Curious about the best dog food for Yorkies? The key to answering that pivotal question is tailoring your choice to your dog’s AGE and LIFE STAGE.
Here’s why: Whether you have a Yorkie puppy, adult, or senior, each stage demands distinct nutritional considerations for their sustained well-being.
For instance, Adult-oriented dog food might lack the requisite calcium levels for a growing Yorkie pup or could pack excessive protein and calories for a less active senior dog.
Furthermore, Specific nutrient requirements vary. Take leucine, an essential amino acid—a Yorkie pup thrives on 1.29%, whereas an adult needs merely 0.68%. Contrastingly, Senior Yorkies benefit from higher protein content and reduced calorie intake per serving.
The Bottom Line: Given the absence of standardized nutrient guidelines tailored to specific breeds like Yorkies, ensuring your pet’s enduring vitality boils down to selecting the best dog food for their age-specific nutrient needs.
3 Life Stages of a Yorkie
The age ranges in the following table were collated from various sources and serve as a handy guide to assist you in selecting the ideal food for your Yorkshire terrier.
| Life Stage | Age |
| Puppy | Under 9-12 months |
| Adult | Over 9-12 months |
| Senior | 11+ years |
Best Dog Food for Yorkies
Canidae
Canidae
Elevate your Yorkie’s diet with Canidae Multi-Protein.
Packed with quality chicken, turkey, and lamb meals, it offers balanced Nutrition (27% protein, 16% fat, 49% carbs) for all life stages.
With three meat “concentrates” and grain inclusivity, it’s the ultimate choice for adult Yorkies and puppies.
Choose Canidae for top-notch quality and versatility!
Pros
Quality Protein Sources
Balanced Nutrition
Grain-Inclusive: Suitable for all life stages.
Multiple Meat Concentrates
Suitable for both adult Yorkies and puppies.
Cons
Not ideal for grain-free diets.
It may not suit low-carb diets.
Canidae Multi-Protein stands out as the top choice for Yorkies in our review, earning a stellar five-star rating.
It’s widely favored and meticulously balanced in nutrients for adult Yorkies and puppies alike—an absolute no-brainer choice. We highly endorse it.
Curious for more insights? Dive into our comprehensive review of the complete Canidae Dog Food range here.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, turkey meal, lamb meal, brown rice, white rice
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 27%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Here’s what one satisfied buyer had to say:
“My dog scarfs this down, so no complaints. Her tummy is regular, and I could quickly get her off the half-and-half-wet-dry situation the rescue shelter had her in. Honestly, she’s just glad to have food, but for me, it was a priority to buy this brand due to the minimally processed ingredients and whole food-based formula.
The Farmer’s Dog
The Farmer’s Dog
Upgrade your Yorkie’s diet with The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe!
This top-rated formula offers balanced Nutrition and is grain-free, perfect for sensitive pups.
Crafted by a veterinary nutritionist, it’s tailored for all life stages.
While it’s a bit pricier, the quality speaks for itself. Give your furry friend the best today!
Pros
High-Quality Ingredients.
Balanced Nutrition meets AAFCO standards.
Ideal for Yorkies with grain sensitivities.
Crafted by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Suitable for Yorkie puppies and adults.
Cons
Premium quality comes with a higher cost.
The Farmer’s Dog Pork Recipe is the best choice for Yorkies in our review, boasting a perfect five-star rating.
If you’ve ever longed to serve your Yorkie a fresh, home-cooked meal without the hassle, The Farmer’s Dog offers the perfect solution. It is packed with top-tier, human-grade ingredients and presents a fully balanced recipe suitable for puppies and adults. Despite the higher price point, its quality and nutritional value make it a top choice for discerning pet owners.
Curious for more insights? Delve into our comprehensive review of The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here.
- Main Ingredients: USDA pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower
- Type: Grain-free, fresh
- Protein Percentage: 36%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Here’s what one satisfied buyer had to say:
“Maggie loves the food and acts like a puppy! She had a lot of GI issues…which have greatly improved. She looks forward to the food and is excited whenever she sees the box! I want to express my gratitude to you. The change in Maggie is unbelievable and makes my family, myself, and her so happy.”
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed
Nourish your Yorkie with Wellness Complete Health Small Breed.
Packed with quality ingredients like turkey, chicken meal, and salmon meal, it offers balanced Nutrition (31% protein, 17% fat, 44% carbs).
It’s fortified with fiber, probiotics, and antioxidants to support energy, muscle, and digestion.
While not ideal for grain-sensitive dogs and limited protein options, Wellness Complete Health ensures your Yorkie’s well-being.
Choose Wellness for a thriving companion!
Pros
High-Quality Ingredients
Balanced Nutrition
Energy and Muscle Support.
Digestive and Immune Health
Cons
Not for grain-sensitive Yorkies.
Some prefer more protein options.
Small Breed Adult ranks among the top choices in our Wellness Complete Health product line review, boasting a perfect five-star rating.
Curious for more insights? Explore our comprehensive review of the Wellness Complete Health Dog Food (Dry) range here.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned turkey, chicken meal, salmon meal, oatmeal, ground brown rice
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 31%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Yorkies
Here’s what one satisfied buyer had to say:
“I have a Rat Terrier/Chihuahua mix that is a picky eater (like many little breeds are). After reading many reviews and seeing a solid ingredient list, I recently switched to the Wellness brand. The kibble is tiny and easy for her to eat, which is a plus. Once she starts eating, she eats the entire bowl. Overall, I am pleased with my purchase and glad to have found wholesome food my dog enjoys eating.”
Merrick’ Lil Plates Small Breed Dog Food
Merrick’ Lil Plates Small Breed Dog Food
Meet Merrick’ Lil Plates Small Breed Dog Food—ideal for your Yorkie.
With fresh beef and balanced Nutrition (44% protein, 17% fat, 31% estimated carbs), it’s grain-free and free from artificial additives.
Elevate your pup’s dining experience today!
Pros
Fresh beef.
Balanced Nutrition.
Fortified with vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients.
No grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy.
No Artificial Additives.
Cons
Some may prefer more protein options.
Not all dogs may prefer wet food.
Merrick’ Lil Plates Beef Recipe stands out among the 8 wet recipes in our review of the Merrick product line, earning a stellar five-star rating.
I have confidently recommended it.
Curious for more insights? Dive into our comprehensive review of the entire Merrick Lil’ Plates Grain Free Dog Food (Cups) range here.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, beef broth, venison broth, beef liver, dried egg whites
- Texture: Wet
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 44%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Adult Yorkies
Here’s what one satisfied buyer had to say: “We have a tiny senior dog with a light appetite. Portion size is perfect for her. I mix one of these bowls with a handful of dry kibble. She happily eats her food.”
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior
Meet Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior—perfect for your aging Yorkie.
With top-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition (26% protein, 14% fat, 52% estimated carbs), it supports your senior pup’s health.
While not grain-sensitive-friendly and with limited protein variety, it’s affordable and highly praised by customers.
Give your senior Yorkie the best with Blue Buffalo Life Protection!
Pros
Quality Ingredients
Balanced Nutrition
Low in calories and fat, it is suitable for senior Yorkies.
Reasonably Priced
Highly Recommended.
Cons
It’s not ideal for grain-sensitive dogs.
Limited Protein Variety.
This Small Breed Senior formula is one of 21 dry recipes featured in our Blue Buffalo product line review, boasting a perfect five-star rating.
Read our comprehensive review of the entire Blue Buffalo Dog Food range here.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 26%
- AAFCO Standards: Maintenance
- Best For: Senior Yorkies
Here’s what one satisfied buyer had to say: “My dog’s skin, coat, and overall health are top-notch! This is the best quality dog food at a reasonable price, always consistently great!”
Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food
Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food
Discover Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food—perfect for your Yorkie’s health.
With quality ingredients and balanced Nutrition, it’s highly recommended and affordable.
Treat your Yorkie right with Whole Earth Farms!
Pros
Primarily chicken meal.
Balanced Nutrition
includes zinc amino acid complex.
Affordable
Highly Recommended
Cons
Some may prefer more protein options.
Grain-Free Formula: Not suitable for all dogs.
Grain-Free Chicken and Turkey is among 4 dry recipes highlighted in our review of the Whole Earth Farms line, earning a perfect five-star rating.
Read our comprehensive review of the Whole Earth Farms Dog Food (Dry) range here.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, potatoes, canola meal, peas, chicken fat
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 30%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Reviewer Comment:
“My dog is allergic to rice, brewer yeast, and fish, and unfortunately, prescription science diet is like $80 for a small bag that only lasts him a week and a half. I was so glad to have found Whole Earth Farms, which is reasonably priced and seems like a great quality dog food. I have it on auto-ship, and my dog seems to love it, too!”
Health Extension
Health Extension
Discover Health Extension Little Bites: tailored for Yorkies’ vitality.
It ensures optimal Nutrition and is packed with premium ingredients like organic chicken and lamb.
With balanced macros and no artificial additives, it’s a natural choice.
Boosting immunity with antioxidants keeps your Yorkie healthy.
Note: small bites and grain inclusion may not suit all dogs.
Treat your Yorkie right with Health Extension Little Bites!
Pros
Quality Ingredients.
Balanced Nutrition.
Easy on Yorkies’ digestion.
Free from artificial additives.
Antioxidant Support.
Cons
Small Bite Size: This may not suit all dogs.
Not for grain-sensitive dogs.
Little Bites stands out among 6 dry recipes in our Health Extension review, earning a perfect star rating.
Read our comprehensive Health Extension Dog Food (Dry) range review here.
- Main Ingredients: Organic deboned chicken, chicken meal, ground brown rice, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), lamb meal
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 27%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Reviewer Comment: “We love all of Health Extension Little Bites. The tiny bites are perfect for our Yorkie rescues with no teeth and those without teeth. And we love all the healthy ingredients in it…this is our favorite dog food!”
Orijen Regional Red
Orijen Regional Red
Try Orijen Regional Red: premium protein, biologically appropriate, and highly recommended.
Suitable for all life stages.
Note: higher price, limited flavors.
Pros
Premium protein
High protein.
Biologically appropriate.
Suitable for all stages: Meets AAFCO.
Highly recommended: Champion Petfoods.
Cons
Higher Price
Limited flavors.
Among 9 dry recipes in our Orijen review, Regional Red shines with a perfect star rating.
Orijen Regional Red sources its animal protein from beef, wild boar, lamb, and pork. Dry matter analysis reveals 43% protein, 20% fat, and 28% estimated carbs, delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of 47%.
Champion Petfoods, the maker of Orijen, champions a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet, making this food a top choice for puppies and adults. It is highly recommended.
Please read our full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) review here.
- Main Ingredients: Beef, wild boar, lamb, pork, beef liver
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-free
- Protein Percentage: 43%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Reviewer Comment: “We love this food! Since we started feeding this, we have noticed that our dog needs to eat less, has more energy, and sheds less. We are halfway through our second 13lbs bag, and our dog still stands over his bowl, licking his lips while we scoop his favorite food ever!”
American Journey Active Life Formula
American Journey Active Life Formula
American Journey Active Life Formula provides budget-friendly, high-quality Nutrition for Yorkies.
It suits all ages with 28% protein, 17% fat, and 48% estimated carbs.
Free from artificial additives, it’s fortified with probiotics, Omega 3 & 6, and vitamins for optimal health and is highly recommended for its value and natural protein sources.
Pros
Quality Ingredients
Balanced Nutrition
Budget-Friendly
It is ideal for Yorkie puppies and adults.
Highly Recommended
Cons
Limited Protein Variety
It may not be suitable for grain-sensitive dogs.
Chicken and Brown Rice are among the 16 dry recipes scrutinized in our American Journey product line assessment.
Featuring fresh deboned chicken and chicken meal, this formula offers 28% protein, 17% fat, and 48% estimated carbs.
A quality, budget-friendly kibble, inclusive of grains, perfect for Yorkies of all ages. Exceptional Nutrition at a great price. It is highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, rice bran, peas
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 28%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Best For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Sample buyer review:
“I have a picky Siberian Husky, and she loves this food. It is one of a handful that does not use preservatives, artificial coloring, or artificial flavors. Uses real protein products and no corn, wheat, or soy. It also has probiotics and Omega 3 & 6. It is also fortified with vitamins but no filler products. And best of all, the price is very affordable.”
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food: premium Nutrition for your Yorkie.
Packed with high-quality protein, balanced fat-to-protein ratio, and no common allergens, it ensures optimal health.
Suitable for all life stages, it’s a trusted choice for happy, healthy dogs.
Pros
High protein content from fresh chicken.
Balanced fat-to-protein ratio.
Excludes common allergens.
Suitable for all life stages.
Offers excellent value.
Cons
Not suitable for specific dietary restrictions.
Price higher.
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food earns top ratings for its exceptional quality, particularly for Yorkies. With fresh chicken and chicken meal as primary protein sources, it boasts 36% protein content and a favorable fat-to-protein ratio. Free from common allergens, it ensures a balanced, nutrient-rich diet suitable for all life stages. This versatile formula is highly recommended for its exceptional value.
For further insights into the entire range of Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry), delve into our comprehensive review here.
- Key Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley
- Consistency: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 36%
- AAFCO Standards: All Life Stages
- Ideal For: Yorkie puppies and adults
Here’s a snippet from a satisfied buyer:
“Our puppy is very active and had a rough life before we got him. He was dropping weight and needed something different. We tried 5 different kinds, and this was the only one he gobbled down. It has small kibble and smells good, unlike other food. Higher protein and fat content to maintain his weight.”
Hills Science Diet Small Paws Puppy
Hills Science Diet Small Paws Puppy
Hills Science Diet Small Paws Puppy offers premium Nutrition at an affordable price.
Protein-rich chicken meal and omega-rich fish support muscle, coat, and joint health.
Plus, its budget-friendly formula ensures quality without compromise.
While grain-inclusive, it may not suit all pups.
Still, most love its delicious taste.
Invest in your puppy’s well-being with Hills Science Diet Small Paws Puppy—it’s the smart choice for savvy pet owners.
Pros
Nutrient-Rich.
Balanced Nutrition.
Enhances coat and joint health.
Forgiving performance
Cons
Not for grain-sensitive pups.
Ingredient Sensitivity.
Some pups may not like the flavor.
Among the 6 dry recipes we’ve scrutinized in the Hills Science Diet line, Small Paws stands out. With chicken meal as its primary protein source, it boasts 27% protein, 17% fat, and 48% estimated carbs, yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
This grain-inclusive puppy formula, enriched with omega-rich fish, promotes a healthy coat and joints while being budget-friendly. It is highly recommended for Yorkie puppies.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, whole grain wheat, whole grain sorghum, chicken fat, whole grain corn
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 27%
- AAFCO Standards: Growth
- Best For Yorkie puppies
One satisfied buyer shared:
“My dog has a sensitive tummy and is very picky. This is one of the only foods that works for her. Royal Canin’s small puppy worked amazingly, but it could have been more affordable. This is a kibble I would recommend for sensitive, picky eaters and for families who enjoy Royal Canin but are looking for something more budget-friendly.”
Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Food
Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Food
Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Food delivers tailored Nutrition for your beloved Yorkie pup.
Its palatable formula and specialized kibble size ensure that taste and health are prioritized.
Despite containing chicken by-product meal, its rave reviews speak to its effectiveness.
Give your Yorkie the best with Royal Canin.
Pros
Highly palatable, even for picky eaters
Tailored kibble size for small Yorkie mouths
Formulated to meet specific nutritional needs of Yorkie puppies
Cons
Contains chicken by-product meal
Vet concerns about ingredient quality
Yorkshire Terrier Puppy shines among the 11 dry recipes in the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition line. With chicken by-product meal as its top protein source, it offers 30% protein, 20% fat, and 42% estimated carbs, creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Its specialized kibble suits smaller muzzles and bites, is tailored for purebred Yorkie puppies, and is highly recommended.
- Main Ingredients: Chicken by-product meal, brewer rice, chicken fat, corn, dried plain beet pulp
- Texture: Dry
- Type: Grain-inclusive
- Protein Percentage: 30%
- AAFCO Standards: Growth
- Best For Yorkie puppies
One satisfied buyer shared: “My 4.5-month-old Yorkie puppy was picky with her food, rejecting four brands and even homemade meals. Despite my vet’s reservations about Royal Canin, I tried it, and she loved it! Now, I can rely on it without worrying about ingredients. Should have switched sooner!”
How To Choose The Best Dog Food for Yorkies?
When choosing the ideal dog food for Yorkies, several factors merit attention, including kibble size, protein and fat levels, nutritional requirements, and ingredient quality.
1. Small Kibble Size:
Yorkies possess petite muzzles, necessitating food tailored to their size. Small kibble sizes accommodate their mouths, ensuring comfortable consumption and preventing feeding difficulties.
2. High Protein and Fat Content:
Optimal Yorkie food contains elevated levels of protein and fat to sustain their active lifestyles and preserve muscle mass. Look for formulations featuring accurate meat sources to meet these needs effectively.
3. Nutritional Requirements:
Yorkies thrive on protein-rich diets supplemented with healthy fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Puppy food should support growth without excessive calories, while senior formulas address aging-related needs like joint support.
4. Ingredients to Avoid:
Steer clear of harmful additives like BHA, meat meal from dubious sources, white flour, artificial colors, corn syrup, and preservatives such as melamine. These ingredients can compromise your Yorkie’s health and well-being.
Choosing the best dog food for Yorkies entails carefully considering these factors to ensure optimal Nutrition and overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are specialized diets necessary for Yorkies?
Official pet food industry or FDA nutrient standards tailored to Yorkshire Terriers are nonexistent. However, since each life stage of a Yorkie—puppy, adult, and senior—demands unique nutritional needs, it’s crucial to opt for a food formulated for your dog’s specific stage.
What’s the optimal diet for a Yorkie puppy?
As small breed dogs, Yorkies require a diet with the correct blend of nutrients, including calcium, tailored for puppies. Until 9 to 12 months old, Yorkies should consume dog food meeting AAFCO nutrient standards and labeled “for Growth” or “for All life stages.”
In addition to the Royal Canin Yorkie Puppy Food mentioned earlier, you can explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive list of Best Small Breed Puppy Foods for more options.
How much food does a Yorkie puppy require?
The quantity of food for a Yorkie puppy varies based on factors such as age, weight, and activity level. It’s crucial to adhere to the feeding instructions the selected dog food brand provides and modify servings as needed.
What’s the ideal dog food for a senior Yorkie?
As noted by VCA Hospitals, small-breed dogs like Yorkies typically have longer lifespans than larger breeds. Yorkies aren’t classified as “senior” until they reach 11 years old. You might find The Doggo Bio’s Best Senior Dog Foods page helpful if your Yorkie falls into this category.
Is dry kibble suitable for Yorkies?
Yes, Dry kibble can be an excellent choice for Yorkies, given it’s a high-quality dog food tailored to the requirements of small breeds. Brands like Wellness Complete Health Small Breed provide appropriate dry options. You can explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive list of Best Dry Dog Foods for more options.
Can I offer wet food to my Yorkie?
Yes, Yorkies can consume wet food. Opting for premium wet food choices, such as those offered by Wellness Complete Health, can introduce variety and additional moisture to their diet. You can explore The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive Best Wet Dog Foods list for more options.
Conclusion
When choosing your Yorkie’s food, prioritize their nutritional needs. Opt for Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food, renowned for its tailored formula that supports your pup’s coat and body structure, making it the best dog food for Yorkies.
Consider Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Dog Food for a delicious alternative. This option provides joint health support and a delightful flavor for your small-breed adult dog, making it another excellent choice for the best dog food for Yorkies.