Whether you just got a Yorkshire Terrier or are thinking about getting one, one of the most crucial things to know is how much to feed a Yorkie puppy.
Giving your puppy the correct food is an important part of getting him off to a good start.
You'll need to know how much to feed a Yorkshire terrier puppy and what to look out for in terms of their growth and development.
If you want to keep track of your Yorkie's weight, here's a growth chart.
This is all you need to know about caring for and feeding a Yorkie puppy.
How Much Should A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Eat?
Despite the fact that Yorkies are one of the tiniest dog breeds available, they nevertheless require a steady and nutritious eating routine.
A Yorkie puppy should be fed three to four times a day, with portions distributed evenly throughout the day.
Throughout the day, a puppy will only consume 14 to 12 cups of food. This may not appear to be much, but keep in mind that these are little dogs who do not require much food.
You can keep your Yorkie puppy as healthy and happy as possible by understanding how much to feed him and keeping him on a feeding plan.
Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Feeding Chart
Here Are The Feeding Suggestions For A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy
Yorkie Puppy, 2 Weeks
Your Yorkie puppy, who is only two weeks old, is not going anywhere. The puppies should have opened their eyes for the first time and begun to take in their surroundings by this point.
These puppies are totally dependent on their mother's milk to survive.
At this age, they cannot eat standard puppy dog food. They should still be able to suckle from their mother on demand, and she should not be allowed to leave her litter.
Yorkie Puppy, 3 Weeks
When your Yorkie puppy reaches the age of three weeks, he will be able to view the world more clearly, but he will remain close to his mother. They're still tiny and delicate, but they're also uncoordinated at this age.
He may be attempting to walk, but it will be awkward. The puppy should still be completely reliant on his mother's milk at three weeks.
Yorkie Puppy, 4 Weeks
If you want to get a head start on the weaning process, start when your Yorkie is four weeks old. Don't be surprised if the puppy dismisses your suggestion.
A food mixture of one part food to three parts water will be required.
Your 4-week-old Yorkie puppy can be completely uninterested in it. At this point, the baby should still be nursed by his mother.
Yorkie Puppy, 5 Weeks
When a puppy is 5 weeks old, you should try to pique his interest in the food mixture you may have fed him the week before.
He may be more interested now, but he may still be averse to tasting it.
Regardless, the mother dog should still be nursing the puppies, so don't be concerned if he isn't ready to wean. Some breeders may try to force it at this point, but the best thing to do is wait until the puppy is ready.
Yorkie Puppy, 6 Weeks
A Yorkie puppy should be exhibiting more interest in the food/water mixture you've already fed him by the time he's six weeks old.
If he eats it, lower the amount of water in the combination by half after a few days, then to 3 parts food to 1 part water until you're only feeding the puppy dry dog food.
Dry kibble cleans the teeth of Yorkies far better than wet food.
Yorkie Puppy, 7 Weeks
A Yorkie puppy may or may not be nursing from his mother at 7 weeks old. The mother should spend significantly less time with the puppies and substantially more time alone.
If she gets near the puppies, they will still avidly suckle from her, but she is unlikely to stay for long. Puppies should eat modest amounts of puppy food three to four times a day.
Yorkie Puppy, 8 Weeks
For a Yorkie puppy, 8 weeks is a huge week. This is the week they are going to be rehomed. The puppies should be fully dependent on kibble at this point, but they may still try to nurse their mother if she approaches them.
If you're adopting an 8-week-old Yorkie puppy, try to find out what kind of puppy food he's been eating so you don't upset his stomach once you get him home.
Yorkie Puppy, 9 Weeks
When your Yorkie puppy reaches the age of nine weeks, he should be rehomed and acclimated to his new surroundings.
Because he is no longer with his mother, you may establish a consistent feeding routine for him that will not be disrupted by nursing.
If you're switching his diet, do so gradually, mixing the old and new foods to avoid stomach discomfort, unless the puppy is having problems with the previous food. Then you may just swap it out.
Yorkie Puppy, 10 Weeks
The rules of your home should be familiar to a 10-week-old Yorkie dog. He should eat three to four times a day.
Depending on the size of your Yorkie and his appetite, you should feed him anywhere from 14 to 12 cup of food per day.
This may not appear to be much, but Yorkies, especially puppies, do not require much food. After a few minutes, remove any food that hasn't been consumed.
Yorkie Puppy, 11 Weeks
Your Yorkie puppy is probably full of energy at 11 weeks. Your Yorkie puppy is going through a phase of rapid development. If he appears to be more hungry than usual, you can increase his food by 1/8 cup, making sure to remove any unfinished food.
Your puppy's stomach should be expanding as well, indicating that he will require more calories to grow properly.
Yorkie Puppy, 12 Weeks
When your Yorkie puppy reaches the age of 12 weeks, you must ensure that he or she remains small and trim. Yorkies do not require baby fat, but their small frames necessitate that they be maintained small.Due to the length of your puppy's fur, it may be difficult to distinguish a waist, therefore regular doctor visits with weight checks are required. A 12-week-old Yorkie puppy still need three meals every day.
Is It Possible To Free Feed A Yorkie Puppy?
When extremely young Yorkies are being weaned, it's a good idea to give them free food. You can free-feed your Yorkie puppy until he's roughly 3 months old.
You can also wait till they're 2 pounds and a half. It's fine to start feeding them in a more regimented manner after this time.
You can free-feed your dog by simply providing fresh food in areas where he or she is likely to eat. It needs to be accessible at all times.
You should avoid piling new and fresh food on top of old food because this will cause the old food to sink to the bottom. This practice has the potential to make your dog sick.
Is It Better To Give Your Yorkie Puppy Dry Or Wet Food?
Many puppies prefer wet food than dry food, owing to the fact that wet food is softer. However, moist food is not always best for your dog.
Dry food is better for your dog's gums and teeth than wet food. If your dog is eating wet food, you may find that his stool is watery.
Many people fix the problem by mixing dry kibble with wet dog food. You can also soften dry kibble by adding water to it.
When it comes to a Yorkie with a small mouth, the kibble size must be considered. It's possible that it's too big for him to chew and will cause complications.
Is It Possible To Feed A Yorkie Puppy Raw Food?
Yorkshire Terriers are descended from dogs that lived in the wild, therefore they can benefit greatly from a raw food diet.
BARF (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food or Bones and Raw Food) is another name for this eating style. This diet is advantageous because the food is free of chemicals and hazardous fillers.
Even while this type of diet can be really healthy, there are certain drawbacks to be aware of. A Yorkie's raw food diet should be overseen by someone who is knowledgeable about the breed's nutritional needs.
Because salmonella and E. coli can make your dog very sick, food handling and storage should be done with extreme caution.
Rabbits, pork, fresh, turkey, beef, and lamb are all options for your Yorkie. It is preferable to feed him a single protein source at first, and later diversify.
Every day, he should lose 2-4 percent of his body weight. You can now start introducing veggies like pumpkin, carrots, broccoli, and spinach as baby becomes adjusted to the raw diet. Fruits such as oranges, apples, watermelon, and pears can also be fed to him.
How Many Calories Does A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Need?
Your Yorkie's calorie requirements are determined by his weight, age, and amount of physical activity.
However, based on studies, there is an average that can be offered for what a typical Yorkshire Terrier should be eaten.
As a general rule, younger Yorkie puppies need roughly 200 calories per day, while mature dogs only need 150 calories.
However, because elderly Yorkie dogs are less active and becoming overweight might cause major difficulties, this quantity should be reduced to 120 calories.
Past Yorkie study isn't the only approach to figure out how many calories they require. You can also use the RER approach to get around.
The RER technique can be calculated in two different methods. The first method is for medium-sized animals, while the second can be utilized for tiny and large types.
Because the Yorkie is a small breed, the second calculation is weight in kilograms to the 34th power x 70 = RER.
For example, if your Yorkie weights 1.36 kg and we use the calculation, we'll arrive at
88 kcal/day = 70 x (1.36 kg)34
What Human Foods Can A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Eat?
Yorkshire Terriers are pedigree dogs, thus their diets are quite essential to them as dog owners.
To avoid a variety of health issues, they must be properly nourished. However, this does not rule out the possibility of foods that are suitable for both dogs and people.
We know that dogs need a lot of animal protein to stay healthy and that humans eat a lot of animal protein as well. As a result, this is an excellent example of human foods that Yorkies can consume.
Fruits like oranges, apples, watermelon, and pears, as well as vegetables such pumpkin carrots, broccoli, and spinach, provide fiber and vital nutrients.
What Human Foods Are Dangerous For A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy?
It's important to remember that while your Yorkie can eat human foods, there are other items that could be harmful to them if consumed. It may only cause an upset stomach or diarrhea in some situations, but it can also be fatal in others. The following are some of these foods:
Many people are aware that chocolate is toxic to dogs. It's actually quite dangerous, as it can lead to muscle spasms, seizures, and even death.
Caffeine – Caffeine is poisonous to your dog's system, which is why feeding your dog human snacks is not a smart idea because many of them include caffeine.
Grapes and raisins – This has been demonstrated to cause kidney failure in some dogs, but it does not appear to be detrimental to other dogs. It's advised to err on the side of caution and keep this away from your Yorkie.
Shallots are included in the category of onions and garlic. Anything from the onion family has been shown to be hazardous to a dog's system.
Alcohol and raw bread dough include ethanol, which is toxic to dogs, while uncooked bread dough can induce stomach enlargement and breathing problems.
Yorkshire Terrier Puppies’ Best Dog Food
1. Yorkshire Terrier Puppy from Royal Canin
Editors' Pick
The Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy food is our pick for the best food for Yorkie puppies. This food is designed exclusively for Yorkies.
This food's kibble form and size are tailored to the needs of Yorkies, which means the kibble is small and easy for a Yorkie puppy to pick up. It's high in antioxidants and Omega fatty acids, making it ideal for a well-balanced diet.
Pros: Designed specifically for Yorkies.
Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids are present.
Gut health is important.
Antioxidants are present.
For small jaws, the ideal kibble size is
Cons: Animal by-products are present.
Runner-Up: Earthborn Holistic Puppy Vantage
The Earthborn Holistic Puppy Vantage is our second pick for the best Yorkie puppy food. This is a grain-free food that will suit any puppy breed.
This is a high-protein snack that contains both chicken and whitefish meals. The Omega fatty acids are added to the food by the whitefish.
Pros: \sGrain-free
DHA is a fat found in chicken and whitefish that is good for the brain and eyes.
Omega 6 and Omega 3 fatty acids are in a good equilibrium.
Calcium and phosphorus levels should be adequate.
Cons: For some dogs, the lack of grains may be too much.
3. Affordability of the American journey
We recommend the American Journey Lamb and Sweet Potato puppy food if you're seeking for a puppy meal that's a touch less expensive.
One of the best aspects of this meal is that it is free of major canine allergens including corn, wheat, and soy.
It's also a grain-free and gluten-free option. Deboned lamb is the first ingredient in this dish, followed by chicken and turkey.
Pros: \sGrain-free
There are no common allergies in this product.
Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are found in high-protein salmon oil and flaxseed.
Chickpeas and sweet potatoes are high in fiber.
Pros: High protein content, which can be difficult for puppies.
Yorkie Puppy Weight at 2 Months
Yorkies are such small dogs that you shouldn't anticipate them to be very heavy as puppies. Your Yorkie could weigh anything from 0.68 pounds to 2 pounds when he's two months old, depending on the dog.
Males and females have vastly different sizes, with females being somewhat smaller. Because no two dogs are exactly the same size and weight, the weight range will be influenced by the dog himself.
Weight of a 3-Month-Old Yorkie Puppy
When your Yorkie puppy is three months old, he should weigh between one and three pounds. The smallest puppies should be gaining weight at this point.
The tiniest of the litter will always be tiny, but they should grow and gain weight steadily as they follow their own growth curve.
The third month is a crucial time for puppies to mature, however, it is less noticeable in smaller breeds. They'll still require some additional meals.
Weight of a 4-Month-Old Yorkie Puppy
Your Yorkie puppy should weigh between 1.25 and 3.5 pounds at 4 months old. Depending on the sort of fur your puppy has, it may be difficult to detect if he is overweight.
Yorkies, despite their small stature and the modest amount of food they consume, will cheerfully overeat if given the chance.
To ensure that he is eating properly, keep him on a strict feeding schedule. You'll be able to keep track of his weight because you'll know exactly how much he's eating.
Weight of a 5-Month-Old Yorkie Puppy
You should expect your Yorkie to weigh anywhere between 1.5 and 4 pounds by the time he is 5 months old. Your puppy should have experienced a significant growth spurt recently.
If this occurs, you may need to increase the amount of food you give him to compensate for the lost calories. Maintain an even distribution of the quantity between meals, and only raise it slightly if necessary.
Yorkie Puppy Weight at 6 Months
The weight of a 6-month-old Yorkie puppy should be between 1.75 and 4.5 pounds. Remember that this breed rarely grows huge, so if your dog is on the lighter side of the spectrum, it's likely that you simply have a lighter dog.
You should be able to confirm with your veterinarian that your dog is staying on his own growth curve and that he is growing as well as he possibly can.
What If My Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Won’t Eat?
There could be several causes for your Yorkie's refusal to eat. This could be due to a change in food brands, a loss of appetite, or a stomach condition. In the long run, a lack of appetite might become a major problem.
This is due to the fact that a low weight might be harmful to smaller breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers. You should see a veterinarian as soon as possible.
You need to figure out why your Yorkie isn't eating before it becomes a serious health issue. Digestive issues, vomiting, and tooth infections are all common difficulties.
Should You Feed A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Supplement?
Supplements should be included in your Yorkie's diet, especially if his food isn't particularly nutrient-dense.
Various supplements, like as Vitamin E, Omega-3, and Omega-6 fatty acids, improve the coat of a Yorkie. Vitamin A is critical for a Yorkie's eye health, especially at night.
When a Yorkie's coat is lacking in nutrients, it may appear dull and flat. You might also notice that your dog is always afflicted with illnesses and skin irritations.
To keep your Yorkie puppy healthy and his coat bright and gorgeous, make sure you feed him plenty of vital fatty acids.
How Much Water Should A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy Drink?
If you want to figure out how much to feed your Yorkie puppy, consider his level of activity, health state, the amount of water in his daily diet, and the humidity in his environment.
The rule of thumb for toy breed dogs is roughly 1 to 1.5 ounces of water for every pound of body weight.
It is recommended that you remove your puppy's water bowl at night so that he has a consistent amount of water while being housetrained.
Creating A Consistent Feeding Schedule for Yorkshire Terriers
The easiest method to keep his nutrition as healthy as possible is to follow our Yorkie feeding chart suggestions.
This entails giving your dog the same amount of food at each meal and feeding him at the same time every day. You don't want to give him one meal one day and three the next.
This can cause problems with his digestion and make him hungry throughout the day.
Although Yorkies may not consume a lot of food, you should nevertheless measure out the food at each meal to ensure that he is getting enough. Never leave a full bowl of food out for the dog to devour all day.
Yorkshire Terrier Background Information
The Yorkshire Terrier, sometimes known as the Yorkie, appears to be pretty cocky, and why not? The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the most gorgeous ambassadors of the dog world, with his long silky coat and perky topknot sure to draw attention wherever he goes. Because he's so small, he frequently travels in elegance, accompanied by his adoring owner in customized dog purses.
Although the Yorkie's beautiful steel-blue and tan coat is his crowning glory, his personality is what genuinely endears him to his family. The Yorkshire Terrier is a large dog in a small body, always on the search for adventure and maybe even a little trouble, despite his small size (weighing no more than seven pounds).
Yorkshire Terriers are devoted toward their owners, as one would expect from a companion dog, yet they are cautious of strangers and will bark at unexpected sounds and intruders, as one would anticipate from a terrier. It's crucial to keep your dog's barking under control and teach them when and when not to bark out of concern for your neighbors.
They can also be hostile to unknown canines, and no squirrel is immune to their attacks.
Yorkshire Terriers, despite their confidence, have a tender side as well. They require a lot of attention and quality time with their loved ones. They don't like being left alone for long periods of time. Overprotecting your Yorkie, on the other hand, isn't a good idea; they'll pick up on your emotions fast, and if your behaviors indicate that the world is a hazardous place for them, they'll become neurotic.
Yorkshire Terriers perform better with older children who have been trained to appreciate them than with toddlers and little children due to their size. If startled or teased, they can become irritable.
Yorkies make great apartment dogs as long as they receive some activity every day, such as a fun play session in the living room or a pleasant walk around the block.
They'll get along with other resident dogs and cats no matter where they live, as long as they were raised with them. If a new pet is brought into the house, Yorkies may get protective of their owners. They may want to challenge the “intruder” since they are terriers, and if a fight breaks out, the terrier spirit will fight to the death. When introducing a Yorkie to a new animal, exercise extreme caution.
A glitzy coat, a petite frame, a fiery attitude, and unwavering loyalty to his people. Is it any surprise that Yorkshire Terriers are becoming America's second most popular dog breed?
Frequently Asked Question about How Much To Feed A Yorkshire Terrier Puppy
How much should my Yorkie puppy eat?
Yorkies should consume between 14 and 12 cups of food each day, or 150–200 calories. These calories should be spread out between two to four meals.
How much dry food should I feed my Yorkie?
Because there isn't much of a difference between the sexes, they should be fed the same quantity. Adult Yorkies should generally consume 1/4 to 1/2 cups of kibble each day, divided between two meals.
How much should a 3-month old Yorkie eat?
All of this being said, the average meal size for Yorkshire Terriers is quite tiny, especially when compared to larger dogs and certainly when compared to people. Yorkie puppies weighing 2 to 4 pounds (0.9 to 1.8 kg) and aged 3 to 12 months will only require 1/3 to 1/2 cup of food every DAY (not per meal).
How much should a Yorkie eat daily?
The amount suggested on the dog food packaging is only a guide; your dog may require more or less. In general, a Yorkshire Terrier consumes 14 to 12 cups of food each day. Adult dogs should eat twice daily, but puppies require 3 to 4 meals each day.
How many times a day does a Yorkie poop?
The majority of dogs poop between one and five times per day. Puppies and elderly dogs who consume tiny meals frequently may be on the higher end of the range. Depending on the nature of their problems, dogs with health problems may poop more or less.