Yorkshire Terriers love treats, but choosing the right ones is important for their health, weight management, and dental care. Since Yorkies are a small breed, they need bite-sized, nutritious, and easily digestible treats.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best healthy treats for Yorkies, what to avoid, and how to use treats effectively for training and rewards.
What to Look for in a Good Treat for Yorkies
✔ Small & Soft – Yorkies have tiny mouths and sensitive teeth.
✔ Low-Calorie – Helps prevent weight gain (especially for less active Yorkies).
✔ Natural Ingredients – Avoid artificial preservatives, flavors, and fillers.
✔ High in Protein & Nutrients – Supports muscle growth and coat health.
✔ Good for Dental Health – Some treats help clean teeth and reduce plaque.
Best Types of Treats for Yorkshire Terriers
1. Soft & Chewy Treats (Perfect for Training)
Yorkies respond well to soft treats because they’re easy to chew and digest.
✔ Blue Buffalo Bits – Small, healthy, and available in chicken, salmon, and beef flavors.
✔ Zuke’s Mini Naturals – Low-calorie and made with real meat.
✔ Wellness Soft Puppy Bites – A great choice for Yorkie puppies.
2. Crunchy Treats (For Dental Health)
Crunchy treats help remove plaque and tartar buildup, keeping your Yorkie’s teeth healthy.
✔ Whimzees Dental Chews – Made from natural ingredients, great for small breeds.
✔ Greenies Teenie Treats – Help freshen breath and clean teeth.
✔ Blue Buffalo Dental Bones – Easy to chew and support oral health.
3. Freeze-Dried & Dehydrated Treats (Nutrient-Dense & High Protein)
These treats are made from single-ingredient, real meat, which makes them high in protein and ideal for picky eaters.
✔ Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Treats – Made from raw, natural meats.
✔ Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Minnows – Rich in omega-3 for a shiny coat.
✔ PureBites Chicken Breast – A simple, protein-packed treat.
4. Natural & Homemade Treats (Healthy & Budget-Friendly)
If you prefer homemade treats, these are safe and healthy for Yorkies:
✔ Small carrot sticks – Great for chewing and low in calories.
✔ Apple slices (without seeds) – Provide fiber and vitamins.
✔ Plain boiled chicken – A lean, protein-rich snack.
✔ Pumpkin puree (unsweetened) – Supports digestion.
Avoid store-bought treats with:
- Artificial colors, preservatives, or by-products.
- High-fat content (like bacon or sausage).
- Sugar, xylitol, or chocolate (toxic to dogs).
How Many Treats Can a Yorkie Have Per Day?
🐶 Treats should make up no more than 10% of your Yorkie’s daily calorie intake.
🐶 For small Yorkies (under 7 lbs), 2-4 small treats per day is enough.
🐶 For active Yorkies, 5-6 small treats can be given, but adjust their meals accordingly.
When to Give Your Yorkie Treats
✔ During training – Rewards encourage positive behavior.
✔ As a bedtime snack – Helps settle them down.
✔ After exercise or grooming – Reinforces a good experience.
Yorkies love their treats, but choosing healthy options and feeding in moderation is key to keeping them happy, active, and in great shape. 🐶✨
