Many Yorkshire Terrier owners love sharing food with their furry companions, but not all human foods are safe for dogs. Some foods can provide health benefits, while others can be toxic and dangerous.
This guide will help you understand which human foods are safe for your Yorkie, which to avoid, and how to feed them a balanced diet.
Safe Human Foods for Yorkshire Terriers
These foods can be healthy and beneficial for your Yorkie when given in moderation:
Fruits
✔ Apples (without seeds) – Rich in fiber and vitamin C.
✔ Blueberries – Full of antioxidants.
✔ Bananas – A great source of potassium, but in small amounts due to sugar content.
✔ Watermelon (seedless) – Hydrating and low in calories.
✔ Strawberries – Good for the immune system and skin.
🚫 Avoid grapes, raisins, cherries, and avocado, as they are toxic to dogs.
Vegetables
✔ Carrots – Good for dental health.
✔ Sweet potatoes – A great source of fiber and vitamin A.
✔ Green beans – Low in calories and full of vitamins.
✔ Pumpkin – Helps with digestion and upset stomachs.
✔ Broccoli – Safe in small amounts but can cause gas.
Avoid: onions, garlic, and raw potatoes, as they can be harmful.
Proteins
✔ Cooked chicken or turkey (boneless) – Lean and high in protein.
✔ Cooked salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
✔ Eggs – A great protein source but should be fully cooked.
✔ Plain yogurt – Contains probiotics that aid digestion.
Avoid: raw eggs, raw fish, and processed meats like ham or bacon.
Grains & Carbohydrates
✔ Cooked rice – Gentle on the stomach.
✔ Oatmeal – A great fiber source, especially for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs.
✔ Plain popcorn – Safe in small amounts, but no butter or salt.
🚫 Avoid bread dough, as yeast can cause bloating and stomach issues.
Dangerous Human Foods for Yorkshire Terriers
Highly Toxic Foods
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs.
- Grapes & Raisins – Can cause kidney failure.
- Onions & Garlic – Damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
- Xylitol (Artificial Sweetener) – Found in sugar-free gum and peanut butter; can cause liver failure.
- Avocado – Contains persin, which is toxic to dogs.
- Alcohol & Caffeine – Can cause heart problems and poisoning.
Foods That Can Cause Digestive Issues
❌ Dairy (milk, cheese, ice cream) – Many Yorkies are lactose intolerant.
❌ Fatty foods (fried or greasy meals) – Can lead to pancreatitis.
❌ Raw bones – Risk of choking or splintering.
How to Safely Feed Human Food to Your Yorkie
✔ Introduce new foods gradually to prevent stomach upset.
✔ Feed in moderation – Human food should be a treat, not a diet replacement.
✔ Avoid added salt, sugar, or seasoning when preparing human food for your dog.
✔ Cut food into small pieces to prevent choking.
When to Call a Vet
- If your Yorkie eats something toxic, watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, or lethargy.
- Call a vet immediately if you suspect poisoning.
While some human foods can be healthy treats, always prioritize a balanced, dog-friendly diet. Feeding your Yorkie the right foods will keep them happy, healthy, and full of energy. 🐶✨
