced from responsible suppliers. It’s a grain-free and gluten-free formula without any corn, wheat, or soy. The fruits and vegetables included are also grown organically without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.

This dog food is specific for adult toy breeds. It also comes with lamb and beef flavors. The chicken variant may cause allergies to sensitive dogs.

Pros

Grain-free and gluten-free, no soy, wheat, and corn

The chicken ingredients are organic-fed and free-range

Fruits and vegetables are chemical-free

Cons

The chicken flavor may cause allergies

4. Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Dry Dog Food

Taste of the Wild Grain Free High Protein Real Meat Recipe Appalachian Valley Premium Dry Dog Food (418037), 14-Pound

$39.99

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Nurture your Yorkie’s health with the high-protein formula of Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley Small Breed Dry Dog Food. It offers optimal amino acid nutrition from varied ingredients like venison, lamb, egg, duck, and ocean fish. This grain-free dog food boasts 32% of protein to fuel your Yorkie’s energy. It also contains prebiotics and probiotics to help in nutrient absorption.

This dog food is formulated for adult dogs of small breeds. Although it doesn’t contain chicken, it has eggs, so take caution in feeding this to sensitive Yorkies. This formulation is not gluten-free.

Pros

Grain-free

High in protein from various ingredients

Prebiotics and probiotics for gut health

Cons

It contains chicken byproducts which may trigger food sensitivities

Not gluten-free

5. Solid Gold Mighty Mini For Toy & Small Breed Dog Food Cups

Solid Gold Wet Dog Food for Small Dogs - Mighty Mini Grain Free Wet Dog Food Made with Real Lamb - for Puppies, Adult & Senior Small Breeds with Sensitive Stomachs

$23.88

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Nourish your furry friend’s health with Solid Gold Mighty Mini For Toy & Small Breed Dog Food Cups. This holistic wet dog food contains no grains, gluten, wheat, soy, and corn. This adult recipe sources protein from ocean fishes. It also contains good omega-fatty acids for your Yorkie’s skin and coat. Since pumpkin is included in the formula, it contains enough fiber. Each individual pack is good for one serving of moisture-rich goodness.

However, this recipe contains chicken which may cause allergies in sensitive dogs. Some picky dogs may not like the fishy taste.

Pros

Grain-free and gluten-free, no soy, wheat, and corn

Good quality protein from fish

Contain omega fatty acids

75% moisture formula providing hydration

Cons

Contains chicken byproducts that may cause allergies

Fishy taste

6. Wellness Toy Breed Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food

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Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Dry Dog Food with Grains, Chicken & Rice, 4-Pound Bag

$20.99 $19.98

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Let your furry pal experience the nourishment from the premium ingredients of Wellness Toy Breed Complete Health Adults Dry Dog Food. It offers high-quality proteins and wholesome grains for well-balanced nutrition. Your Yorkie’s coat will shine with the omega-fatty acids found in this dog food.

This dry dog food formula is good for adult dogs only. Your pooch will not have difficulty chewing because the kibbles are smaller. Digestion is also made easier with the probiotics content of this food. Be careful though if your dog is sensitive as chicken may trigger allergies. It is also not grain-free and gluten-free.

Pros

Smaller kibble size for easy chewing

Premium quality proteins

Contains omega fatty acids and antioxidants

Has glucosamine, probiotics, and taurine

Cons

The chicken flavor may cause allergies

Not grain-free

7. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Small Breed Dog Food

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Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Adult Small Breed Wet Dog Food, Chicken 5.5-oz can (Pack of 24)

$59.76 $47.76

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Let your Yorkie enjoy the goodness of Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Small Breed Chicken Canned Dog Food. This versatile wet food can be used as a dry food topper, a treat, or a meal on its own. It boasts a careful balance of proteins and carbohydrates. This paté-style dog food is free of corn, wheat, soy, and preservatives.

The proteins are sourced from its primary ingredient, chicken. The vitamins and minerals are from its fruits and vegetable components. This formula is specially made of adult toy breeds. This contains brown rice and oatmeal, thus, it’s not grain-free. It contains chicken which may not be advisable for sensitive pooches.

Pros

Versatile pate-style wet food

Has fruits and vegetables

It contains a good mix of protein and carbohydrates

Cons

It contains grains and gluten

The chicken flavor may cause allergies

8. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier

Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dry Dog Food, 2.5 lb

$26.99

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Make your pup’s first meals effortless with Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dry Dog Food. This puppy food for Yorkies is specially formulated for 8 weeks to 10-month-old pups. The kibble is specially designed for the Yorkie’s muzzle and bite for an easy eating experience. Contains Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, plus biotin for skin and coat health.

High-quality proteins offer support for your pup’s immune system. The prebiotic content also helps promote good digestion. Your Yorkie pup’s natural defenses are protected by the antioxidants and vitamins in this dog food.

Pros

Kibbles are specially designed for Yokie puppies’ small muzzle

Contains omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids, and biotin for a shiny coat

Nutritional content is formulated for puppies’ growth and immune system

Has prebiotics for your puppy’s digestive health

Cons

Not gluten-free and grain-free

Contains chicken which can be an allergen

9. Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Dry Dog Food

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Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe, 15.5 lb. Bag

$55.99 $51.99

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Another good option for your Yorkie puppies is Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Dry Dog Food. It contains a good amount of DHA from high-quality fish oil. This helps in the brain development and eye health of puppies. It boosts your puppy’s immune system with the antioxidants, vitamin C, and E it contains.

This formula is not only good for puppies but pregnant and nursing dogs as well. Sourced naturally without artificial flavors and preservatives. However, this recipe contains chicken and may trigger food sensitivities. Grains are gluten are also part of the ingredients list.

Pros

It contains DHA for brain and eye health

Has vitamins C and E for the immune system

Nutrition for puppies, pregnant, and nursing dogs

Cons

Not gluten-free and grain-free

It contains chicken which can be an allergen

10. Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food

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NUTRO NATURAL CHOICE Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Kibble, 5 lb. Bag

$20.98 $18.79

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Give your little pooch high-quality protein with Nutri Natural Choice Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food. This naturally-sourced dog food boasts glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints. It’s flavored with chicken and brown rice. Its dry kibble formula helps maintain good dental health.

This dog food is great for Yorkies from age one and up. This recipe has no corn, soy, or wheat content. But, it is not grain-free or gluten-free. Be cautious in giving this to sensitive dogs since it contains chicken.

Pros

It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for your dog’s joints

Has antioxidants for a healthy immune system

No soy, wheat, or corn included

Cons

Not gluten-free and grain-free

It contains chicken which can be an allergen

11. Instinct Raw Boost Toy Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces

Instinct Raw Boost Toy Breed Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken Natural Dry Dog Food, 4 lb. Bag

$29.99

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Delight your little pooch with the unique goodness of Instinct Raw Boost Toy Breed Freeze-Dried Raw Pieces Dry Dog Food. It’s packed with a good combination of protein, fats, and calories to help your Yorkie reach his ideal weight. Keep your dog’s bones and teeth healthy with its calcium and phosphorous content.

Plus, this dog food offers glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. This recipe is specific for adult toy breeds. It is grain-free and gluten-free. No corn, wheat, or soy is added. But, it contains chicken which is an allergen for sensitive dogs.

Pros

It contains glucosamine and chondroitin for healthy joints

Has calcium and phosphorus for bone health

Grain-free, gluten-free without soy, wheat, or corn

Cons

It contains chicken which can be an allergen

12. ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food

ORIJEN Dog Puppy Recipe, 4.5lb, High-Protein Grain-Free Dry Puppy Food, Packaging May Vary, Chicken

$31.99

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Looking for mixed flavored dog food for your pup? Go for ORIJEN Puppy Grain-Free Puppy Food. It is packed with chicken and fish, including organs and bones, for high protein. It also boasts omega-fatty acids and DHA, ideal for your growing puppy. Plus, your Yorkie will love the raw flavor because it’s freeze-dried coated.

This dog food is for toy breed puppies. The formula contains no grains, gluten, wheat, soy, and corn. However, it contains chicken which can trigger sensitivities. Its fishy flavor may be a disadvantage for picky eaters. Its high protein content may not be advisable for puppies with certain medical conditions.

Pros

Grain-free and gluten-free without any wheat, soy, and corn

With omega-fatty acids and DHA

Freeze-dried coated for raw flavor

Cons

It contains chicken that may trigger allergies

High protein content may not be advised for some dogs

Picky dogs may not like the fishy flavor

13. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food

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Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Senior Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Brown Rice 15-lb

$45.99 $41.98

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Provide your senior Yorkies the nutrition they need with Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dry Dog Food. This dry food recipe contains calcium, phosphorous, glucosamine, and chondroitin, all aimed at keeping your Yorkie in good health. It also contains antioxidants, vitamins, and chelated minerals for easy absorption and a good immune system.

The kibbles are designed for your senior dog’s small mouth. Plus, the dry formula helps prevent tartar build-up on their teeth. No corn, soy, or wheat, but it contains grains. Chicken is the primary ingredient, an allergen for sensitive dogs.

Pros

No corn, soy, or wheat

With calcium and phosphorus for your dog’s bones

Has glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health

Cons

It contains chicken that may trigger allergies

Not grain-free

14. Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food

Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food, Natural Food with Added Vitamins & Minerals, Suitable for Teacup, Toy & Miniature Dogs, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe (4 Pound / 1.8 Kg)

$25.98

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Hunting for great dog food for your dog’s healthy digestion? Consider Health Extension Little Bites Dry Dog Food. Offers probiotics and fiber for your Yorkie’s gut health. It’s gluten-free and has no corn, wheat, and soy products. Focusing on preventing hypoglycemia, this formula has added sugar.

Aside from the superfood content, this dog food also contains CoQ10 for the heart health of your pooch. Plus, it has omega fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. However, this dog food contains grains with its brown rice component. It also has chicken on its ingredients list. Its added sugar may not be good for diabetic dogs.

Pros

Gluten-free and have no corn, soy, or wheat

With CoQ10 for heart health

It contains probiotics for gut health

Cons

It contains chicken that may trigger allergies

Not grain-free

Added sugar may adversely affect diabetic dogs

15. Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food

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Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dry Dog Food with Grains, Natural Ingredients, Made in USA with Real Turkey, For Dogs Up to 25 lbs, (Adult, Turkey & Oatmeal, 4-Pound Bag)

$20.99 $19.98

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Another good brand offering small kibbles is Wellness Small Breed Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food. Your Yorkie will not have a hard time absorbing the nutrients from this dog food because it is easier to chew. Nutrition for the entire body is the goal of this formula.

It has probiotics and fiber from oatmeal for good digestion. It also has omega fatty acids and antioxidants for healthy skin and coat. Plus, glucosamine and chondroitin for the joints. Although it has no corn, soy, or wheat, it contains grains.

Pros

Gluten-free and have no corn, soy, or wheat

Has omega fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, and taurine

Contains probiotics for gut health

Cons

Not grain-free

Nutritional Needs of Yorkies

Now that you’ve gone through the list of excellent dog food options, it’s time to understand your Yorkie’s nutrition. Because of their little tummies, small food portions should have big nutritional values. So, to ensure energy sustenance, familiarize these three important components of their food:

Protein

Dogs need protein in their diets to develop lean muscle. The average percentage of protein for dogs is at least 18%. Ideally, they should get about a pound per kilogram of their weight. For puppies, the recommended percentage is 22.5 to 32%. They need more protein because they are still growing.

Fats

Fats are also essential in dogs’ food. Healthy fats help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Fats are also a good source of calories. Yorkshire terriers need high-calorie diets because of their fast metabolisms. Fats in dog food can help provide your Yorkie’s caloric needs.

Vitamins and Minerals

Just like humans, dogs need vitamins and minerals, too. Different vitamins target different parts of your dog’s body. But overall, these components in your dog’s food all aim to keep your dog’s health in great condition.

What To Avoid In a Yorkie’s Food

Just like other dogs, there are foods that are not allowed for Yorkies. Some foods may be okay for humans but are toxic for dogs. These are the foods that should be avoided not just for Yorkies but for every dog:

Chocolate

Raisins or grapes

Avocado

Garlic

Onion

Macadamia and walnut

Fruit pits

Caffeine

Alcohol

Cooked bones

Xylitol

Spoiled food

Since Yorkshire Terriers have sensitive tummies, you should be cautious in giving milk, gluten, and certain proteins. Be wary of offering chicken and cooked eggs as well, as these are known to cause allergies. If you are unsure of your Yorkie’s allergies, offer only a small amount of chicken or egg. Then, observe for any symptoms. Take note, never give raw eggs to your pooch. It may contain salmonella that can make your dog sick.

Feeding Yorkshire Terriers: FAQ

Let’s take a look at the answers to the frequently asked questions about the best dog food for Yorkies:

What kind of dog food should I feed my Yorkie?

Based on the 15 best dog food for Yorkies discussed above, you have plenty of options to feed your pet. Choices include both wet and dry dog food. Whatever you choose to feed your pup, be sure to check the ingredients and nutrients list. Select the dog food that offers the correct amount of protein, fats, vitamins, and antioxidants for your dog.

Do Yorkshire Terriers need special dog food?

Yorkshire Terriers need dog food that is designed for small toy breeds. Their tiny bodies need to be nourished with food that is packed with proteins, superfoods, and nutrients. They have limited space in their tummies. So, you should feed your Yorkie with nutrient-dense food.

What can my Yorkie eat besides dog food?

Dogs love treats! So, aside from dog food, you can offer healthy treats to your Yorkie. This includes fruits like apples and watermelon bites. Be sure to slice them into small chunks and remove any seeds. Cheese and yogurt are also healthy for your pooch. But, be cautious of the amount that you give. Yorkies can also snack on vegetables like carrots or pumpkins.

How much food should I feed my Yorkie?

When feeding your Yorkie, you must consider his needs at his current age. Puppies should be fed differently than adults or senior Yorkies. In general, Yorkshire Terriers need a minimum of 150-200 calories a day. This translates to ½ cup to 2 and a half cups of dog food in a day, divided into portions.

Do Yorkies prefer wet or dry food?

Wet and dry foods have their advantages and caveats. Wet food may appeal better to Yorkies, but it can cause loose stools. Dry food contains proteins and carbohydrates. It also helps clean the teeth. But, it may be hard to feed dry food alone. Mixing both dry and wet food works well!

How many times a day should I feed my Yorkie?

Yorkies are prone to developing hypoglycemia. So, it is important to feed them on the right schedule so they have enough calories for the day. Two to four-month-old puppies should be fed 5 to 6 times a day. Then the frequency declines to 3 to 4 times a day once they reach adulthood.

Yorkshire terriers are small dogs with big personalities. That is why many people love this breed. Their tiny size needs the right nourishment, so they can thrive. Now you’ve gained the knowledge on the best Yorkie dog food. You can ensure your mighty Yorkie receives the right love and care from you.

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