If you’re a Yorkie owner, you’ll know how fussy these little canines can be about their food! So, what is the best homemade food for Yorkies? We’ve got some great Yorkie food recipes for you right here, so if you’re struggling to find your Yorkie foods they can eat, look no further!

The Best Homemade Food For Yorkies Revealed!

Have you ever been tempted to cook up some delicious food for your Yorkie? Feeding your dog homemade treats and meals is a great way to add some variation to your dog’s diet, but it is important to research the ingredients fully to ensure the diet is nutritionally balanced.

Feeding a completely homemade Yorkie diet is quite tricky, and it is normally preferable to feed homemade Yorkie treats alongside high-quality dog food from the pet store. Let’s take a look at some of the best homemade food for Yorkies to get you started!

1. Lean Beef & Veggie Mix (The Balanced Topper)

• The Recipe: Mix 1 cup of cooked, extra-lean ground beef with 1/2 cup of cooked brown rice and 1/4 cup of steamed, finely chopped carrots or green beans.
• Why it’s better: We flipped the ratio to be higher in protein and lower in starch to prevent weight gain.
• Yorkie Safety: Always drain the fat from the beef completely. Excess grease is a leading cause of pancreatitis in Yorkies.

2. Safety-First Peanut Butter Cookies

• The Recipe: Mix 1.5 cups of whole wheat flour with 1 cup of 100% Xylitol-free peanut butter, 1/4 cup shredded low-fat cheese, and 1 cup salt-free chicken broth. Roll out, cut into tiny “Yorkie-sized” shapes, and bake at 370°F for 15 minutes.
• Yorkie Safety: Check your label. Xylitol (often listed as birch sugar) is an artificial sweetener that is lethal to dogs.

3. Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Popsicles

• The Recipe: Mix equal parts 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling!) and plain, unsweetened yogurt. Pour into small ice molds and freeze.
• Why it’s better: It’s low-calorie and excellent for digestion.
• Yorkie Safety: Ensure the yogurt contains no artificial sweeteners or “fruit-on-the-bottom” syrups.

4. Slow-Cooker “Winter Comfort” Stew

• The Recipe: Place diced chicken breast, chopped sweet potatoes, and carrots in a slow cooker. Cover with water (no onions or garlic!) and cook on low for 8 hours.
• Why it’s better: We removed the “beans/lentils” as a primary filler due to heart health concerns and kept it to easily digestible veggies.
• Yorkie Safety: Never add salt or bouillon cubes, which are too high in sodium for a 7lb dog.

5. Healthy Apple & Carrot Biscuits

• The Recipe: Mix 1 grated apple (core and seeds removed!), 1 grated carrot, 1 cup oats, 1 egg, and a splash of water to bind. Bake at 370°F for 40 minutes.
• Yorkie Safety: Apple seeds contain trace amounts of cyanide. Always core the apple completely before grating for your dog.

6. Low-Fat Turkey Meatloaf

• The Recipe: Combine 1lb lean ground turkey with 1/2 cup rolled oats, 1 egg, and finely chopped spinach. Press into a loaf tin and bake at 370°F for 60–90 minutes.
• Yorkie Safety: Turkey is a great alternative to beef for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs or skin allergies. Slice into very small cubes before serving.

7. “Lite” Cheesy Training Treats

• The Recipe: Mix 2 cups whole wheat flour with 1/2 cup salt-free chicken stock and 1/4 cup low-fat cottage cheese (easier on the stomach than cream cheese). Add 1 egg, roll thin, and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
• Yorkie Safety: Many Yorkies are lactose intolerant. Using a small amount of low-fat cottage cheese provides the flavor they love without the digestive upset of heavier cheeses.

8. The “Omega-3” Fish Supper

• The Recipe: Steam one white fish fillet (like cod or tilapia). Flake it thoroughly into a bowl of 1/2 cup cooked quinoa or rice and steamed peas.
• Yorkie Safety: Check for bones twice. Even tiny bones can be a choking hazard or cause internal injury to a small breed. Fish is excellent for Yorkies with itchy skin!

9. Dehydrated Sweet Potato Chews

• The Recipe: Slice sweet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick strips. Lay them on a baking sheet and “slow-bake” at 250°F for 2.5 to 3 hours until they are tough and chewy.
• Yorkie Safety: These are a fantastic natural alternative to rawhide. Always supervise your Yorkie while they chew to ensure they don’t try to swallow a large piece whole.

Pro-Tip for ouryorkie.com Readers:

These recipes are designed as supplemental treats or meal toppers. To ensure your Yorkie gets all their essential vitamins and minerals, always feed these alongside a high-quality base kibble.

Best Dry Food For Yorkies

The dry food your Yorkie consumes should be nutritionally dense to match their high metabolism. Because Yorkies are prone to dental issues and sensitive stomachs, their kibble needs to work harder than “standard” dog food.

What To Look For On The Label

• High Protein (28–34%): Look for named animal proteins (chicken, lamb, or fish) as the first ingredient. Puppies need the higher end of this range for muscle development.
• Controlled Fats (12–18%): Essential for that signature silky coat. Look for Omega-3 and Omega-6 (fish oil or flaxseed). Avoid “High Fat” diets unless specifically recommended by a vet.
• Complex Carbohydrates: Brown rice, oats, and sweet potatoes provide steady energy without the blood sugar spikes associated with simple fillers.
• Precise Kibble Size: Yorkies have tiny mouths and crowded teeth. Large kibble can be a choking hazard and won’t provide the “scraping” action needed to help clean teeth.

Our Top Pick: Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier

Royal Canin remains our top recommendation because they are one of the few brands that scientifically tailor the kibble shape to the Yorkie’s unique “undershot” jaw.

• Yorkie Puppy (Under 10 months): High-calorie density for rapid growth and immune support. [Shop on Amazon →]
• Yorkie Adult: Enriched with biotin and borage oil for coat health. [Shop on Amazon →]
• Yorkie Senior 8+: Includes a specialized antioxidant complex to support aging cells and kidney function. [Shop on Amazon →]

Scale Tip: Always measure your Yorkie’s meals with a kitchen scale. Because their portions are so small (often just 30–50g), “eyeballing” a scoop can easily result in 20% more calories than they need!

Dry vs. Wet: The Verdict

For adult Yorkies, dry food is often preferred as a base because the mechanical crunch helps reduce tartar build-up—a major concern for this breed. However, wet food is not “bad.” It is an excellent way to add hydration and is often necessary for puppies to prevent hypoglycemia or for seniors with missing teeth.

Best Wet Food For Yorkie Puppies

The food intended for puppies is not the same as for adult dogs. Their diet must be balanced, nutritionally rich, and more caloric to support rapid growth. Puppies also have a higher risk of low blood sugar than adults, so meal regularity matters.

The following selections are formulated for the growth stage to support healthy brain development and prevent the hypoglycemia risks you mentioned.

#1: Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Loaf in Sauce

Specifically designed for Yorkies up to 10 months old. This formula contains an antioxidant complex, including Vitamin E, to support their developing immune systems. It also includes biotin and omega fatty acids for that signature Yorkie coat.

• Target: Growth Stage (Puppy)
• Key Benefit: High palatability for picky eaters.

#2: Merrick Lil’ Plates “Pint-Sized Puppy Plate“

Unlike the variety pack mentioned previously, this specific recipe is grain-free and features deboned chicken as the first ingredient. It includes DHA to support healthy brain development, which is critical during the first few months.

• Target: Growth Stage (Puppy)
• Key Benefit: Small, easy-to-chew morsels in a savory gravy.

#3: Wellness Complete Health Just for Puppies

A specialized “Growth” formula made with premium proteins and vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots. It is balanced with the correct calcium-to-phosphorus ratio for small-breed bone growth.

• Target: Growth Stage (Puppy)
• Key Benefit: No meat by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives.

#4: Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Puppy (Small Breed)

This pâté-style wet food is enriched with DHA and contains high-quality protein to support muscle development. It’s a dense, caloric meal that helps maintain steady blood sugar levels throughout the day.

Key Benefit: Natural ingredients with added vitamins and minerals.

Target: Growth Stage (Puppy)

How Much Wet Food Should a Yorkie Eat Per Day?

Because Yorkies are so small, “eyeballing” a portion is dangerous. A general guideline for total daily intake is:

• 2–3 Months: 1/2 to 5/8 cup total, split into 4–5 small meals.
• 4–6 Months: 5/8 to 3/4 cup total, split into 3–4 meals.
• 7–10 Months: 3/4 to 1 cup total, split into 2–3 meals.
• Adults (12+ Months): Typically 1/2 to 3/4 cup total, split into 2 meals.

Important: These are estimates. The exact amount depends entirely on your dog’s current weight and the calorie density of the specific brand you are feeding.

🧮 Don’t Guess! To get the perfect portion for your Yorkie’s specific age and activity level, use our interactive OurYorkie Feeding Calculator here. It takes the guesswork out of mealtime so you can avoid underfeeding or obesity.

Best Food For Yorkie With Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that prevents the proper production of digestive enzymes. In Yorkies, this is often triggered by eating high-fat table scraps (like bacon or cheese). If left untreated, it can be fatal.

Signs of Pancreatitis in Dogs

• Abdominal pain and/or bloated appearance
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Weakness or loss of energy
• Hunched posture

If your Yorkie shows any of these symptoms, a vet visit is crucial.

What to Feed a Yorkie With Pancreatitis

The goal is to keep the “fat load” as low as possible to give the pancreas a rest. Small, frequent meals (3–4 per day) are essential to prevent the digestive system from being overwhelmed.

Wellness Natural Pet Food – Healthy Weight Small Breed Turkey & Brown Rice

Made without meat by-products, fillers, GMOs, or artificial preservatives. Contains turkey, brown rice, omega fatty acids, probiotics, and taurine. Guarantees healthy body weight and improved energy. Check Price on Amazon →

Blue Buffalo Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe

Made with real meat — no poultry by-product meals, soy, wheat, corn, or artificial flavors. Low fat, low calorie, high fiber to support gastrointestinal health. Check Price on Amazon →

Annamaet Grain-Free Lean

A low-fat formula perfect for weight management and easy digestion. Contains L-carnitine for fat metabolism, plus minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins. No GMOs, wheat, corn, or soy. Check Price on Amazon →Homemade “Bland Diet” Tips (For Recovery)

If your vet recommends a homemade “bland diet” during recovery, stick to these ultra-low-fat staples:

• Proteins: Boiled, skinless chicken breast or boiled extra-lean ground turkey (drain all fat!).
• Carbs: Plain white rice or boiled white potatoes (no skin).
• Avoid: Eggs, dairy, oils, butter, or any fatty meats.

⚠️ Note from OurYorkie: If your dog is currently vomiting or showing a “hunched” posture, do not try to feed them. Withhold food and contact your vet immediately. Most pancreatitis cases require a period of “gut rest” under medical supervision.

Best Food For Itchy Yorkies

Is your Yorkie constantly licking their paws, scratching their ears, or dealing with red, flaky skin? Just like humans, Yorkies can suffer from food allergies. Managing “the itch” starts with what goes into their bowl.

How to Recognize a Food Allergy

It can be hard to tell the difference between environmental allergies (pollen) and food allergies. Watch for:

• The “Paw Lick”: Constant licking or chewing of the feet.
• Chronic Ear Issues: Redness, odor, or frequent infections.
• Skin & Coat: Rashes, “hot spots,” or a dull, thinning coat.
• Digestive Upset: Frequent gas, loose stools, or vomiting.

Common Yorkie Allergens

The most common triggers are actually the most common ingredients:

1. Proteins: Beef, Chicken, Dairy, and Egg.
2. Fillers: Wheat gluten or soy.
3. Additives: Artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

How to Choose the Best Food for an Itchy Yorkie

• Formulation: Choose food suitable for small breeds or all-breed types. Look for an American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) seal on the label.
• Wet vs. Dry: This comes down to your dog’s preference. Wet food has stronger smell and taste; dry is easier to store. For itchy dogs, neither has a universal advantage.
• Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): Fewer ingredients make it much easier to identify and eliminate allergens.
• Homemade food: The most controlled option. Always consult a vet first, and use fresh, high-quality proteins mixed with safe vegetables and supplements.

Best Dog Food For Yorkies With Allergies

Limited Ingredient Diets

• Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet – Turkey and Potato: Grain-free, deboned turkey and potatoes. For adults only.
• Canidae Pure Grain-Free – Real Salmon and Sweet Potato: Salmon, sweet potatoes, peas. Grain-free, for adults only.
• Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Healthy Grains – Turkey and Rice: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, oatmeal). For adult Yorkies only.

Hypoallergenic Dog Foods

• Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor: Hydrolyzed soy protein isolate. Grain-free, for adults only. Excellent for sensitive dogs.
• Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP: Grain-inclusive (brewers rice). Suitable for all life stages including puppies.

The Elimination Trial (The 8-Week Rule)

Switching food for one week isn’t enough. To truly clear a Yorkie’s system of allergens, you must commit to a strict diet for 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, no table scraps or flavored treats are allowed—only the allergy-safe food!

🧪 Portion Control during Trials: Use the OurYorkie Feeding Calculator to make sure your Yorkie is getting enough nutrients during their elimination trial, especially if you are using a specialized veterinary diet.

Best Food For Yorkie Poo Puppies

The Yorkiepoo is a hybrid between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Poodle: affectionate, loveable, and energetic. Their food needs vary by life stage. Puppies require dense-calorie diets due to high metabolism.

Nutritional Requirements for Yorkie Poo Puppies

• Protein: minimum 22% — essential for muscle building and rapid growth
• Fat: around 8% — for energy
• Carbohydrates: from fruits and vegetables to prevent hypoglycemia
• Free from GMOs, preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors

Top Products for Yorkie Poo Puppies

Merrick Lil’ Plates Pint-Sized Puppy Plate

Real deboned chicken as first ingredient, small plate size suitable for puppies. Contains omega fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin, prebiotics, probiotics, and minerals. 100% grain-free with natural carbohydrate sources. Check Price on Amazon →

American Journey Puppy Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe

Real deboned lamb as main protein. Balanced formula with zinc, calcium, phosphorus, selenium, and vitamin E. Free from grain, corn, wheat, and soy. Salmon oil and flaxseed for omega-3 and 6. Check Price on Chewy →

Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Formula

Cage-free chicken as first ingredient, 32% protein and 22% fat — ideal for very active Yorkiepoo puppies. Free from corn, wheat, and artificial flavors. Contains probiotics, antioxidants, and omega fatty acids. Check Price on Amazon →

Hill’s Science Diet Puppy, Small Bites, Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe

Vet-recommended. Real chicken with no by-products. Fish oil for DHA supporting brain and eye development. Balanced minerals and vitamins for bone health. Check Price on Amazon →

Foods To Avoid Feeding Your Yorkie

• Fruits: apple seeds, avocado, grapes, raisins, persimmon, peaches, plum pits, rhubarb, tomato leaves
• Vegetables: garlic, mushrooms, corn on the cob, onions, chives
• Proteins: almonds, cooked bones, raw meat and fish, raw eggs, bacon, fat trimmings
• Pantry items: chocolate, salt, sugar, yeast, macadamia nuts, baking soda, baking powder, popcorn
• Beverages: alcohol, dairy milk, coffee, tea, and other caffeine drinks
• Other: xylitol (in some peanut butters), cat food, sugary foods, coconut oil in large amounts

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Even the most well-meaning Yorkie owners can accidentally fall into these traps. Keep your pup healthy by avoiding these four common errors:

1. The “Table Scrap” Trap: Sharing a bite of your dinner is a hard habit to break, but it’s the fastest way to cause a pancreatitis flare. Foods high in fat (butter, grease, fat trimmings) are
2. dangerous, and items like onions, garlic, coffee, and chocolate are toxic.
3. Inconsistent Portioning: “Eyeballing” a scoop leads to steady weight gain. Because a 7lb Yorkie is so small, an extra 50 calories is equivalent to a human eating a full extra meal. Always use a kitchen scale to measure.
4. The “All-at-Once” Feeding: Feeding your Yorkie a single large meal is a mistake. Their tiny digestive systems and metabolism require multiple, smaller meals throughout the day to keep their blood sugar stable and prevent hypoglycemia.
5. Improper Mixing: If you are transitioning your dog to a new food or mixing wet and dry, do it gradually over 7–10 days. A sudden change in protein source or fat content is a primary cause of “runny stools” and digestive distress in small breeds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary: The Best Approach to Yorkie Nutrition

As we’ve explored, there is no “one-size-fits-all” bowl for a Yorkshire Terrier. Whether you are cooking up our 9 homemade recipes, choosing a breed-specific dry kibble, or managing a health condition like pancreatitis, the goal is the same: balanced nutrition and precise portions.

Feeding a 100% homemade diet is a complex challenge, which is why we recommend using homemade meals as healthy “toppers” or treats alongside high-quality, vet-approved dog food. Remember, a Yorkie’s metabolism is unique. Always prioritize low-fat ingredients and use a kitchen scale to prevent overfeeding.

We hope this guide helps you feel more confident in feeding your tiny best friend!