A menu for every age
Needs change over time
Puppy : Split meals, mini growth diet and close monitoring of weight and appetite.
Adult : Measured ration in 2 meals per day with a formula adapted to active small dogs.
Senior : Adjust energy intake, support digestion and monitor muscle mass and dental health.
Which food?
Kibble, wet food, or home-cooked diet?
A premium diet for a small or very small dog, formulated according to age and activity level, generally suits the Yorkshire Terrier well. Small-sized kibble encourages food intake, while a wet portion can be useful for picky dogs, provided the overall balance of the ration is maintained.
Amounts
How much should you give?
Quantities vary depending on actual weight, age, neutering/spaying and activity. For this small dog, the ideal is to weigh the ration and adjust gradually by observing the silhouette, appetite and changes in weight.
| Weight | Daily amount | Meals/day |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kg | 35 - 50 g | 2 - 3 |
| 3 kg | 45 - 60 g | 2 |
Change
Managing the food transition
Any change in diet must be gradual over several days in order to limit digestive upsets. Switching too quickly from one formula to another can cause loose stools, food refusal or discomfort.
Hydration
Water: do not overlook it
Clean, fresh water must remain available at all times. Small dogs become dehydrated faster than one might imagine, especially in hot weather, when traveling, or in the case of an exclusively dry diet.
Little extras
Treats, in moderation
Treats should remain occasional and suited to its miniature size. It is better to favor very small rewards and incorporate them into the daily ration to avoid any unnecessary weight gain.
Good habits
For a top-notch bowl
- Weigh the daily ration instead of estimating it by eye.
- Split meals for the smallest or most sensitive individuals.
- Choose kibble suited to a miniature jaw.
- Reduce the ration if activity decreases after sterilization.
Never give
As with other dogs, you should avoid chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, avocado, alcohol, xylitol and cooked bones, which can cause severe digestive disorders, poisoning or potentially life-threatening complications.
