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This is our review of the best dog food for Yorkies in 2023.
Yorkshire Terriers, commonly known as “Yorkies“, are a popular toy breed known for their playful and affectionate personalities. As a small breed, their digestive system and nutritional needs are different from other dogs, making it important to choose the right food for them.
When choosing the best food for your Yorkie, it is important to consider several factors, such as the dog’s age, weight, and overall health. The ideal dog food should be specially formulated for small breeds and provide the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support their energetic lifestyle.
It is also recommended to choose a high-quality dog food made with real meat as the main ingredient and avoid foods with fillers and artificial preservatives. Additionally, consulting with a veterinarian can provide more personalized recommendations based on your dog’s individual dietary needs.
With so many options available, finding the best food for your Yorkie can be overwhelming. This article provides a list of the 10 best dog foods for Yorkies to help make the decision easier.
Our Top Picks for The Best Dog Food for Yorkies
- Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food (Best Premium Dog Food for Yorkies)
- Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula (Best Dog Food for Active Yorkies)
- Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Formula (Best High Protein Dog Food for Yorkies)
- Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food
- Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe (Best for Yorkies With Grain Sensitivities)
- Nutro Ultra Small Breed Dry Dog Food
- CANIDAE All Life Stages Toy Breed Formula
- Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Small Breed Recipe
- Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites (Best for Yorkies With Food Sensitivities)
- Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets for Small Breeds (Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food for Yorkies)
Our 10 Best Dog Food for Yorkies Reviewed
Before we dive in, I want to tell you that all the dog food I included in this list meets the standard AAFCO nutrient profile guidelines for dogs.
Also, we always recommend you consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your Yorkie’s diet.
1. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Brewers Rice, Brown Rice, Chicken By-Product Meal, Chicken Fat, Wheat Gluten
- Nutrient Content: 26% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: With Grain
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for Yorkies because it is specifically formulated to meet their unique nutritional needs. It is tailored to provide balanced nutrition with a high-quality protein source and a blend of essential vitamins and minerals. This ensures that your Yorkie receives all the nutrients they need to support their overall health and well-being.
And as Yorkies have a long, silky coat that requires proper nutrition to stay shiny and healthy. This food is fortified with essential fatty acids and other nutrients that promote skin and coat health.
The small, crunchy kibble in this formula is specifically designed for small jaws and teeth, making it easier for Yorkies to chew and digest their food. This is especially important for small breeds like the Yorkie, as they may have trouble eating larger kibble sizes. The small kibble size also makes it easier for the food to be mixed with wet food or treats for added variety.
And, it supports digestive health. The food contains a blend of fibers to promote digestive health and prevent constipation, which can be a common issue for small breeds like the Yorkie. The formula also supports a healthy digestive system, which is important for maintaining overall health and well-being.
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
- Nutrient Content: 26% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, With Grain, Natural
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula provides balanced nutrition specifically formulated for small breeds. One of the key benefits of this food is that it is made with high-quality protein from real chicken as the first ingredient, which provides the energy and nutrients that Yorkies need to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Another reason why Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula is a great option is that it is made with wholesome, natural ingredients. The food contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, and it is free from by-product meals. This makes it a healthier and more nutritious option for Yorkies, as it minimizes the risk of digestive upset and other health issues.
The food also contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. This includes ingredients such as blueberries, cranberries, and sweet potatoes, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immunity and help maintain a healthy weight.
In addition, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula is made with a small kibble size that is easy for Yorkies to eat and digest. This is especially important for small breeds, as they may have trouble eating larger kibble sizes. The small kibble size also makes it easier for the food to be mixed with wet food or treats for added variety.
Finally, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Toy Breed Formula is made in the USA, ensuring that the food is made with high-quality ingredients and standards. This gives pet parents peace of mind that they are feeding their Yorkies the best possible nutrition.
3. Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Formula
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Ground Brown Rice, Rice
- Nutrient Content: 30% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, With Grain, Natural
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Yorkies are known to have higher metabolism rates compared to larger breeds, which means they require more calories per pound of body weight. This formula provides the necessary calorie density to meet the energy needs of toy breeds.
Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Formula is a good option for Yorkies, it features high-quality protein sources, such as deboned chicken and turkey, to support the growth and maintenance of lean muscle mass. It also contains wholesome vegetables and fruits, such as sweet potatoes and blueberries, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, this formula is made without any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, ensuring that your Yorkie is only consuming natural, nutritious ingredients.
Another reason why this formula is a good choice is its smaller kibble size. Toy breeds have smaller mouths and teeth, so this smaller kibble size makes it easier for them to eat and chew their food. This formula also includes probiotics to support digestive health, as well as added antioxidants for a strong immune system.
Overall, Wellness Complete Health Toy Breed Formula is a well-rounded and nutritious diet for your Yorkie. It meets the unique needs of toy breeds, provides high-quality protein sources, and is made with wholesome ingredients. This makes it a great choice for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Cracked Pearled Barley, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Wheat
- Nutrient Content: 16% Crude Protein, 11% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber
- Type of Product: Limited Ingredient Diet, With Grain
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food is another great option for Yorkies as it is specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small and toy breeds, including the Yorkshire Terrier. This formula provides the right balance of nutrients to support their overall health and wellness.
One of the key features of this formula is its high-quality protein content, which comes from chicken. This protein supports the growth and maintenance of lean muscle mass, which is important for keeping your Yorkie healthy and active. The formula also contains a blend of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which support a strong immune system.
This formula is also enhanced with Hill’s proprietary blend of natural fibers, which helps to promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. Additionally, it is made without any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, ensuring that your dog is consuming only wholesome ingredients.
Overall, Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed Dry Dog Food is a nutritious and balanced diet for your Yorkie. Its high-quality protein, antioxidant blend, and natural fibers make it a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition. With its smaller kibble size and wholesome ingredients, this formula is sure to be a hit with even the most finicky eaters.
5. Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Potatoes
- Nutrient Content: 30% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat, 3.5% Crude Fiber, 11% Moisture
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Grain-Free, Gluten Free, Sensitive Digestion, Premium
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe is made with high-quality ingredients, such as deboned chicken and turkey, to provide the protein and nutrients your dog needs for a healthy and active life.
This formula is grain-free, making it a good choice for dogs with grain sensitivities. It also contains sweet potatoes and peas, which are excellent sources of carbohydrates for energy. Additionally, this formula is enhanced with probiotics to support digestive health and added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness.
Overall, Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain-Free Small Breed Recipe is a balanced and nutritious diet for your Yorkie. Its grain-free formula, high-quality protein sources, and smaller kibble size make it a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition.
With its wholesome ingredients and added probiotics, this formula is sure to support the health and happiness of your furry companion.
6. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Dry Dog Food
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Sorghum, Whole Grain Oats, Whole Grain Brown Rice
- Nutrient Content: 26% Crude Protein, 17% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Pea-Free, Natural, Molasses-Free, Non-GMO
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Dry Dog Food features high-quality ingredients, such as deboned chicken, lamb, and salmon, to provide the protein and nutrients your dog needs for a healthy and active life.
It also features wholesome, non-GMO ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, so you can feel confident that you are providing your Yorkie with a nutritious diet that is free of harmful additives. Additionally, this formula is enhanced with antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, to support a strong immune system.
What I like most about this formula is its blend of whole grains, such as brown rice and barley, which provide carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestive health. Additionally, it contains added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness.
Nutro Ultra Small Breed Dry Dog Food is a balanced and nutritious diet for your Yorkie. Its wholesome ingredients, smaller kibble size, and added antioxidants make it a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition.
7. CANIDAE All Life Stages Toy Breed Formula
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Brown Rice, Peas, Oatmeal
- Nutrient Content: 24% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 4.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: No Corn No Wheat No Soy, With Grain
- Life Stage: All Life Stages
CANIDAE All Life Stages Toy Breed Formula is designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs of all life stages, including puppies, adults, and seniors. This formula is made with high-quality ingredients, such as chicken, lamb, and fish, to provide the protein and nutrients your dog needs for a healthy and active life.
One of the key features of this formula is its multiple protein sources, which can help provide a balanced diet for your Yorkie. Additionally, it contains wholesome grains, such as brown rice and barley, which provide carbohydrates for energy and fiber for digestive health. This formula is also enhanced with added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness.
Another advantage of this formula is its smaller kibble size, which is designed to be easy for small breeds to eat and chew. This formula is also made without any artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, so you can rest assured that you are providing your Yorkie with a nutritious diet that is free of harmful additives.
Overall, CANIDAE All Life Stages Toy Breed Formula is a balanced and nutritious diet for your Yorkie. Its multiple protein sources, wholesome grains, and smaller kibble size make it a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best possible nutrition. With its wholesome ingredients and added vitamins and minerals, this formula is sure to support the health and happiness of your furry companion.
8. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Small Breed Recipe
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Ocean Fish Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Peas, Pea Flour
- Nutrient Content: 25% Crude Protein, 15% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Chicken-Free
- Life Stage: Yorkie Puppies
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Small Breed Recipe is a great dog food option for Yorkies because it is specifically formulated to meet the unique nutritional needs of small breeds, including the Yorkshire Terrier. This formula is made with high-quality ingredients, such as smoked salmon, potatoes, and peas, to provide the protein and nutrients your dog needs for a healthy and active life.
This formula is grain-free, which is great for dogs with grain sensitivities. It is also enhanced with added vitamins and minerals to support overall health and wellness. Additionally, this formula contains antioxidants from fruits and vegetables to support a strong immune system.
Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Small Breed Recipe is inspired by the ancestral diet of wild dogs, and it provides your Yorkie with a balanced and nutritious diet that is based on natural ingredients.
9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Meal, Sweet Potatoes, Tapioca Starch, Potatoes
- Nutrient Content: 24% Crude Protein, 10% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
- Type of Product: Sensitive Digestion, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Limited Ingredient Diet, Grain-Free
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites is a great dog food option for Yorkies because it offers a simple and limited ingredient formula that is easy to digest and gentle on their sensitive stomachs. The food features a single source of protein, such as duck or salmon, which helps reduce the risk of food allergies and sensitivities.
The small bite-size kibble is perfect for the small mouths of Yorkies, and the formula is balanced with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support their overall health. Additionally, the food is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, which makes it a healthier and safer choice for your pet.
Another important factor that makes Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites is a great choice for Yorkies is that it provides a balanced diet that helps maintain their weight. Yorkies are prone to weight gain and obesity, which can lead to other health issues, so feeding them a balanced diet is crucial. With the right balance of nutrients and caloric intake, Natural Balance L.I.D. can help keep your Yorkie at a healthy weight.
In conclusion, Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Small Breed Bites is a great dog food option for Yorkies because it offers a simple and limited ingredient formula that is gentle on their digestive system, free from artificial additives, and balanced with essential nutrients for their overall health.
10. Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets for Small Breeds
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Livers, Organic Carrots, Organic Squash, Organic Kale
- Nutrient Content: 47% Crude Protein, 25% Crude Fat, 6% Crude Fiber, 3% Moisture
- Type of Product: Grain-Free, Gluten Free, No Corn No Wheat No Soy, Raw, Pea-Free, Natural, Premium
- Life Stage: Adult Yorkies
Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets for Small Breeds is a great dog food option for Yorkies because it offers a high-quality and nutritious diet that is based on the ancestral diet of wild canines. The food is made with human-grade ingredients that are carefully sourced and processed to provide your pet with the highest quality nutrition possible.
One of the key benefits of this food is that it is freeze-dried, which locks in the flavor and nutrients of the ingredients. This means that your Yorkie will receive all the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants they need to maintain good health, even in a small and convenient serving size.
Another advantage of Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets is that it is made with high-quality protein sources like cage-free chicken and chicken livers. This provides your pet with the necessary protein to support their muscular and skeletal health and a healthy coat and skin.
Additionally, this food is free from grains, gluten, and artificial preservatives, which makes it a great option for Yorkies that may have food sensitivities. The food is also easy to digest, which is important for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
In conclusion, Primal Pet Foods Freeze-Dried Nuggets for Small Breeds is a great dog food option for Yorkies because it provides a high-quality, nutritious, and easy-to-digest diet that is based on the ancestral diet of wild canines. The food is made with human-grade ingredients, and free from grains, gluten, and artificial preservatives, which makes it a safe and healthy choice for your pet.
How to Choose The Best Dog Food for Yorkies
Yorkies are small breeds with high energy levels, so their diets need to provide them with the right balance of nutrients to support their overall health
Choosing the best dog food for Yorkies can be a challenge, but it is important to consider several key factors to ensure that your pet is receiving a balanced and nutritious diet.
Yorkies Nutritional Needs
When choosing the best dog food for your Yorkshire Terrier, it is important to consider their nutritional needs. Yorkshire Terriers are a small breed of dog, with a tendency to gain weight easily, so it’s important to choose a food that is nutritionally balanced and calorie-controlled.
Protein Content:
Protein is the foundation of a healthy diet for Yorkies, as it provides the necessary building blocks for the growth, repair, and maintenance of body tissues. Look for a dog food that contains a minimum of 18% protein, and choose a food that features a single source of high-quality protein, such as chicken, fish, or lamb. This can help reduce the risk of food sensitivities and allergies.
Fat Content
Fats are important for Yorkies, as they provide energy, support skin and coat health, and help absorb fat-soluble vitamins. Look for a food that contains at least 8% fat, and choose a food that includes healthy fats, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Carbohydrates and Fiber
While Yorkies need some carbohydrates for energy, it is important to choose a food that does not contain too many empty calories. Look for a food that is low in simple carbohydrates, like sugar, and high in complex carbohydrates, like whole grains and vegetables. This will help regulate blood sugar levels and promote digestive health.
Fiber is important for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels. Look for a food that contains at least 3% fiber.
Vitamins and Minerals
Yorkies need a balanced diet that provides the necessary vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. Look for a food that contains essential vitamins, like Vitamin A and Vitamin E, as well as minerals, like calcium and phosphorus, to support their bone health.
Caloric Content
When choosing dog food for your Yorkie, it is important to consider the caloric content of the food. Yorkies are small dogs with high energy levels, so they require a diet that provides them with enough energy to support their active lifestyle. On the other hand, if they consume too many calories, they can easily become overweight, which can lead to other health problems.
So, how to calculate your dog’s daily caloric needs? It’s a very simple process, it’s usually done by multiplying their ideal body weight by a factor of 30 to 40 calories per pound. For example, if your Yorkie weighs 6 pounds, their daily caloric needs would be between 180 and 240 calories.
Common Yorkie Health Issues and How Diet Can Help
Yorkies are small, energetic dogs that are popular as pets. However, despite their cute appearance, they are prone to a number of health issues. Some of the most common health problems faced by Yorkies include dental problems, liver shunts, and skin allergies.
Dental problems
Dental problems in Yorkies can arise from a number of factors, including genetics, poor diet, and lack of dental hygiene. These problems can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues that can cause pain and discomfort for the dog.
To prevent these problems, it is important to provide your Yorkie with a balanced diet that includes plenty of calcium and other nutrients to support healthy teeth and gums. This can be achieved through a combination of dry kibble, raw bones, and fresh, cooked meat.
Liver shunts
Liver shunts are another common health problem faced by Yorkies. This is a congenital condition where the liver is not able to filter toxins effectively, leading to a buildup of waste products in the blood. Symptoms of liver shunts can include vomiting, diarrhea, poor growth, and lethargy.
To help prevent this condition, it is important to feed your Yorkie a diet that is low in protein and easy for the liver to process.
Skin allergies
Skin allergies are also common in Yorkies, and can be caused by a number of factors, including genetics, food allergies, and environmental allergens. Symptoms of skin allergies include itching, redness, and hair loss. To help prevent skin allergies, it is important to feed your Yorkie a diet that is free from common allergens, such as soy, wheat, and corn. You can also provide them with supplements and fatty acids to support healthy skin and coats.
In conclusion, providing your Yorkie with a balanced, nutritious diet can help prevent many common health problems and support their overall well-being. By paying attention to their diet and feeding them a variety of healthy foods, you can help keep your Yorkie happy and healthy for many years to come.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, when choosing the best dog food for Yorkies, it’s important to consider the breed’s dietary needs, including its small size and tendency for dental issues. Look for a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet that includes protein from animal sources, and avoid foods with artificial preservatives, fillers, and by-products.
Out of all the dog food I reviewed, I found that Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food is the best option for Yorkies. But, every dog’s condition is different that’s why I encourage you to make your choices accordingly. Ultimately, providing a healthy and balanced diet is crucial for maintaining your Yorkie’s overall well-being and health.
And, before you make any changes in your Yorkies diet, I highly recommend that you consult a vet.
