5 Best Food For Yorkies With Sensitive Stomachs

Yorkie owners know how lively, active, and bossy their hounds can be. Yorkies are also tremendously kind and loving, so seeing your adorable baby stumbling in pain because he or she can’t eat and digest nearly anything can be upsetting.

They may be tiny creatures, but a delicate tummy for them is a serious issue. If not managed right away, they will suffer from other health complications, which can shorten their life. That’s why; you should feed them the best food for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs that have a high nutritional content.

It should be whole and balanced and ensure its first ingredient is meat. Avoid choosing foods that are loaded with gluten, wheat, soy, corn, artificial colors, artificial flavors, fillers, by-product meals, and preservatives.

All these ingredients can irritate their delicate tummy, and they also don’t have much dietary value. Additionally, it should be inspected and approved by USDA.

As there are many dog foods available out there, it can be challenging for you to pick the right one for your canine. To help you out, we have reviewed 5 vet-recommended foods for Yorkie dogs with sensitive stomachs that are easy to digest, prevent diarrhea and vomiting, and defend their gut.

We have also designed a guide to provide you with detailed information about your mutt’s sensitive abdomen, including ingredients to look for, ingredients to avoid, major causes and signs of a sensitive stomach, and much more.  

List of Best Food For Yorkies With Sensitive Stomachs

How Much Should An Adult Yorkie With Sensitive Stomach Eat?

Various factors impact the right feeding amount, so you can be certain to provide him with the most accurate serving size possible.

Males VS Females

There is not a massive difference between both sexes, so you can feed them similar percentages of food. In general, mature Yorkies should eat at least ¼ to ½ cup of dry food every day, divided into two meals. 

Spayed Or Neutered

Spying or neutering has a significant effect on a hound’s metabolism. Though, this effect does not apply to Yorkies because of their smaller size. Therefore, a fixed and unaltered Yorkie should be fed the same percentage of the best dog food.

You should feed them ½ cup twice a day, provided that they are not gaining or losing weight or experiencing any other problems that would require changing their portion sizes. 

Active Or Inactive Lifestyle

No matter how much active lifestyle your canine has, he won’t require a substantial increase in portion size over the suggested quantity. However, if he has an inactive lifestyle, you can reduce his portion size to prevent overweight.

If they are not gaining or losing weight, you should modify how much they eat. If your dog just sits around the house all day, you should give him ¼ cup of dry food two times a day. However, if your dog is very active, you should provide him with ½ cup of kibble twice a day. 

Pregnant Or Nursing Dogs

Pregnant and nursing bitches require more calories than normal dogs. As a dog owner, it is your obligation to ensure she is acquiring the proper nutrition.

We would advise you to transition her back to the puppy recipe as it is overloaded with nutrients than adult formulas.

Also, you can free-feed them, so make sure to keep their dish full all the time. Nonetheless, it is vital to change the food daily rather than just topping it off.   

How Much To Feed An Adult Teacup Yorkie With A Fragile Tummy?

You can feed them 1/3 to 1/2 cup twice or thrice a day. In this way, he will be aware of how much to eat every time and stop eating when he is full.

Bear in mind, the best food for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs travels through these tiny pups very quickly, so you should give them plenty of bathroom walks.

How Much To Feed A Yorkie With A Delicate Tummy? Yorkie Feeding Chart

Puppy
Age	Weight	Amount Per Day
Newborn	0 To ½ Lbs	Nursing
5 To 6 Weeks	½ To 1 ½ Lbs	Nursing Or Free Feed Mash Of Dry And Wet Food
2 To 4 Months	1 ½ To 3 Lbs	Free Feed Or 200 Calories Of Dry Food
5 To 9 Months	3 To 5+ Lbs	175 To 200 Calories Over 3 To 4 Meals
Adult
Adult	5 To 7 Lbs	150 To 175 Calories Over 2 To 3 Meals
Senior	5 To 7 Lbs	135 To 175 Calories Over 2 To 3 Meals

What To Feed A Yorkie With An Upset Stomach To Make Him Feel Better?

Sometimes a sudden transformation in diet can upset their tummy. Overeating at Thanksgiving or Christmas can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, etc. These problems will resolve themselves swiftly.

Nevertheless, if the signs of tummy upset last for more than 48 hours, take him to the vet immediately. While your sick dog is in the recovery process, you can feed him the following things to help him feel better:

Let Him Eat Grass

The grass is considered the cake of canines. When your mutt feels unwell, you can try this instinctual remedy. It may cause him to vomit, but that’s totally fine.

However, make sure they are drinking enough water to stay well hydrated. If he vomits multiple times or continuously eats grass and vomits when he goes outside, take him to the vet.

Ensure They Are Hydrated

Lift their lips and examine their gums. The gums should be pink and wet. If you are unsure, press his gums until you observe the color alter.

Now, take your finger away and check how long it takes for the color to come back. The color should come back promptly. If it takes some time, it means he is dehydrated.

Don’t Feed Them Anything.

If he has nausea or gas, he may refuse to eat anything. This condition should not bother you in the short term.

It is fine if they don’t eat solid food for 48 hours, but they must drink water to survive. However, if they refuse to eat after 48 hours, call the vet as soon as possible.

Feed Simple Food

The dry food may be too nutritious for them when they are suffering from diarrhea or other stomach-related issues. Therefore, you should serve them boiled shredded chicken with white rice.

You can also feed them mashed pumpkin. Remember, they should be fed small amounts of food at a time, rather than a large meal. If they show interest in food, it is an excellent indication.

However, if they don’t look eager, offer them chicken broth without salt to encourage them to eat a tad bit. Whether you give them chicken broth or boiled chicken, add some water to it to prevent dehydration.

How Often Should You Feed A Yorkie With A Sensitive Tummy?

Vets recommend feeding them twice a day. But, if you want, you can feed them thrice a day as well. Bear in mind that Yorkies have a small stomach, so his meals should be spaced out throughout the day.

Look at the food packaging to know how much to feed an adult dog. If you feed him homemade food, this food is caloric-dense, so your pooch should be fed less than the recommended amount of kibble.

In maturity, you will be aware of his activity levels and will be able to change his diet consequently. If he has dental issues, you should switch him to wet food.

Some adults and seniors start losing teeth, so it becomes difficult for them to chew dry kibble. With growing age, their metabolism slows down. Thus, if your senior Yorkie has an inactive lifestyle, cut down his calories by 20% to prevent obesity.

What Should You Do If Your Yorkie Won’t Eat His Food?

If your mutt refuses to eat the best dog food, there may be various reasons such as modification of food formulas or companies, stomach issues, or lack of hunger. Lack of appetite can become a serious problem in the long run.

Low weight could be dangerous for Yorkies, so you should consult with the vet immediately. You need to determine why he is refusing to consume his food before the state turns into an irreversible health issue. Major health problems include vomiting, stomach issues, and many more.  

How Much Water Should Yorkies With Sensitive Stomachs Drink? 

The answer to this query depends on various factors such as:

• Health condition
• Amount of water present in his food
• Humidity in the environment
• Activity level

As a rule of thumb, Yorkies should drink a maximum of 1 to 1.5 ounces of freshwater for every pound of their body weight. At night, it is recommended to remove their water bowl.

It may not seem like too much amount of water, but since they are so tiny, it is impeccable for them. Here is how much water they should drink according to their weight:

Yorkie Dog Weight (In Pounds)	Total Amount Of Water (In Ounces)
1	1 To 1.5
2	2 To 3
3	3 To 4.5
4	4 To 6
5	5 To 7.5
6	6 To 9

Remember, dehydration is not good for toy breed dogs with fragile tummies. When they don’t drink enough water, it becomes challenging for them to concentrate and listen to your instructions. Also, they can suffer from constipation, skin dryness, muscle pain, bad breath, and many other problems.  

5 Best Food For Yorkies With Sensitive Stomachs

1. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

This adult dog food is manufactured in the United States using reliable global sources. It is specifically formulated for miniature and small breed dogs to support better digestive health. The easy-to-digest dry kibble is made of natural ingredients and has chicken as its first ingredient and protein source. It not only nourishes their skin but also delivers clinically proven antioxidants that are favorable for tiny dogs.

Moreover, this tasty recipe vaunts vitamin E, omega 6 fatty acids, and other vital nutrients to promote healthy skin and coat. DHA is also present to support cognitive and eye development. Vets recommend it because it does not contain artificial flavors, colors, or additives.

Ingredients

• Protein 26%: Important for the growth and repair of tissues.
• Fat 15.9%: Stores energy in the dog’s body.
• Crude Fiber 1.3%: Softens the stools.
• Omega 6 Fatty Acids 4.57%: Essential for proper brain function.

Our Verdict

If your Yorkie has terrible skin issues, then you must give a try Hill’s Science Diet dry dog food for sensitive stomachs. This highly digestible dry kibble is gentle on their bellies, improves their skin health, and promotes lustrous fur. 

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2. Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food

The Hill’s Science diet dry kibble is exclusively crafted for boosted peptic health and healthy skin. It utilizes prebiotic fiber to promote gut bacteria and is highly digestible for enhanced nutrient absorption. Besides, it supports a stable microbiome. This affordable and delicious dry food is made with natural ingredients with additional minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, amino acids, and other nutrients.

Omega 6 fatty acids and vitamin E are integrated into it to nourish your beloved dog’s skin and help maintain a shiny and thicker coat. The small kibble is designed with tiny jaws and mouths in mind. Chicken is its first ingredient and fundamental protein source. Furthermore, it does not include artificial flavors, colors, by-product meals, and preservatives.

Ingredients

• Fat 15.9%: Provides insulation from temperature extremes.
• Crude Fiber 1.3%: Enhances fecal bulk. 
• Vitamin C 217 PPM: Required for tissue growth and maintenance.

Our Verdict

As a dog owner, if you want to help your mutt have a healthy stomach, immune system, and skin, then you must purchase this formula. The best dog food is designed to promote skin and digestive health.

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3. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach

Keep your Yorkie feeling and looking his best with Purina Pro plan sensitive skin and stomach dry dog food for a small breed. This great quality and small-sized kibble boast salmon as its first ingredient and protein source. We liked it because the brand has carefully hand-picked superior quality ingredients for a specific dietary or functional purpose.

Oatmeal is also present in it that is very gentle on sensitive tummies. Moreover, natural prebiotic fiber has been inserted into it that fuels gut bacteria for increased gastric health. This mouthwatering formula is prepared without wheat, soy, gluten, corn, by-product meals, and preservatives. To support their overall health and wellbeing, 23 vital minerals and vitamins are incorporated into it, so you can be certain that your Yorkies with sensitive stomachs are obtaining the specific nutrition they require.

Ingredients

• Crude Protein 28%: Critical for hormone generation.
• Crude Fat 17%: Contributes to the consistency of the dog food.
• Vitamin A 15,000 IU/KG: Supports eyesight and bone development.

Our Verdict

If your canine has extremely sensitive skin and he reacts to almost everything, then the Purina Pro plan sensitive stomach and skin dry dog food is a fantastic option for you. This protein-dense dry kibble is fortified with prebiotic fiber and live probiotics for digestive and immune system health. 

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4. Solid Gold – Mighty Mini with Sensitive Stomach 

Solid gold is the best food for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs. This natural, grain-free, and gluten-free dry kibble is anticipated for toy and small breed doggies of all life stages, including growing pups, grownups, and seniors. The small-sized kibble delivers easy chewing for miniature canines.

It has well-adjusted levels of fat, fiber, and fat customized to the individual dietary requirements of dogs. Besides, this recipe features highly digestible turkey, veggies, and lentils to boost digestion and cardiovascular health. It includes prebiotics and probiotics for optimal digestive and gut health.

Ingredients

• Protein 30%: Maintains fluid balance. 
• Fat 18%: Dogs need it to fuel their muscles. 
• Fiber 4%: Keeps the appetite and blood sugar levels in check. 

Our Verdict

Solid gold grain-free holistic dry dog food for toys and small breeds of all life stages contains omega fatty acids to support skin, coat, and immune system health. Also, it features whole superfoods like carrots, blueberries, and pumpkins that provide antioxidants and fiber to aid digestion and help your Yorkie thrive. 

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5. Purina ONE SmartBlend Natural Sensitive Systems

This crunchy dry kibble by Purina One is packed with vitamin E and omega fatty acids to nurture the dull coat and irritated skin. Its number 1 ingredient is salmon, which is a remarkable source of protein for forming strong muscles and glucosamine for optimal joint health.

It has rice flour, which is great for Yorkie dogs with sensitive stomachs because it is very easy to digest and kind on the abdomen. Also, it features corn gluten meal that supports edible foods by increasing they are with great amino acid and protein levels.

We have also been feeding it to our 14 months old Yorkie dog that has ultra-sensitive skin and stomach for the last 4 months, and we have definitely observed the difference. His coat has become thick, and glossy and he is playing more and itching less. Also, he goes to the bathroom only once a day and has normal, consistently well-formed stools.

Ingredients

• Protein 26%: Offers their body a structural framework.
• Fat 16%: Stores energy and protects organs.
• Fiber 3%: Keeps the digestive system healthy.
• Glucosamine 350 PPM: Nourishes tissues in joint linings. 

Our Verdict

Are you looking for a cost-effective dry food that has real salmon as its #1 ingredient? Then, Purina ONE smart blend natural sensitive systems dry kibble is an ideal option for you. It is rich in protein to support your cutie pie’s sturdy muscles and vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids to support skin and fur health.

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How To Pick The Best Food For Yorkies With Sensitive Stomachs?

(Buying Guide)

If you are going to buy food for your dog with a delicate tummy, you need to look for the following things:

Protein Source             

The protein source of the food is the biggest cause of stomach sensitivity in mutts. That’s why; you should look for easy-to-digest protein ingredients such as eggs, fish, and chicken.

According to USDA, eggs, and chicken are the most digestible protein sources. But, make sure he is not allergic to chicken. Besides, fish is an outstanding source of omega fatty acids, minerals, and iodine.

We would advise you to purchase the best dog food with lower levels of protein because it can aid your dog’s gastrointestinal system to function efficiently.

The large levels of protein will make your dog’s stomach work more to digest them. If he struggles to digest proteins, select food with a single source of protein.

Buy “Complete And Balanced” Food

While shopping for Yorkie food, look for a “complete and balanced” label. The meaning of this label is that the food is reviewed by the Association of American Feed Control Officials and other government institutions.

The comprehensive and balanced food will contain the appropriate levels of essential nutrients for Yorkies.

Avoid Chemicals, Preservatives, And Processed Ingredients

You should avoid food that has chemical preservatives such as BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin because they are illegal to use in food and are considered poisonous.

Artificial colors and flavors are most commonly used in dog treats and foods, but they have zero nutritional value. Furthermore, you should avoid food that features corn syrup, animal by-products, and rendered fat.

Limited Ingredients

The limited ingredient foods are very easy to digest, help with abdominal problems, increase body weight, and make the pooch feel better. When you feed him food with fewer ingredients, you will be able to observe an alteration in his digestion.

Undoubtedly, they still require a whole and well-adjusted diet, so don’t limit their diet excessively, but if you remove non-nutritional ingredients and artificial colors and flavors, it may improve their digestion.  

No Grains

Grains have gluten, so it is difficult for some dogs to digest them. These grains include soy, corn, and wheat. If your hound struggles to digest these, you will need to feed them a grain-free diet.

Fortunately, the market is filled with grain-free formulas for small breeds, so you can easily pick any one of them.

Probiotics And Prebiotics

Probiotics and prebiotics can improve his digestive health. They ensure that the good and bad bacteria are balanced in their gut.

So, a food that has probiotics and prebiotics can be terrific for dealing with stomach sensitivity. A high-fiber food can also help in hardening their stools.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which Foods Should I Avoid Feeding My Yorkie With A Sensitive Stomach?

You should avoid feeding them:

• Chocolate
• Raisins
• Grapes
• Macadamia nuts
• Caffeine
• Broccoli
• Bones
• Onion
• Garlic
• Dairy products

2. What Are The Major Causes Of Sensitive Stomach In Yorkies?

If your pet is unexpectedly experiencing symptoms of delicate tummy, the following could be blamed:

• Bacterial infection
• Genetics
• Difficult to digest food
• Worms
• Motion sickness

3. What Are The Signs Of Stomach Upset In Yorkies?

• Lack of hunger
• Excessive gas
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Bloody or loose stools
• Skin irritation
• Weakness

4. Is It A Good Idea To Give Yorkie Dogs With Sensitive Stomach Supplements?

You should feed them supplements, especially if their food is not loaded with all essential nutrients. To make their fur thicker and shinier, you should feed supplements of vitamin E and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

Vitamin A can help maintain their eyesight. Nutritional deficiency can make their fur look dull. You will also notice that he frequently suffers from irritations and infections. You must provide them with a sufficient quantity of fatty acids and vitamins to help them stay healthy and to make their coat smooth and glossy.

5. Should I Free Feed My Yorkie With A Delicate Abdomen?

Some pet parents free-feed their canines, which means the food will be available 24/7. Feed-feeding can work well in small houses but can fail badly in bigger houses. Also, it could lead to obesity.

Therefore, it is better to feed your doggie two to three times every day. Furthermore, keep an eye on him closely and see if he eats the whole food or not. In this way; you will be able to know whether you are providing him adequate food for his age and energy disbursements.   

6. Why Do The Majority Of Yorkies Have Sensitive Stomachs?

Vets are unsure why these babies have delicate bellies, but it might probably have some connection with being a lightweight mutt in general. Tiny hounds have a small surface region in their abdomens.

Being underweight or overweight or served food that is packed with preservatives and artificial flavors can make this issue worse.

7. What Should You Do If Your Yorkie Consumed Something Hazardous?

All dog breeds, to some degree, have sensitive tummies, but Yorkshire terrier dogs are much more delicate than others. That’s why; you should keep a strict eye on them to prevent them from eating something they should not.

If they eat something dangerous, you might need to give them 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide for every 20 lbs of body weight. However, use hydrogen peroxide only if he has swallowed a huge amount of dangerous food such as chocolate.

8. Can I Feed Ginger And White Rice To My Yorkie With A Stomach Upset?

Yes, you can serve him ginger and white rice to help settle his stomach. Pair white rice with chicken and ginger with canned pumpkin to conciliate the vomiting or diarrhea of your pet.

9. Can Pepto Bismol Help Sooth My Yorkie Dog’s Upset Stomach?

Some dog parents have witnessed positive outcomes with it, but we would recommend you to consult with the vet first to avoid health problems on your hound.  

10. Why Does My Yorkie Seems Hungry Even After Eating His Food?

Yorkies can’t eat a large amount of food at once and are bad at regulating their caloric consumption, so you should provide them strictly portion-controlled meals twice or thrice a day.

They belong to a working terrier line, so they should not sit empty the whole day. You should offer them enough opportunities to explore their surroundings, perform physical activities, and play to prevent them from becoming excessively obsessed with their next meal.

Moreover, it is good to give them low-calorie treats between servings. It will help him feel full without overeating. If he continues to feel very hungry, you should take him to a vet. 

Conclusion

The best food for Yorkies with sensitive stomachs will help soothe the troubles of your four-legged companion. They don’t include hard-to-digest ingredients, preservatives, and unnecessary additives, so they promote improved breakdown and digestion.

Besides, they are packed with nutrients, so you will be confident that his dietary requirements are being met. No matter which food you pick for your delicate furry fellow, make sure to make the shift slowly.  

References:

• http://www.animalplanet.com/pets/dog-food-how-to-know-if-dog-sensitive-stomach/
• https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Dog-upset-stomach-home-remedy
• http://www.yorkieinfocenter.com/yorkshire-terrier-vomiting-issues
• https://thedogtale.com/yorkie-diarrhea/
• https://www.greatpetcare.com/dog-nutrition/bland-diet-for-dogs/