9 Best Dog Foods for Yorkies Compared & Reviewed

 

Top Rated Dog Food for Yorkies List in 2023 + Buying Guide

 

If you want the best dog food for Yorkies, but you’re pressed for time, you’ve come to the right place. According to our extensive research, based on examining customer feedback, sales figures, and expert opinions, the ROYAL CANIN Breed Health Nutrition is the number one choice you should bear in mind. This formula is made to help your furry friend not only get excellent nutrition but also reduce the risk of plaque build-up; the kibbles will help your dog clean his or her teeth and will eliminate tartar. Your dog’s long coat will also benefit from the complete nutrition in this formula and will receive the necessary nourishment to thrive. Even dogs who are picky when it comes to food will find the taste and aroma of this dog food appealing to their senses. In case the ROYAL CANIN alternative is no longer available, you can try the Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed, as it has almost the same amount of benefits.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

9 Best Dog Foods for Yorkies (Reviews) in 2023

 

 

With so many dog food products available for sale, it may be tough for you to decide. We are here to lend a helping hand to all dog lovers, by offering them a list of products that have so far been tried and tested by other dog parents who love this breed.

 

 

1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food

 

If you want to purchase good food for Yorkies, the ROYAL CANIN Breed Health Nutrition should be the first name to come to mind. Its formula and the way it is delivered makes all the difference. The kibbles are crunchy and tasty, and they help eliminate plaque and tartar, two dental conditions that can influence your Yorkie’s life for the worse.

Is your little friend a picky eater? Maybe you haven’t fed him or her this formula yet. The intense flavors and aromas will tickle even the most pretentious dog’s appetite, so you can rest assured that your beloved pet gets the complete nutrition he or she needs.

Another benefit to remember when using this formula is its ability to nourish and make your pet’s coat shine and grow strong. The formula contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids for a luscious coat. Mature dogs will benefit from the nutrients in this food in the long run.

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2. Hill’s Science Plan Canine Adult Chicken Medium Breed Dry Mix

 

The Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed is a top rated dog food for Yorkies that should be on your list. Small dogs are known to have different dietary requirements compared to other breeds, so they need a type of nutrition that will help them develop well. One of the things you can rest assured when purchasing this food is that it contains no preservatives and other chemicals.

The food is rich in antioxidants, and it contains vitamins, such as C and E, that enhance a dog’s chances to live longer. Yorkies are known to have a long life expectancy compared to other breeds, and this formula can help them stay by your side for even more years.

This formula is praised by experts, too. It was chosen by veterinarians as the number one food they would give their pets, based on a survey, which tells you a lot about the overall quality of this brand and the food they make.

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3. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Dry Dog Food

 

A puppy has different dietary needs when compared to an adult or mature dog. That is why it is highly indicated to buy food for puppies that is separate from the food you supply for the other dogs in the household. The Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Puppy will provide your little one with all the nutrition he or she needs to grow strong and happy.

The kibbles help to remove plaque and prevent tartar, ensuring that your puppy will not have to deal with dental problems from a young age. Yorkies are known for their beautiful long coat, but properly caring for it can be a challenge.

That is why it is essential to have the means to promote a healthy coat through nutrition, too. This formula is ideal, as it is rich in fatty acids, which are responsible for an excellent looking coat, which shines with health.

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4. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Small Breed Healthy Weight Dog Food

 

Your small dog breed can benefit significantly from this balanced formula. The nutrition in this formula contains all the essentials so that your Yorkie can enjoy excellent health all the time. Dry food should be placed in dog food containers so that it does not lose flavor, but, otherwise, you can count on this brand to offer your doggie everything he or she needs.

Even small dogs can gain too much weight if you don’t monitor their weight correctly. That is why it is a good idea to feed them smaller kibbles in slow-feed bowls. The Wellness Complete Health Natural comes in this shape, and that is why you can rest assured that your dog will not overeat.

This food includes nothing but top quality, natural ingredients and that means that you will manage to promote your dog’s health in the long run. You will not find preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors in this premium formula.

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5. Taste of The Wild Grain Free High Protein Dry Dog Food

 

Small dogs can have trouble trying to digest the food you give them, which is why it may be a good idea to provide them with dog probiotics. If you don’t want to spend extra, a good idea would be to opt for food that already contains these much-needed ingredients. The Taste of the Wild Appalachian Valley is rich in them, and it is indicated for dogs with a sensitive stomach.

The formula is made with venison protein, which is very easy to digest. Furthermore, it contains probiotics and fiber that promotes healthy digestion. The presence of many amino-acids in this dog food ensures optimal health, as well.

You will love the small kibble size, and so will your doggie. You don’t have to worry that he or she will overeat, and the kibbles will also make an excellent choice to clean your dog’s teeth, to prevent dental problems at a later date.

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6. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food 

 

The quality of ingredients matters in dog food, just as it matters in human food. This formula is made with deboned chicken, ensuring a top-notch source of protein for your dog. However, it is well known that dogs need more than just protein to thrive. That is why you will also find whole grains, veggies, and fruits in this food.

Dog parents know the importance of a good dog harness that will not chafe and hurt their little friend, as they see the importance of excellent nutrition. It is good to know that this food does not contain any meat by-products which don’t have high nutritional value.

You will not find other undesirable ingredients, such as wheat, corn, or soy in this formula. It is free of flavors, colors, and preservatives, and, all in all, it is the type of recipe you will want to feed your dog.

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7. Natural Balance Original Ultra Chicken

 

One thing you should know about the food you should get for your Yorkie is that it can be very different from dog food for pitbulls, for instance. Each breed has its necessities, and that is why opting for the Natural Balance Original Ultra will be an excellent choice. Created by experts in nutrition, it contains an optimal amount of nutrients.

Your dog will receive everything needed for healthy development. The premium ingredients in this food will promote an excellent immune system, and also provide the necessary support for healthy bones, teeth, heart, and eyes.

With 23% protein content, it ensures that your dog gets a good source of fuel for keeping active and healthy. The presence of omega 6 fatty acids helps with maintaining a coat that looks healthy and shiny. There are plenty of vitamins and minerals included, too, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, and phosphorus.

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8. Wellness Core Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food

 

When you purchase food for your Yorkie, you want to ensure proper balanced nutrition. The Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free makes it easy for you, as it contains no grains whatsoever, and it is rich in protein. Made with high-quality protein sources, such as turkey and chicken meat, it also provides your pet with the necessary fuel for keeping active.

If you pick this formula, there will be no need for extra probiotics powders for dogs to add to your dog’s food. The food is fortified with extra ingredients, including probiotics, whose primary role is to promote healthy digestion in your dog.

Your dog will get everything needed for optimal nutrition in this formula. There are extra benefits to consider, as well. For instance, there is even added chondroitin and glucosamine for great bone and joint health in mature dogs.

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9. Eukanuba Breed Specific Adult Yorkshire Terrier Dog Food

 

It is essential to feed your dog food that is specific to his or her breed, age stage, and weight. With so many things to bear in mind, it might feel a bit of a challenge to find the right senior dog food, for instance. The EUKANUBA Breed Specific will solve some of these issues, by offering you everything you must feed your Yorkshire Terrier.

One of the first things that must be said is that the dog food reviewed here comes with specific ingredients and kibble consistency that helps fighting tartar. The premium source of protein in this formula comes from chicken, and the fiber addition helps with healthy digestion.

The way the food formula is thought enhances the absorption of nutrients, which means that your dog will not have to overeat just to get everything needed for optimal health. The food is enhanced with omega fatty acids for a healthy, good looking coat.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

You will need proper food to feed your Yorkie, if you intend to keep him or her in good health for years to come. From the first life stages to their senior years, Yorkies have particular dietary needs, and that is why you must be aware of what food you give them. Here are some important recommendations to bear in mind when choosing optimal nutrition for a Yorkshire.

Yorkies and their specific needs

First of all, if you want your Yorkie to enjoy his or her meal, and you don’t have to worry about overeating, pick a type of dog food that is delivered as small kibble. This will help dogs with small mouths pick up the food and enjoy it, while adequately chewing it. That is why you will notice that the best dry dog food for Yorkies is the one that comes in small kibble size.

Now, another thing that you will have to bear in mind is the fact that Yorkshire dogs have a lot of energy, which is why they need proper fuel. To sustain all this energy, you need to provide them with the right food.

The ideal food for Yorkies is the kind that contains a high content of protein, healthy fat, fiber, and carbohydrates. Due to their high energy levels, Yorkies are not in as much danger of becoming fat, as larger breeds are, so you don’t have to worry about this aspect too much.

Another thing to remember about Yorkies is that they tend to have bad teeth. That is why it is a good idea to look for foods that are said to be able to fight tartar and plaque. Even from the earliest life stages, you should feed your Yorkie this type of diet.

 

What kind of ingredients are the best for your Yorkie?

While we mentioned them briefly above, now it is time to go a little into more detail in regards to the composition of the perfect formula. The best dog food for a Yorkie puppy, for instance, should contain a high percentage of crude protein. Foods that have 20-30% protein are the most indicated.

Where should all this protein come from? The main idea is to focus on the quality and the source at the same time. Deboned chicken is among the choices to consider, as it is the highest quality type of chicken meat that can be fed to a dog. However, be aware that chicken can trigger some allergies in your dog, which is why it is essential that you pick the right food.

There are plenty of other excellent protein sources, so there is no need to narrow down your choices so much. Just like your doggie might need dog boots when going out in cold weather, he or she needs good protein sources.

Luckily, dog food manufacturers often make formulas that are breed specific, and they offer quite a few choices to Yorkie parents. Lamb, veal, venison, and fish are among common protein sources that are high quality and can provide your Yorkie with everything he or she needs for optimal nutrition.

Going further, let’s talk a little about carbohydrates, and how they can be included in your dog’s food. These are essential as an energy source, and they are also a rich source of fiber. Since Yorkies don’t enjoy the best digestion in the canine world, this is a plus.

The source of carbs must be, however, of top-notch quality. You should search for formulas that contain peas, flaxseeds, or sweet potatoes, as these are all excellent sources of carbohydrates.

Fat is okay, too, for a diet meant for Yorkies. Because they are so full of energy and they need to consume it by running around and playing, they need fuel to make that happen without becoming exhausted and ill. A good fat percentage in your Yorkies’ food doesn’t hurt.

 

Omega fatty acids and your dog’s beautiful coat

Yorkies have beautiful coats, long and shiny, but their hair can become brittle and damaged, especially if you groom your dog more than it is necessary. A good coat starts with good nutrition, and that is why you must pay attention to this particular aspect.

It is a good idea to pick a formula that contains plenty of omega 3 fatty acids. These fats are good for a lot of things, starting with a healthy brain, but they also play an excellent role in promoting the growth of a healthy, beautiful looking coat.

Other ingredients can also play an essential role in maintaining your dog’s beautiful coat. For instance, vitamin E and vitamin C are strong antioxidants that help your dog’s skin remain itch-free.

Yorkies may have allergies, and itchy skin is often a sign. That might require an essential change in diet, and that is when you should opt for a formula that contains all the good ingredients that can alleviate such allergies.

If your Yorkie has healthy skin, he or she will not experience an itchy feeling, and therefore the coat will not suffer either. Search for a brand that caters to Yorkie parents and offers breed specific products. Just like you pay extra care when purchasing other pet items, from dog poop scoopers to food bowls, you must pick the right food for your Yorkie.

 

All natural foods are the best for your Yorkie

Yorkies are notorious for their long lives, which is why they are often picked as pets. However, it is up to you to make this long life healthy and enjoyable. One idea would be to opt for an all-natural dog food formula that can keep your dog in optimal health in the long run.

You should opt for natural tick repellents, too, if you take your dog to the park quite frequently. Natural food has many benefits, starting with better nutrient absorption and ending with a beautiful, healthy coat.

Pick a formula that is entirely free of preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors, and also contains no grain, or soy. Only this way, you can guarantee your dog gets excellent nutrition.

 

 

Best Yorkie food brands

 

If you read Yorkie dog food reviews, you will notice that the brand Royal Canin is often mentioned. This company was founded in 1968 by a veterinarian, with the sole purpose of creating top quality food for pets, based on scientific principles and geared towards obtaining products that ensure optimal nutrition for cats and dogs.

Their breed specific products take out the guessing game when it comes to picking food for your dog. Your Yorkie will have all his or her needs covered, and you will not have to worry about your beloved pet not getting the care he or she deserves.

 

The first dog food this company ever created was obtained by Dr. Mark Morris Sr. together with his wife, Louise, in their kitchen. This was happening in the 1930s when Dr. Morris set the groundwork for the creation of the type of dog food that can address health issues.

The dedication of this company to the development of healthy food for canine has continued over decades, and, if you want to make sure that your pet gets all the nutrients he or she needs, you should pick this brand. They also make specific foods for small and toy breeds.

 

Another company with a long history of making high-quality dog food, Eukanuba caters to dogs through all their life stages, so they can get the best nutrition possible. Founded in 1969, by Paul Iams, Eukanuba has released numerous products over the years, conquering pet owners’ hearts with their dedication to pet care.

They ensure that each pet gets optimal nutrition, by picking only natural sources for the ingredients they use and ensuring that healthy protein is always part of their recipes. As far as Yorkies are concerned, the food made for them by Eukanuba also provides them with solid means for defending their teeth from tartar and plaque.

 

Nutrition is at the center of good health, and this is the principle that guides this company that specializes in making high-quality food for cats and dogs. Their dry food is produced in a facility in Indiana, and all their products go through an extensive program for quality check.

The company was founded in 1990 by a group of veterinarians, nutrition experts, and scientists, and that shows in the extraordinary care paid to the entire process of making food for pets. They are also involved in activities specialized in promoting an active lifestyle for dogs.

 

If you want excellent dog food for Yorkie terriers, you should search for this brand. As their name indicates, their dedication is oriented towards ensuring that dogs will eat a diet as close to that of their ancestors as possible. Even if they are domesticated, dogs still need a type of nutrition that resembles what their species used to eat while roaming the earth in wild packs.

They also make cat food that respects the same principles of an ancestral diet. They produce grain-free foods for your pet that abides by all the quality standards.

 

Pet health issues motivated the founders of this company to take a closer look at the nutrition people feed their closest friends. Bill and Jackie Bishop, the couple behind Blue Buffalo, lost their beloved canine friend, Airedale, to cancer, and that prompted them to take measures in regards to their future pet’s diet.

From there, the company grew, and today, the owners say that it is almost equally made of employees and pets, as everyone involved is a pet parent, too. Their Life Protection line of products made them one of the most popular brands in America.

 

Health problems of Yorkshire terriers that you should know about

 

Yorkies are predisposed to specific health problems, and, like any Yorkie parent, you should know about them so that you don’t end up struggling with a pet who suffers next to you. Some of the conditions mentioned below are hereditary, while others are acquired. Knowing them better will give you a fighting chance.

Skin allergies are common in Yorkies

Your Yorkie is quite sensitive when it comes to skin allergies. That is why it is so often recommended to offer your dog a proper diet that caters to this specific issue Yorkies must deal will. Corn, wheat, and soy should not be included in your dog’s food.

Also, Yorkies are allergic to wasp stings, so you should be careful about where you take your dog out for a walk. When suffering from skin allergies, a Yorkie will start scratching to the point that some of the coat may fall off.

 

Bad teeth

You will have to take care of your Yorkie’s teeth and gums at least once a week, because this breed is quite notorious for bad teeth. Feeding your dog a proper diet, with kibbles that can clean some of the plaque and tartar, or even prevent it, is highly recommended.

 

Pancreatitis can happen due to fat foods

While Yorkies do require to be fed a diet rich in fat that aligns with their energy needs, fat foods can cause pancreatitis. Changes in diet can work wonders, and that is why it is advised to get your Yorkie a type of food that is balanced and uses fats from excellent sources.

 

Kneecap problems

Among the hereditary issues Yorkies suffer from, you will find that kneecap dislocation can happen quite often. The tendons in the area are unstable, and that can cause your beloved Yorkie to suffer from such problems.

A diet that contains chondroitin and glucosamine might help, but, if kneecap dislocation occurs, physical therapy and even surgery might be required.

 

Hypoglycemia

As already mentioned, Yorkies have a lot of energy, and that may have an impact on their health, too. Even when fed a proper diet, rich in protein, they might still experience episodes of hypoglycemia. Rubbing some honey on your pet’s gums might help.