Yorkshire Terriers — better known as Yorkies — are tiny dogs with big personalities and very specific dietary needs. Because of their small size, fast metabolism, and sometimes sensitive stomachs, what they eat matters a lot for their energy, immune system, skin and coat health, and overall well‑being. Feeding a Yorkie the wrong food, overfeeding, or giving inappropriate human foods can lead to health problems like obesity, digestive upset, skin issues, and even more serious conditions.
This complete Yorkie diet guide covers:
✔ Core nutritional needs for Yorkies
✔ How much and how often they should eat
✔ Best foods (commercial and home‑cooked)
✔ Foods to avoid
✔ Feeding at different life stages (puppy, adult, senior)
✔ Treats, portion control, and common mistakes
✔ Expert tips and sample meal plans
Let’s begin by understanding what makes Yorkies special nutritionally.
1. Yorkie Nutritional Basics: What Makes Their Diet Unique
Yorkies are a toy breed, usually weighing about 4–7 pounds (1.8–3.2 kg). Their small size means:
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Tiny stomach capacity
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Rapid metabolism — they burn calories fast
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Delicate digestive systems
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Increased risk of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) if underfed
Because of this, Yorkies require nutrient‑dense foods in small portions. They thrive on lean proteins, healthy fats (especially omegas for skin and coat health), and carefully selected carbohydrates that are easily digestible. [turn0search1]
Veterinarians emphasize that a Yorkshire Terrier’s diet should support:
✔ Muscle maintenance
✔ Healthy skin and silky coat
✔ Stable blood sugar
✔ Digestive health
✔ Ideal body weight
Proper nutrition also plays a key role in preventing allergies, inflammation, and skin conditions that are common in toy breeds. [turn0search0]
2. How Much Should a Yorkie Eat?
Because Yorkies eat very small meals relative to their body size, it’s easy to underestimate how much food they need — or to overestimate and cause weight gain.
Daily Food Amounts
According to feeding guides for Yorkshire Terriers:
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Adult Yorkies: Generally around 1/3–1/2 cup of dry food per day, split into 2–3 small meals. Larger adult Yorkies near 7–8 lbs (3.2–3.6 kg) may eat up to 2/3 cup per day, depending on activity level. [turn0search1]
Yorkies eat small servings often but have high energy needs for their size — so feeding frequent, measured meals helps maintain stable blood sugar and prevents hunger‑induced irritability or hypoglycemia. [turn0search1]
Feeding Frequency
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Puppies (up to 6–12 months): 3–4 times per day
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Adults (1–7 years): 2–3 times per day
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Seniors (7+ years): 2 times per day (adjust based on activity & weight)
Smaller, frequent meals avoid overwhelming the tiny Yorkie digestive system and help keep energy steady throughout the day. [turn0search1]
3. Choosing the Right Food: Commercial Options for Yorkies
There are many well‑formulated commercial diets designed specifically for small and toy breeds like Yorkies. These diets are developed to provide the right balance of nutrients in small kibble sizes that are easier for Yorkies to chew and digest. [turn0search2]
Small‑Breed Outdoor Food
Look for kibble labeled for small breeds, which usually has:
✔ Small kibble size
✔ Higher calorie density
✔ Rich proteins
✔ Added omegas for skin & coat health
Professional recommendations also highlight foods with highly digestible ingredients to support intestinal health and help maintain ideal body condition in adult Yorkies. [turn0search7]
Breed‑Specific Formulas
Premium foods like Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy and Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult are tailored to this breed’s unique needs, including:
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Nutrients to support coat quality
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Balanced proteins and fats
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Easy‑to‑eat kibble shapes for tiny jaws
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Digestive support for sensitive systems [turn0search7] [turn0search6]
These formulations can be especially helpful if you’re unsure about homemade diets or raw feeding — but consult a veterinarian to confirm suitability for your dog’s age and health status.
4. Homemade and Natural Foods: Safe Options
Many owners prefer preparing home‑cooked meals, especially if their Yorkie has food sensitivities. A well‑balanced home‑cooked diet can be nutritious if planned carefully.
Good Homemade Ingredients
Here are safe and healthy foods that can be part of a Yorkie’s diet:
Lean Proteins
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Chicken breast (cooked, deboned)
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Turkey
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Lean beef
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Fish (like salmon or whitefish; boneless)
Lean proteins support muscle development and energy. [turn0search1]
Vegetables
Vegetables provide fiber, nutrients, and digestive support when cooked or steamed:
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Carrots
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Green beans
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Zucchini
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Peas
These should be served plain, without added salt or seasonings. [turn0search1]
Fruits (in moderation)
Many fruits are safe and nutritious as occasional treats:
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Apple (no seeds)
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Blueberries
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Banana
Just keep portions small because of natural sugars. [turn0search1]
Tip: Always introduce new foods in small quantities to check for digestive tolerance.
Cooking Tips
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Remove all bones (especially from poultry or fish).
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Avoid added salt, garlic, onions, butter, or sauces.
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Cook foods thoroughly to avoid bacterial contamination.
A diet must be balanced not just in ingredients but also in nutrient ratios. Consulting a veterinarian or canine nutritionist is ideal before committing to long‑term homemade meals.
5. Foods Yorkies Should Avoid
One of the most important parts of feeding a Yorkie is knowing what not to feed them. Some human foods are harmless to us but can be dangerous or toxic to dogs — especially small breeds like Yorkies.
1. Chocolate
Contains theobromine, which dogs metabolize poorly. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, tremors, seizures, and can be life‑threatening. [turn0search9]
2. Grapes and Raisins
These can cause kidney failure, even in small dogs. Never feed grapes or raisins in any form. [turn0search5]
3. Onions and Garlic
Can damage red blood cells, leading to anemia — dangerous for Yorkies. [turn0search5]
4. Xylitol (Sugar Substitute)
Found in sugar‑free gums and some peanut butters — extremely toxic and can cause rapid hypoglycemia, seizures, and liver failure.
5. Alcohol and Caffeine
Both are toxic to dogs and can damage organs even in small amounts. [turn0search5]
6. Fatty and Fried Foods
Foods high in fat (like bacon, fried scraps, and rich sauces) can lead to pancreatitis and weight gain. [turn0search5]
7. Bones (Cooked)
Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking or internal injuries; raw bones also carry bacterial risks and are generally not recommended without vet advice.
8. Excessively Salty or Sugary Human Food
Table scraps with heavy seasoning, salt, or sugar can lead to digestive issues, obesity, and long‑term health problems. [turn0search1]
Avoid feeding any human food as a regular part of diet — even foods that seem harmless can add too many calories or upset digestion.
6. Balancing Macronutrients: Proteins, Fats, Carbs
A healthy Yorkie diet should be balanced. Here’s a breakdown of essential macronutrients:
Proteins
Proteins are critical for:
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Muscle maintenance
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Immune health
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Growth (especially for puppies)
Good sources include meat, poultry, fish, and certain legumes. A quality diet should list real meat as the first ingredient. [turn0search2]
Fats
Fats provide concentrated energy and essential fatty acids that help:
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Skin health
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Coat shine
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Joint mobility
Omega‑3 and omega‑6 fatty acids (e.g., from salmon oil or flaxseed) are especially beneficial for a Yorkie’s luxurious coat. [turn0search2]
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are optional but can provide energy and fiber. Choose easily digestible carbs like:
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Rice
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Sweet potatoes
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Oats
Avoid fillers like corn and soy, which can contribute little nutritional value. [turn0search1]
7. Special Diet Needs: Puppies, Seniors, and Allergies
Yorkies have distinct needs at different life stages and health conditions.
Puppies
Yorkie puppies grow quickly and have high metabolic needs. Many vets recommend breed‑specific puppy foods with increased protein and balanced nutrients. Feed them 3–4 times daily to maintain consistent energy levels. [turn0search1]
Adults
Once mature (usually 10–12 months), Yorkies can transition to adult formulas with balanced calories and nutrients supportive of maintenance and activity levels. Most adults eat 2–3 meals per day. [turn0search1]
Seniors
Older Yorkies may slow down and need fewer calories. Adjust portions to prevent weight gain, and consider supplements for joint health if advised by a vet.
Allergies or Sensitivities
Some Yorkies show sensitivities to certain proteins or grains. In such cases, vets may advise limited ingredient diets, hypoallergenic formulas, or grain‑free options tailored to their health.
8. Treats: Healthy Guidance and Portion Control
Treats are a part of training and bonding, but they must be controlled:
✔ Keep treats to <10% of daily calories. [turn0search22]
✔ Use small‑breed specific treats.
✔ Avoid sugary or highly processed snacks.
Healthy treat ideas include tiny bits of:
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Cooked chicken
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Plain carrots
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Small fruit pieces (e.g., apple slices, blueberries)
Always adjust the main meal portions when giving treats to avoid excess calories.
9. Sample Daily Feeding Plan for a Yorkie
Here’s an example routine for a healthy adult Yorkie:
Morning (7–8 am):
• 1/4 cup high‑quality small breed kibble
• Fresh water
Lunch (optional midday):
• A few small, healthy treats or soft healthy bites
Evening (5–6 pm):
• 1/4–1/3 cup of kibble or a mix of kibble + boiled lean chicken and steamed veggies
Hydration:
Always keep fresh water available — Yorkies’ tiny bodies dehydrate quickly.
Adjust portions based on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. If unsure, consult a vet for personalized guidance.
10. Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Many owners make unintentional errors when feeding their Yorkies:
❌ Feeding large meals once per day (can cause hypoglycemia or stomach issues)
❌ Giving table scraps frequently
❌ Not measuring food (leading to over‑ or under‑feeding)
❌ Using cheap foods with fillers and by‑products
❌ Ignoring breed‑specific needs for protein and healthy fats
Avoiding these pitfalls helps ensure your Yorkie lives a long, healthy, energetic life.
11. Signs of a Balanced vs. Unbalanced Diet
Signs your Yorkie’s diet is working well:
✔ Healthy, shiny coat
✔ Consistent energy levels
✔ Firm, regular stools
✔ Stable body weight
Signs of dietary issues:
⚠ Dull or dry coat
⚠ Excessive scratching or skin irritation
⚠ Vomiting or diarrhea
⚠ Weight loss or gain
⚠ Flatulence or bloating
If you notice any of these, review the diet and consult your vet for adjustments.
12. Veterinary and Nutritional Advice
Your veterinarian is your best resource for a tailored diet plan, especially if your dog has health concerns like allergies, digestive sensitivities, dental issues, or joint problems. Regular check‑ups help ensure the diet supports overall health and catches issues early.
13. Final Thoughts: Feed for Health, Not Just Taste
Feeding a Yorkie is about more than satisfying hunger — it’s about nurturing energy, longevity, and quality of life. With the right diet:
✔ Your Yorkie will have a strong immune system
✔ A brilliant, silky coat
✔ Stable energy levels
✔ Healthy digestion and weight management
Understanding what Yorkies should and shouldn’t eat helps owners make informed decisions that support long‑term well‑being.
Sources & Further Reading
Here are the main resources used in this guide:
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Yorkie nutrition features and recommended foods — YorkieGuide.com Yorkie Guide
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Feeding amounts, dangers of hypoglycemia, and ingredient advice — YorkieInfoCenter.com Yorkie Info Center
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Dietary tips for small breeds including proteins and omegas — YorkiesAndTerriers.com Yorkies and Terriers
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Breed‑specific nutritional goals including healthy coat support — Royal Canin Royal Canin
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Foods to avoid (chocolate, grapes, onions, etc.) — YorkieGuide.com Yorkie Guide
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Feeding schedule, treats in moderation, and routine — JiYu Yorkshire Terrier Digest 积玉工作室
