5 Best Dog food for Yorkies

Which is the best dog food for Yorkies?

I have tested top market products and found Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food to be the best dog food for Yorkie overall.

As a canine Nutritionist and pet owner, I have tested various foods. My main concern was my dog’s health as they got older.

The Yorkshire Terrier is energetic, feisty, and authoritative but also affectionate. It is considered a good apartment dog. 

Friendly with other pets, even cats, but needs to be trained first about the house rules.

In the United States, the breed first appeared in shows during the late 1800s. Today, the Yorkie is primarily a pampered companion and lapdog. (1)

Yorkies need to be protected from bad weather. The breed is sensitive to cold. When walking outside, a dog coat has to be worn when cold. 

Toy dog such as the Yorkie is more likely to be injured by falls, other dogs, and owner clumsiness. 

Undersized Yorkies (under 3 lb or 1.4 kg) generally have a shorter life span, as they are especially prone to health problems such as chronic diarrhoea and vomiting.

It is crucial to monitor your Yorkies’ food intake and display any sensitivity to a particular food item. 

Here are my TOP 5 choices for the best food for Yorkies

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food (Best Dog Food For Yorkies Overall)

Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health Small & Toy Breed Puppy Grain-Free Chicken, Chickpea & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food (Best Dog Food For Yorkies Puppy Formula)

Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food (Best Dog Food For Yorkies Adult Formula)

Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Small Breed Formula Dry Dog Food (Best Dog Food For Yorkies Senior Formula)

Nulo Freestyle Duck & Chickpeas Recipe Grain-Free Small Breed & Puppy Canned Dog Food (Best Dog Food For Yorkies Wet Formula)

Best Dog Food For Yorkies Review

All best dog food for Yorkies included in this list is within the standard of AAFCO and AAHA guidelines. It is advisable to speak with your dog’s veterinarian before changing its diet.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

Best dog food for Yorkies overall

Top 5 ingredients

Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley

Key Features

No Corn No Wheat No Soy

Guaranteed Analysis 

Crude Protein 26.0% min, Crude Fat 15.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, Moisture 10.0% max

Calories

397 kcal/cup

Perfect for

Overall

The Benefits

• High-quality protein for healthy muscle development.
• Carbohydrates for energy.
• Unique “small breed” kibble for smaller jaws that promotes tartar removal.
• Glucosamine for joint health and mobility
• Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
• Vitamins, chelated minerals and antioxidants for immune system health.
• No chicken (or poultry) by-product meals.

Customer review

By Elvis, Read More

“My little guy can be picky. I like to change his food now and then for variety. He took to this food the first time I offered it to him.”

By Foxy, Read More
Foxy is tolerating this food well with no stomach issues. The first premium food I tried was a grain-free kibble that she could not handle.

She would get us up at 3 or 4 am and eat grass. Thankfully, we have not had that since changing her food to this brand. A happy dog makes for happy parents.

By Giselle, Read More
“My dog loves this brand. The kibble is small enough for him to eat with no issues. I tried many brands, and my dog liked this one best.

They offer lots of size bags. I also love to zip the bag closed to keep it fresh. My dog has been healthier and has a nice shiny coat. I recommend this brand!’

Solid Gold Mighty Mini Gut Health Small & Toy Breed Puppy Grain-Free Chicken, Chickpea & Pumpkin Dry Dog Food

Best dog food for Yorkies puppy formula

Top 5 ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Meal, Chickpeas, Peas, Pea Protein

Key Features

Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy

Guaranteed Analysis 

Crude Protein 30.0% min, Crude Fat 18.0% min, Crude Fiber 4.0% max, 

Moisture 10.0% max

Calories

450 kcal/cup

Perfect for

Puppies

The Benefits

• They are specially crafted for toy and small breed dogs with smaller kibble pieces.
• Features probiotic support for your furry friend’s gut health.
• 100% free from grains and gluten.
• Meat protein source supports overall digestive health and is excellent for dogs with a sensitive stomach.

Customer reviews
Meeyah, Read More
“My puppy loved it! No problem changing my dog’s food or adapting to it.”

Cassondra, Read More
I have inherited a dog that has never eaten dog food in his life. He was always given table scraps. I was worried he would not eat it, and the vet said he needed to be on dog food.

I put this in his bowl, and at first, he was extremely hesitant, but I pretended like it was a treat, and he ate it! Now he does this cute little dance every time I go near the bag.

Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

Best dog food for Yorkies adult formula

Top 5 ingredients

Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Rice Bran

Key Features

Digestive Health, Skin & Coat Health, No GMO

Guaranteed Analysis 

Crude Protein 22.0% min, Crude Fat 14.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.5% max, 

Moisture 10.0% max

Calories

341 kcal/cup

Perfect for

Adults

The Benefits

• High-quality lamb protein for lean muscles and bone health.
• Non-GMO ingredients.
• No chicken by-product meal.
• Essential antioxidants to support the immune system.
• Natural fiber to support digestion.
• Small-sized kibble is excellent for dogs who prefer petite bites.
• One year and older.

Customer Reviews
BonB, Read More
“Trying to wean my dogs off chicken which seems to make them itch. Both like this lamb and rice kibble. No trouble with the switch.”

RedZebra66, Read More
This is the best dog food I’ve ever used. She doesn’t eat as much & is in better shape. My dog’s bad breath went away since I changed dog food.

I can tell she feels better. Her stools are solid & not runny, so they’re easy to clean up. I’ve bragged about it so much that my friends with dogs & cats have switched to it.

Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Small Breed Formula Dry Dog Food

Best dog food for Yorkies senior formula

Top 5 ingredients

Chicken, Rice, Poultry By-Product Meal (Source Of Glucosamine), Whole Grain Corn, Corn Gluten Meal

Key Features

High-Protein, Weight Control

Guaranteed Analysis 

Crude Protein 29.0% min, Crude Fat 16.0% min, Crude Fiber 3.0%, Moisture 12.0%

Calories

487 kcal/cup

Perfect for

Seniors

The Benefits

• Live probiotics for digestive and immune health.
• Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals maintain strong bones and teeth.
• Brain function supporting nutrients including arginine, DHA, and EPA and enhanced botanical oils.
• Developed to help maintain ideal body condition with a great protein-to-fat ratio.

Customer Reviews
Scooter, Read More
“Very pleased with the Purina Pro Plan Adult 7+ I purchased. Our little guy loves it, and we can see a difference in his energy. Has to help greatly with his stomach issues as well.”

StitchMom, Read More
I’m not a fan of Purina products; they contain too much corn and too many unnecessary ingredients. I’m a raw-food, highest-quality kibble you can buy or make-my-own-food dog mom.

But when my Stitch developed canine cognitive dysfunction, and several people told me they swear that Bright Mind helps their dogs, I tried it. And it does help. Stitch can eat it for one thing. One of CCD’s nasty results is his inability to pick up and hold most food in his mouth. But the tiny pieces of kibble are easy for him to pick up a towel, chew and swallow.

And since he’s been on it, the CCD doesn’t seem to have him in as tight a grip as it did. Oh, it’s still there, but he relaxes more easily and falls asleep much more quickly at night (like many CCD dogs, that’s his rough time). So, yeah, I believe it helps. And I’m eternally grateful for it.

Nulo Freestyle Duck & Chickpeas Recipe Grain-Free Small Breed & Puppy Canned Dog Food

Best dog food for Yorkies wet formula

Top 5 ingredients

Duck, Duck Broth, Turkey Liver, Chickpeas, Dicalcium Phosphate

Key Features

Grain-Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Gluten Free, High-Protein, Low Glycemic, Chicken-Free

Guaranteed Analysis 

Crude Protein 10.5% min, Crude Fat 8.0% min, Crude Fiber 1.5% max, Moisture 78.0% max

Calories

223 kcal/can

Perfect for

Adults

The Benefits

• Comes in smaller tinned portions sizes for small breed dogs.
• L-carnitine supports the metabolisms of fats for healthy weight.
• A real duck naturally contains amino acids to support a healthy heart and lean muscle mass.
• Pea fiber and inulin work together to support a healthy digestive system.
• It is made without corn, wheat, soy, or artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors.

Customer Reviews
FiFi, Read More
“I have a new puppy and had to find food that both small dogs (adult and puppy) can eat.

I wanted the best quality food, and someone told me that good food and water bottle should help their eye discharge (they both have stains around their eyes).

So I am combining this wet food with Nulo dry food. They like it. I need more time to see eye results. So far, so good.”

Terry, Read More
I decided to try commercial dog food again. This one came highly recommended. My dog likes it and is tolerating it well. It’s such a worry to have high-quality food but so far, so good with this one.

Best Buy Guide For Best Dog Food For Yorkies

What to look for in best dog food for Yorkies?

It is important to choose food that offers a balanced formula containing energy, minerals, micro-nutrients, and vitamins. However, small breeds like the Yorkie often risk being overfed or overly babied.

Meat

This should be the first item on dog food’s ingredients list. This will generally be chicken, beef, lamb, venison in commercial dog food.

Meat meal

This might throw your “off’ at first. But this is more protein-rich gram for gram than a whole chicken. This also is rich in nutrients.

Grains and Carbohydrates

In recent years grains have become a controversial topic in dog food. However, as long as your dog does not have a sensitivity or allergy to grains, this can be a very nutritious option for your dog.

Carbohydrates provide your pet with energy. Corn, soy, and whole wheat are considered lower quality ingredients, but rice, oats, barley, and peas are better. These should be lower on the ingredient list after meat sources. Good grains can provide your dog with good digestion. 

Veggies and Fruits

Although this is not something your dog needs, they are a great source of vitamins and minerals. 

For example: 

• Sweet potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin B, beta-carotene, and antioxidants that specifically help fight against cancer-causing agents.
• Blueberries and apples are excellent sources of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Cranberries may assist with urinary tract infections and help with dental hygiene by killing certain bacteria (2)

Fats

They are needed for proper digestion and cell function. They are perfect for a healthy coat and skin. Look for Omega 3,6, and 9 and flaxseed oil.

Vitamins, nutrients, and minerals

These are needed for many chemical reactions in your dog’s body, such as building bones and keeping them strong. (3)

• Vitamin A for a healthy coat
• Vitamin B complex for the nervous system, brain function, and growth of blood cells, B12 maintains healthy digestion.
• Vitamin C is great for the immune system (note that dogs make their Vitamin C)

Preservatives

These keep your dog food fresh for longer. However, look for preservatives such as tocopherols and ascorbic acid from natural sources.

Water

A dog needs to have access to drinking water. If a dog loses even 10% of its body water reserve, it can be in real danger or die. 

Check with your veterinarian if one of these formulas of best dog food for Yorkies could be beneficial for your dog.

How much of best dog food for Yorkies should I feed?

There are simple guides on every dog food pack. However, they are very generous and are aimed at un-neutered or pregnant dogs most of the time. 

If in doubt, your local vet practitioner will be able to advise on your dog’s specific food amount needs.

Here are some general feeding guidelines:

Weight of Dog             Daily Feeding (cups)

UP TO 5 LBS                   1/4 – 1/2

6 – 7 LBS                          1/2 – 1

For Puppies

Generally, divide the amount of food into four meals during the day. Spreading out is vital as large meals can upset small stomachs.

For Adults and Seniors

Aim feeding three times a day. In the morning and the evening. If a few snacks are offered during the day, the meal dimes can be limited to 2 main meals. 

What not to feed my Yorkie?

The strength of your dog’s immune system, disease resistance, and quality of life all depend on the type and quality of food it eats. 

It is tempting to give your dog table scraps or “human foods,” but some of this can be harmful and even deadly to your dog.

This is why it is essential to feed the best dog food for Yorkies where possible.

See our article for more details on which foods dogs should not eat: 18 human foods dogs shouldn’t eat.

You will be surprised by what those foods are.

When should I change my Yorkies food from puppy to adult food?

At a one-year mark, Yorkie is classed as an adult.  Owners should do an 8-10 day transition from puppy food to adult food. Note that switching foods might upset a dog’s stomach for a few days. If tummy troubles persist, speak to your local veterinarian for advice.

How to transition my Yorkies diet to a new food brand?

Start by mixing 25% of NEW kibble with your dog’s old food, and gradually increase the proportion of NEW kibble over the next 14 days.

It is crucial to gradually switch the food as your dog might experience digestive issues otherwise.

FAQ

What can be a good treat for Yorkshire Terriers?

The treats have to be small enough to fit in Yorkies smallmouth.

Yorkies love chewy, crunchy treats. Especially great for teething puppies. Raw vegetables: beans, peas, baby carrots, and sweet potatoes.

It is good to choose a low-calorie treat, so there is no need to worry that Your dog will become overweight.

Suppose packaged commercial treats are considered. Make sure that the size is right regarding the flavour. Yorkies love meaty flavours and are not picky. In the end, you can never go wrong with chicken if you have a picky Yorkie.

Yorkies are prone to fragile bones and joints due to their size. Consider giving treats with Glucosamine & Chondroitin. These will help your pup with any bone or joint problems by easing pain and promoting regeneration. 

Remember that treats should not substitute for the best dog food for Yorkies.

Check for the best supplements here.

Dry V Wet food?  Which is better?

The fundamental difference between wet and dry food is primarily different water content. While dry food has a moisture content of just 3 to 12%, this is between 60 to 84% for wet food. (4)

This means that dog will need to eat three times as much wet food as kibble to gain caloric value.

Kibble is great as it keeps fresh longer. It comes in larger portion size bags, which means less packaging for the environment. 

There are divided views on whether kibble is better for a dog’s teeth. Does it clean teeth or leave residue after a meal. This will not be an issue for those owners who regularly brush their dog’s teeth.

Check dry formulas for best dog food for Yorkies here.

Wet food is messier around the bowl and needs to be bought larger quantities. However, wet food can be God-sent if a dog is shy to drink water.

Check wet formulas for best dog food for Yorkies here.

What should I know about Yorkie health?

There are some recurrent issues in Yorkies specific to their breed to consider. That will affect the kind of nutrition if your dog suffers from these health problems.

Hypoglycemia

Puppies’ low blood sugar is caused by too much time between meals). They are often seen in Yorkie puppies at 5 to 16 weeks. In rare cases, it can continue in adult Yorkies.

What influences Hypoglycaemia:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Cold environment
• Poor nutrition
• Change in diet
• Change in feeding schedule
• Bacterial infection
• Parasite or portosystemic liver shunt.

The puppy becomes tired, shaky, uncoordinated, gets pale or grey gums, has low body temperature, might have a seizure, and go into a coma. The puppy also may not eat unless force-fed and might stop drinking. 

A dog showing symptoms should be given sugar in the form of honey. 

Treated by a veterinarian immediately, as prolonged or recurring attacks of Hypoglycaemia can permanently damage the dog’s brain. In severe cases, it can be fatal.

Skin Allergies

Skin problems in Yorkies occur when they develop allergies following exposure to chemicals, fleas, pollen, or other known triggers.

Excessive itching, scratching, irritation, or hair loss hints at the possibility of skin allergies. 

Note:

Wasps or bee stings are life-threatening for your dog. If you notice that your dog displays these symptoms after being stung, see a vet immediately: drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and collapsing.

Dental issues

This happens due to their small jaws and overcrowded teeth. This can lead to a buildup of plaque, decay, and disease that may spread to other organs.

Symptoms

• Bad breath
• Difficulty eating
• Difficulty holding toys in their mouth
• Swollen/ inflamed gums
• Losing teeth

Owners are encouraged to brush Yorkies teeth every day and visit a specialist for a deep clean and x-ray annually.

Obesity

It is crucial to maintain Yorkies ideal weight. Heavier can worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. 

Though it’s tempting to give your leftover to dogs people, food, and doggie treats, this can be substituted for a hug, brush of fur, playtime, or walk.

Infections

Like other dogs, Yorkie can get rabies, parvo, and distemper.

Make sure that your Yorkie has up-to-date vaccines and is up to date with all medicines needed for his age.

Can I feed my Yorkie scrambled eggs?

Yes, Yorkie can eat eggs in raw and cooked form. However, there is a risk of bacterial infection with raw eggs.

However, make sure that there are no additives like spices, salt, pepper, and garlic.

Eggs contain protein, vitamin B7, and D. 

The benefits of eating eggs are stronger bones and teeth, a healthy coat, proper digestion, and a proper reproductive tract.

What “human foods” can Yorkie eat?

There are some “human” foods that Yorkie can eat as part of a balanced meal or a healthy snack.

See our article 15 Healthy human foods that my dog can eat to be happier for more detail.

In Conclusion

My vote for the best dog food for Yorkies overall goes to Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food. This dog food provides balanced nutrition to Yorkies for a healthy and happy life. 

This food has a small size kibble for small Yorkie jaws. Proper nutrients for healthy skin and coat. High-quality protein to support bones and teeth. 

Choose your best dog food for Yorkies here.