Best Dog Food for Yorkies
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What’s the best dog food for a Yorkie?
The answer to that important question should be based on the AGE and LIFE STAGE of YOUR particular dog.
That’s because…
Yorkie puppies… adults… and seniors… EACH have different nutritional requirements for the best long-term health.
For example…
A dog food designed for an adult Yorkie may contain too little calcium for a growing puppy… or too little protein and too many calories for a less active older dog.1 2
And there are other nutritional differences, too.
For example…
A Yorkie puppy needs 1.29% leucine (one of 12 essential amino acids)… while an adult requires just 0.68% of the exact same nutrient.3
In comparison…
A senior Yorkie benefits from a dog food that contains more protein… and fewer calories per serving.
The Bottom Line
Since there are no official nutrient guidelines for ANY particular breed, including Yorkies… and to achieve optimal long-term health…
It’s important to choose a dog food that’s designed to match the nutrient profile that best suits your Yorkie’s age.
The 3 Life Stages of a Yorkie
The age ranges in the following table were obtained from multiple sources and can be used to help you find the best food for your Yorkshire terrier.
Top Picks by Life Stage
On the list below…
You’ll find The Dog Food Advisor’s best dog and puppy foods for Yorkies based on the life stage of your pet.
You’ll also learn the answer to each of the 6 most frequently asked questions we get about feeding this super-popular toy breed terrier.
Best Dog Food for Yorkies April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for Yorkies for April 2024.
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1. Canidae
Canidae Multi-Protein is one of 5 dry recipes rated in our review of the Canidae product line.
This particular Canidae formula derives the bulk of its animal protein from chicken meal, turkey meal, and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 16% fat and 49% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
An all life stages, protein-rich, grain-inclusive dog food that boasts no fewer than 3 meat “concentrates” within its first 5 ingredients. A super-popular recipe that’s nutrient balanced for both adults as well as puppies. An easy pick, for sure. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog scarfs this down so no complaints. Her tummy is regular and I was able to easily get her off the half and half wet dry situation the rescue shelter had her on. I think she’s just glad to have food honestly but for me it was a priority to buy this brand due to the minimal processed ingredients and whole food based formula"
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2. The Farmer's Dog
The Farmers Dog Pork Recipe is one of 4 fresh recipes covered in our review of the Farmer’s Dog human-grade product line.
The Farmers Dog gets most of its meat protein from fresh pork. Dry matter label analysis shows the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
If you’ve ever wished you could prepare a fresh, home-cooked meal for your Yorkie… without all the mess and hard work… then The Farmer’s Dog may be the perfect choice.
Loaded with top level, human-grade ingredients… wrapped in a fully balanced recipe that’s suitable for both puppies and adults.
Expertly designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN). Not cheap. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"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 would like to express my gratitude to you. The change in Maggie is unbelievable and makes my family, myself and her so happy."
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3. Wellness Complete Health Small Breed
Small Breed Adult is one of 13 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.
This small breed formula gets the bulk of its animal protein from fresh deboned turkey, chicken meal, and salmon meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 17% fat and 44% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 54%.
Wellness Complete Health Small Breed is formulated with 3 animal protein sources for high energy and strong muscles. The recipe includes a balanced blend of high-quality protein, healthy fat and grain-inclusive carbohydrates to deliver peak energy and optimal performance.
Added fiber and probiotics are included to aid in digestion and antioxidants to help resist disease and infection.
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have a Rat Terrier/Chihuahua mix that is a picky eater (like a lot of little breeds are). I recently switched to the Wellness brand after reading a lot of reviews and seeing the ingredient list is pretty solid. The kibble is very small and easy for her to eat, which is a plus. Once she starts eating, she eats the entire bowl. Overall I am very happy with my purchase and glad to have found a wholesome food my dog enjoys eating."
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4. Merrick ‘Lil Plates Small Breed Dog Food
Merricks ‘Lil Plates Beef Recipe is one of 8 wet recipes included in our review of the Merrick product line.
Merrick ‘Lil Plates gets the major portion of its meat protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
It’s 100% nutritionally complete and balanced design with added vitamins, minerals and other trace nutrients. Contains no grain, GMOs, corn, wheat, or soy. Also free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. A quality wet diet for Yorkies and smaller dogs.
Recommended with confidence.
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We have a very small 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."
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5. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior
This Small Breed Senior formula is one of 21 dry recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo product line.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Small Breed Senior obtains most of its meat protein from deboned chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 26% protein, 14% fat and 52% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.
With just 371 calories per cup and only 14% dry matter fat, this recipe makes an excellent food for a senior Yorkie. Reasonably priced. Highly recommended.
For More Choices: See our Best Dog Food for Seniors page
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs skin, coat and overall health is top-notch! This is the best quality dog food at a reasonable price that always is consistently great!"
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6. Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food
Grain Free Chicken and Turkey is one of 4 dry recipes covered in our review of the Whole Earth Farms product line.
This Whole Earth Farms recipe draws the major part of its meat protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 16% fat and 46% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
It’s also worth noting this formula contains zinc amino acid complex and 3 other chelated minerals for superior absorption and nutrition. Costly chelated minerals like these are usually found in better quality brands. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is allergic to rice, brewers 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 totally reasonably priced and truly seems like a great quality dog food. I have it on autoship and my dog seems to love it too!"
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7. Health Extension
Little Bites is one of 6 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Health Extension product line.
Health Extension Little Bites gets the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh deboned organic chicken, chicken meal, and lamb meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 20% fat and 45% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 75%.
This small breed formula delivers a highly digestible design with no artificial flavors, coloring agents or preservatives. A nutrient rich, balanced recipe that’s loaded with antioxidants for a healthy immune system. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Health Extension Dog Food (Dry) range 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We love all of Health Extension Little Bites. The bites are very, very small...so perfect for our Yorkie rescues that have no teeth, and those that do have teeth. And we love all the healthy ingredients in it...this is our favorite dog food!"
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8. Orijen Regional Red
Regional Red is one of 9 dry recipes included in our review of the Orijen product line.
Orijen Regional Red acquires the bulk of its animal protein from beef, wild boar, lamb, and pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 20% fat and 28% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 47%.
From its beginnings, Champion Petfoods, the legendary maker of Orijen, has always been a staunch apostle for a meat-based, “biologically appropriate” diet… a time-proven design which makes this food a top choice for both puppies and adults. A top choice. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Orijen Dog Food (Dry) range 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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"We love this food! Ever since we started feeding this, we have noticed our dog has needed 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!"
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9. American Journey Active Life Formula
Chicken and Brown Rice is one of 16 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the American Journey product line.
This particular American Journey formula derives most of its animal protein from fresh deboned chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
A quality, budget-friendly, grain-inclusive kibble, ideal for Yorkies of all ages. Excellent nutrition, especially for the price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full American Journey Protein & Grains Dry Dog Food range here
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...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"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. Also has probiotics and Omega 3 & 6. Also fortified with vitamins but no filler products. And best of all the price is very affordable."
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10. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food
Small Breed Puppy is one of 13 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Diamond Naturals product line.
Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy acquires the majority of its animal protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 24% fat and 32% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 69%.
Contains no corn, wheat or soy for a fully-balanced, nutrient-rich formula. Because it qualifies as an all life stages design, this small breed puppy recipe can also be fed to adult Yorkies, too.
An excellent value. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Diamond Naturals Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, ground white rice, chicken fat, cracked pearled barley Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Yorkie puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"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 honestly even smells good not like other food. Higher protein and fat content to maintain his weight."
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11. Hills Science Diet Small Paws Puppy
Small Paws is one of 6 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Hills Science Diet product line.
This Hill’s Science Diet formula derives much of its animal protein from chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 17% fat and 48% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A classic, grain-inclusive puppy recipe containing omega-rich fish for healthy coat and joints. Easy on the pocketbook, too. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Food (Dry) range here
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 Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog has a sensitive tummy and is very picky. This is one of the only foods that works for her. I had gone through many different food brands and she just could not handle them. Royal Canin small puppy worked amazing, but just isn't very 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."
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12. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Food
Yorkshire Terrier Puppy is one of 11 dry recipes studied in our review of the Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition product line.
This Royal Canin Breed Health recipe derives the majority of its meat protein from chicken by-product meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe includes 30% protein, 20% fat and 42% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 67%.
Formulated to meet the precise nutritional needs of purebred Yorkie puppies. Featuring a specialized kibble size that’s optimized for a smaller muzzle and bite. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition Puppy Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, chicken fat, corn, dried plain beet pulp Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Growth Best For Yorkie puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I have a 4.5 month old adorable, but extremely skinny, Yorkie puppy! With oversight from her vet, we have tried and she has rejected FOUR brands of puppy chow, as well as supermarket canned and frozen dog food. Overriding my vet's advice to NOT use Royal Canin puppy chow because of some of its less than stellar contents, in desperation I ordered it and it just arrived this morning. I mixed some with Science Diet and Victors and gave it to her. She TURNED THE BOWL OVER and happily picked out the Royal Canin. Now I can quit feeding her home cooked chicken, close my eyes to Royal Canin's content list, and rely on the other Yorkie parents' glowing reviews! Should have made this decision months ago..."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I switch to a new food... without making my Yorkie sick?
In the following video…
Dr. Gary Richter shares a simple feeding tip that can help reduce your Yorkie’s risk of getting sick when you switch to a new dog food.
Do Yorkies need special dog food?
There are no official pet food industry or FDA nutrient standards established specifically for Yorkshire Terriers. However, because Yorkie puppies, adults and seniors EACH have different nutritional requirements, it’s important to select a food that’s designed to match the life stage of YOUR particular dog.
How much food should I feed my Yorkie?
A landmark 2002 study discovered that dogs fed an amount of food to maintain them at ideal body condition lived 1.8 years longer… than other dogs. 7
Since every Yorkie is different, it’s impossible to predict the exact serving size that’s “ideal” for every animal. So, start with the feeding amount printed on the package. Or your results from using our dog food calculator. Then, over time, adjust that amount up or down… to reach and maintain your Yorkie at ideal body weight.
What's the best food for a Yorkie puppy?
Since they’re considered small breed dogs, Yorkie benefit from eating foods that contain the right balance of calcium and other nutrients specifically designed for puppies. So, until he (or she) reaches 9 to 12 months, your Yorkie should be eating a dog food that meets AAFCO nutrient guidelines… and labeled “for Growth” or “for All life stages”.
In addition to the Royal Canin Yorkie Puppy Food above, you’ll find a complete list of The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Small Breed Puppy Foods here.
What's the best dog food for a senior Yorkie?
According to VCA Hospitals, small breed dogs tend to live longer than large breeds. Yorkies aren’t considered “senior” until they reach 11 years of age. So, if your Yorkie is 11 years (or older), you may wish to visit The Dog Food Advisor’s Best Senior Dog Foods page here.
