The best dog treats for Yorkies are small, soft, and low-calorie, with lean proteins like chicken or turkey and dog-safe fruits and vegetables being the safest choices for training and rewards.
Yorkshire Terriers have tiny mouths and fast metabolisms, so choosing the right treat is more about size and texture than flavor. The key is finding treats that fit their small teeth, are easy to chew, and stay within their daily calorie budget.
What Makes a Treat Safe for a Yorkie?
The safest treats for Yorkies share three traits: small size, soft texture, and low calorie density. Soft, pea-sized pieces are ideal. Freeze-dried liver, chicken-based training treats, and soft mini bites are popular, high-value options that break apart easily and are small enough for a tiny mouth.
Best Human Foods for Yorkie Treats
Plain, unseasoned lean proteins and dog-safe fruits and vegetables make some of the healthiest treats. Cooked chicken breast, turkey, salmon, or whitefish are excellent low-calorie choices. Blueberries, chopped apples (without seeds or core), carrots, green beans, sweet potato, and pumpkin are also safe when cut into very small pieces. Plain yogurt, cottage cheese, and scrambled eggs can be occasional treats but must be fed in strict moderation.
For homemade baked treats, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), mix simple dog-safe ingredients, form into small balls or mini-muffin portions, bake until firm, and cool completely before serving. This lets you control exactly what goes in.
| Treat Type | Examples | Serving Note |
|---|---|---|
| Lean Meats | Chicken, turkey, salmon, whitefish | Plain, unseasoned; cooked fully |
| Fruits | Blueberries, chopped apples, bananas, raspberries | Remove seeds and cores; cut to pea size |
| Vegetables | Carrots, green beans, sweet potato, pumpkin | Cooked soft or finely chopped for safety |
| Dairy & Eggs | Plain yogurt, cottage cheese, scrambled eggs | Low-fat versions only; occasional use |
How Many Treats Can a Yorkie Have Per Day?
The standard rule is that treats should make up no more than 10% of a Yorkie’s daily calories. The AKC’s guidance on dog treats reinforces this 10% rule and emphasizes choosing treats that match a dog’s size and dietary needs.
Because Yorkies are prone to overeating and weight gain, break treats into confetti-sized or pea-sized pieces. This makes a single treat last through several training repetitions without blowing the calorie budget. If you want specific product picks, our tested roundup of dog treats for Yorkies covers the top soft, small-breed-safe options available.
Foods to Avoid and Safety Rules
A few common human foods are dangerous for Yorkies and must never be given. Always check ingredient labels carefully.
Introduce any new treat gradually. Start with a piece no larger than a grain of rice, then wait 24 hours to watch for signs of allergic reaction or tummy trouble. Supervise treat time to prevent choking, and never let treats replace a balanced, nutritionally complete dog food diet.
FAQs
Can Yorkies have peanut butter?
Yes, but only plain peanut butter that contains no xylitol sweetener. Offer a tiny smear—roughly the size of a pea—as an occasional treat, since peanut butter is high in fat and calories.
Are store-bought training treats safe for Yorkies?
Yes, as long as they are soft, small, and labeled for small or toy breeds. Look for limited-ingredient treats with a named meat first and no artificial preservatives or added sugars.
What’s the best treat for a Yorkie puppy?
Soft, pea-sized training treats that are low in calories work best for puppies. Freeze-dried liver or chicken bits are high-value for motivating young Yorkies during house training and basic commands.
References & Sources
- American Kennel Club. “Best Dog Treats” Covers treat selection guidelines, the 10% rule, and safety advice for dogs of all sizes.