Yorkshire Terriers require a balanced diet that meets their unique nutritional needs, and treats should complement their regular meals, not replace them.
A Yorkshire Terrier's ideal daily calorie intake is around 20-25 calories per pound of body weight, so a 7-pound Yorkie needs about 140-175 calories per day.
Choose treats that are low in fat and sugar, and high in protein to keep your Yorkie satisfied and support their overall health.
Yorkshire Terriers are prone to dental problems, so look for treats that promote good oral health, such as those made with dental-friendly ingredients like parsley or green beans.
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Yorkshire Terrier Nutrition
Yorkies need a high quality diet with the right amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein to stay healthy.
Choosing the right food can be a bit of a challenge, especially if your Yorkie is picky.
Health and Diet Concerns
Yorkshire Terriers are small dogs with big nutritional needs. They require a high-quality diet with the right amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Choosing the right food for your Yorkie can be a challenge, especially if they're picky eaters. Some Yorkies might prefer wet food over dry food.
A limited-ingredient diet can be beneficial for dogs with allergies, helping to soothe their skin. This type of diet can also be a good option for Yorkies who are sensitive to certain ingredients.
On the other hand, a low-carbohydrate diet can help reduce inflammation in Yorkies. This can be particularly helpful for dogs who are prone to joint issues or other inflammatory conditions.
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What Can't Eat?
Yorkshire Terriers have a tendency to overeat, so it's essential to know what foods are toxic to them. Onions and garlic belong to the Allium family and contain a compound that can cause anemia in dogs.
Raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and fish can contain bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning. Always cook your Yorkie's meat thoroughly before serving it to them.
Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of dark or semi-sweet chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in Yorkies.
Grapes and raisins are also toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. Keep them out of reach of your furry friend to avoid any harm.
Milk and dairy products can be difficult for Yorkies to digest, especially if they're lactose intolerant. Monitor your dog's reaction to dairy products and adjust their diet accordingly.
Choosing the Right Food
Dr. Gary Richter suggests a simple feeding tip to reduce the risk of your Yorkie getting sick when switching to a new dog food.
Yorkies require a high-quality diet with the right amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein.
Some Yorkies may prefer wet over dry food, while others may prefer the opposite.
A limited-ingredient diet can help dogs with allergies, and a low-carbohydrate diet can reduce inflammation.
You might find that your Yorkie prefers a "home cooked style" complete and balanced diet made with human-grade whole food ingredients.
Yorkie Food Portion
Switching to a new food can be a bit tricky, but Dr. Gary Richter has a simple tip to help reduce the risk of your Yorkie getting sick: introduce the new food gradually.
A landmark 2002 study found that dogs fed to maintain ideal body condition lived 1.8 years longer than others.
To determine the right serving size for your Yorkie, start with the amount printed on the package or use a dog food calculator, as every Yorkie is different.
Adjusting the amount over time can help you reach and maintain your Yorkie at ideal body weight.
The feeding amount on the package is a good starting point, but keep in mind that it may not be tailored to your Yorkie's specific needs.
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What Can Dogs Eat?
Yorkies can eat a variety of vegetables like broccoli and carrots as long as they're not overdoing it. These should be given in moderation as treats.
Their main source of nutrition should still come from high-quality dog food, which should have the right amounts of vitamins, minerals, and protein. Yorkies can be picky eaters, so it's essential to choose a food that suits their taste buds.
Some Yorkies prefer wet food, while others like dry food, so it's crucial to experiment and find what works best for your furry friend. If your Yorkie has allergies, a limited-ingredient diet can help alleviate skin issues.
Fruits and veggies are great options for Yorkies, especially for teacup Yorkies who are prone to obesity. They're low in calories and can be a healthy addition to their diet.
You can also consider giving them processed treats designed to be low in calories, like the Zesty Paws Mobility Bites or Yitto Paws Granola Bites. These are specifically formulated to be healthy and tasty, making them a great option for Yorkies.
It's essential to consider your Yorkie's current health status when choosing treats. For example, if they're experiencing joint problems, dog treats with glucosamine can be beneficial.
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Training and Wellness
Treats are a great way to positively reinforce a Yorkie's training, acting as a tool for communication between you and your pet.
Giving them a treat tells them "Good job buddy!" and lets them know they're doing something right.
It's suggested to use different treats for training to make it clear what's expected of them.
Yorkies are not active dogs, so it's essential to choose treats that won't overfeed them and lead to weight gain.
Packaged goods like Wellness Soft Bites Training Treats are a great option, made without artificial ingredients or preservatives and perfect for smaller dog breeds like Yorkies.
These treats are also suitable for adult dogs and can be broken up to avoid overfeeding.
Alternatively, "I and love and you" Training Treats are another great choice, made with all-natural ingredients and extra vitamins and glucosamine to support growth and health.
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Reinforcing a Yorkie's Training
Treats are a great way to positively reinforce a Yorkie's training, as they act as a tool for communication between you and your pet, telling them "Good job buddy!".
Using different treats for training can help your Yorkie know you mean business and that they'll only get the special treats if they follow your commands.
However, it's essential to choose treats wisely, considering your Yorkie's small stature and tiny stomach, to avoid overfeeding and weight gain.
Yorkies are not active dogs, so overfeeding them with treats can lead to weight issues, so it's crucial to be mindful of their treat intake.
Store-bought training treats are a convenient option, and many brands offer small dog breed treats that are perfect for Yorkies.
Some popular packaged goods for training treats include "I and love and you" Training Treats and Wellness Soft Bites Training Treats, both of which are made with natural ingredients and are suitable for Yorkies.
The "I and love and you" Training Treats are heart-shaped and made with all-natural ingredients, but do be aware that they have a slightly higher fat content.
On the other hand, Wellness Soft Bites Training Treats are made without artificial ingredients or preservatives and are free from food fillers like grains and soy.
These treats are marketed for puppies but are also suitable for adult dogs, including Yorkies, and can be easily broken up to prevent overfeeding.
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Dos and Don'ts
As you start training and taking care of your Yorkie, it's essential to know what's good for them and what to avoid. Treats with fruits, vegetables, oatmeal, and peanut butter are great options, providing your Yorkie with tasty and nutritious rewards.
Avoid giving your Yorkie treats with artificial food colorings, chemical humectants, or artificial sweeteners, as they can cause allergic reactions and stomach issues. These ingredients are off-limits for small breeds like Yorkies.
Rawhide treats are good for their teeth, but they're a serious choking hazard for small breeds. So, it's best to steer clear of them.
Treats with higher fat content should also be avoided, as they can lead to obesity in no time. Your Yorkie's small stomach can't handle high-fat foods, so it's crucial to choose low-fat options.
If you're unsure about a particular food or food group, always consult with your veterinarian for more information. They'll be able to provide personalized advice tailored to your Yorkie's needs.
Here's a quick rundown of what to avoid:
- Artificial food colorings
- Chemical humectants
- Artificial sweeteners
- Rawhide treats (due to choking hazard)
- Treats with higher fat content
What Toys Do They Like?
Yorkies are notorious for their angsty personalities, which often lead them to seek out chew toys as a way to occupy themselves.
These toys are an excellent alternative to soft chew treats and hard edible treats like bones and hides, keeping them from chewing on furniture or barking unnecessarily.
Non-edible chew toys have zero calories, making them ideal for Yorkies prone to packing on pounds.
Chewing on these toys offers awesome dental benefits from the mechanics alone, similar to hides and bones.
They last way longer than edible treats, allowing you to clean and reuse them for several months.
The AWOOF 10 Pack Puppy Toys are a great option, featuring machine-washable plush covers that contribute to their longevity.
Chiwava 4 Pack Squeaky Dog Toys are another durable and non-toxic option made from latex for a satisfying chew experience.
Yorkies often form strong bonds with their toys, so it's essential to consider the durability of the toys as your Yorkie grows up.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do Yorkies enjoy most?
Yorkies thrive on mental and physical stimulation, enjoying activities like short walks, playtime with toys, and brain games that challenge their curious nature. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key to keeping these energetic pups happy and healthy.
What can Yorkies eat besides dog food?
Yorkies can safely eat cooked potatoes, sweet potatoes, lean meats like chicken, beef, or turkey, and pureed pumpkin as occasional treats, but always consult with a vet before making any changes to their diet. These foods can provide essential nutrients and fiber, but a balanced dog food should remain their primary source of nutrition.
Sources
- https://www.thehonestkitchen.com/blogs/pet-food-ingredients/best-dog-food-for-yorkies
- https://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/best-dog-foods/yorkies/
- https://www.raisedrightpets.com/blog/what-can-yorkies-eat/
- https://yorkies-gram.com/best-training-treats-for-yorkies/
- https://www.thegoodypet.com/what-are-good-treats-for-yorkies
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