The Best Dog Food for Yorkies in 2022
- The Best Dog Food for Yorkies
- 1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food
- 2. Canidae Under the Sun Dog Food
- 3. Merrick Classic Small Breed Dry Dog Food
- 4. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
- 5. Taste of The Wild Dry Dog Food
- 6. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Dog Food
- 7. Natural Balance Dry Dog Food
- 8. Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dog Food
- 9. Earthborn Holistic Small Breed Natural Dog Food
When it comes to any pedigree pup, it’s essential that you feed them a diet that is high in nutrients and supportive of their overall health. The food that animals consume (much like humans), can either be their greatest medicine and prevent a multitude of ills, or cause harm. By feeding your Yorkshire Terrier a diet that is highly nutritional and specifically formulated for their unique needs, you’ll be giving your pup the best chance in life. Good quality foods will help your beloved Yorkie to maintain their silky coat, exert maximum energy, and ward off a number of deficiencies that can arise from an inadequate diet.
Yorkies are a small breed and usually only weigh around 7-10 pounds. Their tummies are small, and they don’t need a lot of food to survive. However, because their stomachs are small and they can’t it a lot, it’s all the more reason to ensure that the food they are eating is high in vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, and good minerals. Every bite they eat needs to be enriched with brilliant quality ingredients that will enhance their wellbeing and give them the best change at overall health.
As always, our list of best picks contains products for all budgets and needs. We’ve researched an array of top-quality foods for Yorkies and these items are backed-up with positive reviews. As always, consult your vet before opting for a new food and follow the guidelines carefully to integrate their new food into their diet, without causing any problems.
Your Yorkie deserves the absolute best, and these highly nutritional and healthy food options won’t disappoint! The signs of good health can be found in your pup’s eyes, skin, teeth, coat, and joints, and if you opt for a high-quality food that is packed with fantastic nutrients, you can ensure that your pup gets the best start in life and is as healthy as can be!
The Best Dog Food for Yorkies
1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dog Food
Key Features
Real chicken
High protein to support healthy muscle mass
Smaller kibble for smaller jaws
Grain-free
Free from wheat, corn, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives
When it comes to high quality food that boasts complete nutritional quality, Blue Wilderness know what they’re talking about. This amazing product is perfect for smaller pups and will give them all the nutrients they need to ensure that they are experiencing optimal health. Packed with real chicken this amazing brand boasts delicious flavour and high protein to help your pooch maintain lean and healthy muscle mass. Since this is a grain free brand, it will support your pup reach maximum energy levels and the smaller kibble is perfect for their smaller jaws. This brand contains only quality ingredients and minerals and contains no by-products like wheat, corn, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This is holistic health at its finest and users have commended this brand for its delicious taste, great nutrition, and healthy coat and skin support. As always, consult your vet before changing dog foods and do it in a gentle manner so as not to upset your pups tum.
2. Canidae Under the Sun Dog Food
Key Features
Free of grains
Lamb, chicken, or white fish protein
Farm grown fruit and veg including pumpkin, peas, blueberries, and carrots
Rich in probiotics
Loaded with Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids to support skin and coat health
Next up on our list of amazing dog food for your Yorkie, is a superb pick by Canidae. This brand is perfectly suited for your adult Yorkie uses a number of simple and recognizable ingredients. Canidae is free of grains and potatoes and thus your pup will fill up on nutritionally dense calories, rather than empty ones. Recipes include lamb, chicken, white-fish, and an abundance of farm grown fruits and veggies including butternut squash, peas, carrots, pumpkin, and blueberries. This make also includes probiotics which will support your pup’s digestion and is rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids to support amazing skin and coat health and vitality. You can feel great about feeding your special pup this brand since they use top-quality ingredients. This brand combines amazing quality, with a brilliant price and certainly won’t disappoint you or your furry-friend. For more options, check out our detailed review of Canidae Dog Food.
3. Merrick Classic Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Small breed dry food
Potato free
Low GI food
Deboned chicken and veggies
High in Omega 3 and Omega 6 for skin and coat health
Leading levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin for healthy joints and hips
Number 3 on our list is a fantastic pick by Merrick. This classic small breed recipe is perfect for those small breed dogs in your life and will be perfectly suited to your little Yorkie. This potato free recipe offers a great low-GI option and the deboned chicken offers a delicious taste to your pup. This product is also rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 to aid in skin and coat vibrancy and health. It also has notable levels of Glucosamine and Chondroitin to support healthy joints and hips. Of course, if your pup is dealing with arthritis or a more chronic medical condition it is essential to get professional medical help and diet advice. This brand is also home-cooked in the USA and combines a delicious mix of chicken protein and vegetables. For more information on the brand, check out our Merrick Dog Food Review.
4. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Formulated for small dogs aged between 1 and 6 and under 25 pounds
High in calcium and protein for bone and muscle health
Rich in antioxidants
Contains Vitamin C and E
Chicken and rice flavour
Number 4 is a great choice from Hill’s Science diet. This dry adult pet food is perfectly formulated for smaller breeds and their specific dietary needs. This brand is tailored for dogs between the ages of 1 and 6 years old, who are under 25 pounds. It contains calcium and high-quality protein and calcium to ensure proper bone development and proper muscle strength. This brand has been clinically proven to have antioxidant benefits and Vitamin C and E for strengthened immunity. These benefits aim to support your pup’s overall health and extend their life. This delicious recipe combines chicken meal and rice and is calorie dense to ensure ultimate satisfaction all day long. Read our in-depth Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food review here.
5. Taste of The Wild Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Made with real venison
Rich in amino acids, antioxidants, and protein
Filled with fruits and veggies
Easily digestible
Made in the USA by a family-owned company
Number 5 is an excellent pick for your precious Yorkie and it’s made by Taste of the Wild. True to their name, this brand uses real venison as their number 1 ingredient. This ingredient has a brilliant amino acid profile and is rich in protein to ensure strong bone and muscle development. Filled with superfood fruits and veggies this brand prides itself on promoting optimal health. Each bite is filled with essential minerals and acids and to ensure ultimate health and wellbeing are experienced and its antioxidant rich properties ensure fantastic coat and skin health for your Yorkie. This product is highly digestible and thus your darling pooch will get all the nutrients that they need with every mouthful. This brand is made in the USA by a family-run business who truly care. Here’s a detailed look at Taste Of The Wild Dog Food.
6. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Dog Food
Key Features
Made for Yorkie’s 10 months and older
Rich in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
Specially design kibble shape for Yorkie’s smaller mouths and muzzles
Delicious flavor
Lucky number 7 on our awesome list of food for your Yorkie, is an excellent pick by Royal Canin. This amazing product is specifically formulated to meet the dietary needs of your Yorkie and is perfectly suited to pups aged 10 months and older. This brand truly knows how to create food that is tailored to your breed’s specific needs and the kibble is shape is designed for your Yorkie’s smaller mouth and muzzle. The Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids work wonders to enhance their coats shine and special nutrients will support the aging process and ensure your pup’s nutritional needs are met. This product’s delicious flavour will entice even the most picky of eaters and will support your pup in being their healthiest and happiest self.
7. Natural Balance Dry Dog Food
Key Features
Chicken and sweet potato formula
Aids digestive health
Supports skin and coat health
Smaller size kibble for your Yorkie
Free of artificial flavors, colours, and preservatives
Number 8 is a fantastic choice by Natural Balance. This chicken and sweet potato formula is bound to excite your pup and offer a complete balance for puppies and older pooches. This grain-free dog food prides itself on simplicity and uses minimal ingredients so that your pup is not exposed to an array of harmful things. This product aims to support your pups digestive health (which is paramount to achieving overall health) and will also enhance their skin and coat health. True to their name, this product is free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives and thus places health and wellbeing at the fore. This brand has specifically designed smaller kibble to meet your pup’s anatomical needs and this allows for easier and more enjoyable mealtimes. This brand combines quality with great value and is sure to be a hit with your Yorkie.
You may also like our article on Dry Dog Food.
8. Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Dog Food
Key Features
Formulated for smaller breeds
Smaller kibble
Rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, salmon oil and flaxseeds for skin and coat health
Void of harmful colorants, preservatives, flavors, soy, and meat by-products
Made in the USA
Second to last on our amazing list of best Yorkie foods, is a fabulous pick by Wellness Natural Pet Food. This brand prides itself on its passion for total health and offers brilliantly balanced ‘everyday nutrition’ for your darling pup. This product is specifically formulated for smaller breeds and a specialized smaller kibble has been created to make meal-times super easy and enjoyable. This product is all natural and contains premium quality ingredients. It is void of artificial colors, preservatives, flavors, and harmful ingredients like soy and meat-by products. This product also aids in better skin and coat health since it is rich in Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, salmon oil, and flaxseeds. Thus, every cuddle with your pooch will be silky smooth. Wellness Natural Pet Food is made in the USA and proudly backed by the wellness guarantee. Users have commended this brand on its delicious flavor, and freshness. Take a look at our review of Wellness Core Dog Food.
9. Earthborn Holistic Small Breed Natural Dog Food
Key Features
Holistic dry food for dogs
Perfect for pups weighing under 20 pounds
Omega 3 and omega 6 for coat and skin health
Resealable package that is BPA free and recyclable
The final pick on our list of best foods for your Yorkie, is a great product by Earthborn Holistic. This amazing brand pride themselves on creating holistic food for dogs and this grain-free Yorkie dog food won’t disappoint. This is perfect for pups weighing under 20 pounds and has a perfectly balanced ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids to ensure for ultimate skin and coat health. This resealable package will keep your pup’s food super fresh until it’s finished, and this packaging is BPA free and recyclable. Thus, this is a brand that truly cares about your pups needs and the environment and is a great pick for all nature lovers and their darling pups. Users have commended this brand on its freshness, awesome quality, and great value. It certainly won’t disappoint.
Best Dog Food for Yorkies Buying Guide
Ingredients to Look for in a Dog Food for Yorkies
Food can be the greatest medicine in your pup’s life and if they are fed a high-quality diet you can prolong their life and ensure that they remain happy and ailment free. A few important ingredients to look out for include:
- Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are essential for your pup’s overall well-being and will ensure that their skin and coat are super healthy and shiny.
- Probiotics aid in digestion and are essential for overall health. They put good bacteria back into your pup’s digestive tract. Many say that the gut is the seat of overall health in the body. So, opt for foods that are rich in probiotics, or consider a probiotic supplement. Always chat to your vet first.
- Calcium and Protein are super important to ensure proper bone and muscle strength and health. Strong bones and muscles that are properly developed can prevent and support problems that come with old age such as joint problems and arthritis. Always make sure your food is high in these nutritional essentials and chat to your vet if your pup is in any pain or struggling with joint issues. Find out more about calcium for dogs here.
- Antioxidants aid skin health and strengthen your pup’s immunity. Aim to opt for food that is rich in antioxidants. They can be found in many fruits and veggies and add vitality and health to your pup’s life.
Food to Avoid Feeding Your Yorkie
While some foods strength your pup’s immunity and extend their life, other foods can harm them, make them sick, and shorten their lives. Don’t feed your pup
- Junk Food (burgers, pizza, chips and anything with simple carbohydrates and saturated fats). These can cause an array of health issues from obesity to diabetes and will often make your pup feel sick and lead to an upset tummy.
- Non-Vet approved dog food (these have not been regulated or tested and thus you can never know for sure what’s in them.) These foods are often loaded with harmful colorants, preservatives, and flavors and usually contain grain, meat by-products, and soy. These ingredients are all harmful to your pup’s health. Opt for natural brands that use high quality ingredients.
- Too many treats. Treats are wonderful for praise and training. However, too many treats can cause weight issues which can impact your pup’s health and impact their vital organs and joints. Feed treats in moderation.
If you are looking for more options, check out our guides on Dog Treats and Vegan Dog Treats.
Common Health Problems in Yorkies - How Diet Can Help Them
Knowing the common ailments and health problems that your pup is susceptible to can help you to prevent possible health issues in the future. As a great philosopher once said, ‘pet food be thye medicine’ and that is exactly what food can be. A well-balanced, nutritional diet can prevent a number of serious health issues in your Yorkie and ensure that they live a happy and long life. Some of the following conditions can be prevalent in Yorkies, but a highly nutritional diet can go a long way in curbing their impact on your pup’s life.
- Hypoglycaemia
Hypoglycaemia occurs when your pup’s blood sugar drops to an abnormally low level. Unfortunately, this can be quite common in Yorkies and other small breed pooches. A great quality food that is suited for smaller and toy breeds will be able to counteract this problem. Always follow feeding guidelines properly and consult your vet if your pup is struggling.
- Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is caused by an inflammation of the pancreas and can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. It is usually caused by excess fat, toxicity, and bad dietary habits. However, it can be significantly improved by dietary changes. If you ensure that your Yorkie is being fed a nutrient-dense diet that is not too high in fat, you could prevent this from happening. If your pup is experiencing any of these symptoms always take them to a vet so that they can do a full check-up and give them the correct medical support.
- Obesity
Since Yorkies are so small, it’s super easy to over-feed them. If they don’t get enough exercise, then they can gain weight, and this can put unnecessary pressure on their joints and vital organs. A highly nutritional diet means that you don’t have to over-feed your pup and they will easily get their needed nutrition, without excess calories. For a wider selection of choices, check out our dog food for weight loss guide.
- Dull Coat
A lack of proper nutrition can lead to coats becoming dull. However, a good quality food that is packed with Omega 6 and Omega 3 can bring the life and shine back into your precious pup’s coat. Healthy oils can truly bring that shine back and turn your pup into that show stopper they were born to be.
Our Top Pick
While we adore all the delicious foods on our list and believe they will all make your Yorkie a super happy pup, we’ve opted for Blue Buffalo as our favorite pick. It combines great quality with awesome value and is a great option for you and your furry friend. This delicious food is amazing for tiny pooches and will give them all the nutrients they need to ensure that they are experiencing optimal health. Packed with real chicken this great brand boasts delicious flavour and high protein to help your pooch maintain lean and healthy muscle mass. It is also grain-free and only contains quality ingredients and minerals. This product prides itself on not including any by-products like wheat, corn, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This is holistic health at its finest and will keep your darling pup happy and healthy.