If you’re a Yorkie owner, you know how much your pet means to you. That’s why it’s important to be aware of what foods are safe for them to eat and what foods you should avoid giving them. Feeding your Yorkie the wrong type of food can lead to health problems and even be fatal in some cases.
It’s important to note that Yorkies have a small digestive system and are prone to developing allergies, so it’s crucial to be mindful of what you feed them. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. On the other hand, there are also plenty of safe and healthy foods that Yorkies can enjoy as part of a balanced diet.
In this article, we’ll discuss what Yorkies can and cannot eat, as well as provide some tips on how to incorporate these foods into their diet. We’ll also cite some reputable sources to ensure that the information we provide is accurate and reliable.
Foods Yorkies Can Eat
As a Yorkie owner, you want to ensure your pet is getting the right nutrients to keep them healthy and happy. Here are some foods Yorkies can eat:
Protein Sources
Protein is essential for Yorkies to maintain healthy muscles and tissues. Some safe protein sources for Yorkies include:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Beef
- Lamb
- Fish (cooked and deboned)
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are great sources of vitamins and minerals for Yorkies. However, they should be eaten in moderation as too much can cause digestive problems. Some safe fruits and vegetables for Yorkies include:
- Apples (without seeds)
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Pumpkin (cooked and pureed)
Grains and Carbohydrates
Grains and carbohydrates provide energy for Yorkies. However, they should be consumed in moderation as too much can lead to obesity. Some safe grains and carbohydrates for Yorkies include:
- Brown rice
- Oatmeal
- Sweet potatoes
- Whole wheat pasta
Remember to always check with your vet before introducing new foods to your Yorkie’s diet. Also, avoid feeding your Yorkie any foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, and onions.
Sources: The vet Advises
Foods Yorkies Should Avoid
Toxic Foods
There are certain foods that Yorkies should never eat as they can be toxic and even fatal. These include:
- Chocolate
- Onions and garlic
- Grapes and raisins
- Macadamia nuts
These foods can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and even kidney failure in severe cases. If you suspect your Yorkie has ingested any of these foods, seek veterinary attention immediately.
High-Fat Foods
Yorkies are prone to obesity, and feeding them high-fat foods can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Avoid feeding your Yorkie:
- Fried foods
- Fatty meats
- Cheese
- Butter and margarine
Instead, opt for lean proteins like chicken and fish, and feed them in moderation.
Sugary Foods
Yorkies have a small body size and are prone to dental problems. Feeding them sugary foods can lead to tooth decay and other health issues. Avoid feeding your Yorkie:
- Candy
- Cake and pastries
- Sugary drinks
- Ice cream
Instead, give them fresh fruits like apples and bananas as a treat.
Sources:
Feeding Tips
Portion Control
When it comes to feeding your Yorkie, portion control is key. Yorkies are small dogs and require smaller portions than larger breeds. As a general rule, you should feed your Yorkie about a quarter to a half cup of food per day, depending on their weight and activity level. It’s important to measure their food and avoid free feeding to prevent overeating and obesity.
Frequency of Meals
Yorkies have small stomachs and require frequent meals throughout the day. It’s recommended to feed your Yorkie at least two to three small meals per day, with a maximum of four meals for puppies. This will help maintain their energy levels and prevent hypoglycemia, a common health issue in small breeds.
Food Preparation
When preparing your Yorkie’s food, it’s important to choose high-quality ingredients and avoid feeding them table scraps and processed foods. Stick to lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, and incorporate vegetables and fruits into their diet in moderation. Avoid feeding them foods that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, onions, and grapes.
You can also consider feeding your Yorkie a combination of dry and wet food, as well as incorporating supplements, such as probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids, into their diet for optimal health.
Conclusion
Now that you know what Yorkies can and cannot eat, you can make sure your pet stays healthy and happy. Remember to always consult with your vet before making any major changes to your dog’s diet.
Stick to high-quality dog food and avoid giving your Yorkie any table scraps or human food that could be harmful. Fruits and vegetables can be a great addition to your Yorkie’s diet, but make sure to avoid any that are toxic to dogs.
Some safe options include apples, bananas, blueberries, carrots, green beans, and sweet potatoes. Always make sure to wash and cut any fruits and vegetables before giving them to your Yorkie.
Overall, a balanced diet and plenty of exercises are key to keeping your Yorkie healthy and happy. With a little bit of care and attention, you can ensure that your pet lives a long and healthy life by your side.
FAQ
What foods are toxic for your Yorkie?
There are, unfortunately, several foods that are toxic for Yorkie consumption. This means that they can seriously harm or even be fatal to your furry little friend. When it comes to these foods, they should be avoided at all costs. Be careful when you’re eating them around your dog as well because a hungry Yorkie won’t know the difference!
Examples of these foods include any kind of chocolate, onions, and garlic (or foods with onion or garlic salts or powders), grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, and avocado. While this isn’t a comprehensive list, it is a good start.
Remember to consult your vet when it comes to adding new food to your Yorkie’s diet, just in case!
What human foods are safe for Yorkie consumption?
Some human foods are safe for Yorkie consumption. Some foods, such as dairy products, fatty meats, peanut butter, and popcorn, are safe for consumption by your Yorkie.
As a rule of thumb, if it’s not a staple of your pup’s diet, it should be given as a treat or in moderation. Just because it’s safe for consumption doesn’t mean it won’t result in digestive issues, unnecessary weight gain, or other unforeseen consequences. After all, every dog is different!
What human foods are recommended for Yorkies?
Some human foods are recommended for Yorkies. This means that they can be fed to Yorkies daily and be a staple of your Yorkie’s diet.
Examples of foods in this category would be chicken, fish, and other lean proteins, white or brown rice, and vegetables like carrots, zucchini, cucumbers, and green beans. These foods are usually low in fat, high in vitamins, minerals, protein, or other nutrients, and non-toxic for dogs.
Chicken, fish, and veggies are especially great because they can provide nutrients that dry food and/or kibble might be missing.
Can Yorkies eat raw food?
Yorkies, like all dogs, are evolutionarily designed to eat meat. Not only this but since dogs can’t cook, they have the ability to eat raw meat. This can be great since raw foods tend to have more nutrients than their cooked counterparts. However, you need to make sure you’re giving raw meat to your dog safely and healthily.
Make sure you’re getting your meat from a clean and reputable source. Cut it up so your dog can chew and swallow it easily, and rotate the kind of meat you’re giving every week. Keep the amount of meat to around 2-4% of your dog’s body weight.
Can Yorkies eat eggs?
Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs. They can be a great alternative source of protein if you’re interested in feeding your dog a meat-free diet, or you just want to change things up! They are high in protein, fatty acids, and vitamins that can ensure your dog’s physical health is up to par!
Eggs are a bit fatty, so be careful with feeding them to your dog too much. You should consult your vet before making the switch to eggs, just in case your dog is more prone to significant weight gain or there is something else that can make eating eggs dangerous for your specific Yorkie. However, in most cases, eggs are a nutritious and tasty food for your pet.
Can Yorkies eat nuts?
Some nuts, such as macadamia nuts, are toxic for Yorkies and other dogs. However, there are plenty of nuts that can be fed to a dog. That being said, nuts are quite high in fat content, can lead to water retention issues, and can even pose a choking hazard.
While nuts mostly aren’t lethal to dogs, it’s better to skip them anyway. This way you can avoid giving them one they’re allergic to or is toxic, avoid the health problems or dangers associated with feeding nuts to your dog, and get a healthier and safer alternative treat or meal elsewhere.
Can Yorkies eat dairy products?
Yorkies, like most dogs, are not fantastic at digesting dairy. Some foods, like yogurt and cheese, can be small treats or pieces of meals to supplement your dog’s diet and add some flavor. However, avoid things like milk, ice cream, and other dairy products. These can give a Yorkie unnecessary gastrointestinal distress and other digestive issues.
My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks.
I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.
