Yorkshire Terriers are notorious for being fussy eaters. The right food—small kibble, appealing flavor and texture, and quality ingredients—can make a big difference. This guide covers what to look for, top picks with direct Amazon links, and simple tips to encourage your picky Yorkie to eat without giving in to unhealthy habits.
Last updated: February 2026 · Reading time: ~8 min
Quick Answer
For picky Yorkies, choose a small-breed formula with small kibble and high-quality protein (e.g. chicken, turkey) as the first ingredient. Many picky dogs do well with Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws, Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult, or small-breed formulas from trusted brands. If your Yorkie has a sensitive stomach, pick a formula suited to that. Offer meals at set times; avoid free-feeding all day or constantly switching foods, which can make pickiness worse. Below are specific products and feeding tips.
Why Yorkies Are Picky
Small breeds often have strong preferences for texture, smell, and taste. Yorkies may turn up their noses at large kibble, cold or bland food, or sudden changes. Health issues (dental pain, sensitive stomach, illness) can also reduce appetite—rule those out with a vet if eating drops off. Once medical causes are cleared, the right food and routine usually help.
What to Look For
| Factor | Why it helps |
|---|---|
| Small kibble | Fits small mouths and is easier to chew. |
| Named protein first | Chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish as #1 ingredient supports palatability and nutrition. |
| Small-breed formula | Often higher in calories per cup and tailored to toy breeds. |
| Consistent routine | Set meal times (e.g. 2–3 per day); pick up uneaten food after 15–20 minutes. |
| Limited variety hopping | Switching foods constantly can encourage holding out for “something better.” |
Top Picks for Picky Yorkies
1. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult (Chicken & Rice)
Small kibble for small breeds; chicken meal and rice. Formulated for easy digestion and lean muscle. Widely recommended by vets. Some dogs need a gradual transition to accept a new food.
Check price: Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult on Amazon
2. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult
Breed-specific kibble shaped for a Yorkie’s jaw. Omega-3 and -6 and biotin for coat; targeted nutrients for toy breeds. Contains chicken by-product meal; some owners prefer a different protein source. Worth trying for stubborn picky eaters who like the shape and formula.
Check price: Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult on Amazon
3. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy
For puppies; small kibble and nutrients for growth and immune support. Good option if your picky eater is a puppy and you want a breed-specific formula.
Check price: Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Puppy on Amazon
4. Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Puppy (Chicken, Barley & Rice)
Small-breed puppy formula; DHA for brain and eye development, small kibble. Useful for picky Yorkie puppies.
Check price: Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Puppy on Amazon
5. Adding Variety (Wet or Toppers)
Some picky Yorkies eat better when a small amount of wet food or a topper is mixed with kibble. Don’t let them learn to hold out for only wet food; keep the base as kibble and use wet as a small, consistent add-in so they don’t refuse kibble alone.
Check price: Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws wet options on Amazon
Feeding Tips for Picky Eaters
- Set meal times. Offer food for 15–20 minutes, then remove it. No grazing all day.
- Don’t reward refusal. If they don’t eat, don’t replace with people food or a different food right away; offer the same meal at the next scheduled time.
- Transition slowly. When changing foods, mix old and new over 7–10 days to avoid upset stomach and refusal.
- Check temperature. Some dogs prefer room-temperature or slightly warmed food (heat briefly, don’t make it hot).
- Quiet, calm spot. Feed in a low-traffic area so they’re not distracted or stressed.
- Rule out illness. If appetite drops suddenly or they lose weight, see the vet.
When Picky Becomes a Problem
If your Yorkie skips meals often, loses weight, or only eats one type of food and you’re worried about nutrition, get a vet check. Dental disease, sensitive stomach, or other issues may need to be addressed. The vet can also suggest a prescription or over-the-counter diet if needed.
For dogs with digestive issues, see best food for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs. For puppies, see puppy food for Yorkie poo and bringing home a Yorkie puppy.
This article contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Looking for a Responsible Breeder?
Find health-tested Yorkies from vetted breeders who prioritize temperament.
Browse Verified Breeders →This article is for general guidance only. For diet and health concerns, consult your veterinarian.