Many Yorkies prefer soft or wet food—easier to chew, higher moisture, and often more palatable for small or picky eaters. This guide covers what to look for in a soft diet, how much to feed, and top picks across life stages.
Last updated: January 2026 · Reading time: ~9 min
Quick Answer
The best soft dog food for a Yorkie is a complete, AAFCO-approved formula with a named meat source first, appropriate for the dog’s life stage, and fed in portion-controlled amounts. Strong options include Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult (breed-specific), Cesar Home Delights (variety, small trays), Wellness CORE Grain-Free (high protein, grain-free), Blue Buffalo Homestyle (senior-friendly), and Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight (weight management). Serve as meal or topper; transition over 7–10 days when switching foods.
Why Soft or Wet Food for Yorkies?
Yorkies have small jaws and can be picky or reluctant to chew hard kibble. Soft and wet foods:
- Easier to chew for seniors or dogs with dental issues
- Higher moisture for hydration, especially if they don’t drink much
- Often more palatable for finicky eaters
- Useful for hiding medication or for recovery
Dry kibble is still a valid choice; the “best” option depends on your dog’s preference, teeth, and any vet recommendations (e.g. kidney, weight, or allergy diets).
What to Look For in Your Yorkie’s Food
| Factor | What to choose |
|---|---|
| Protein | Named animal protein (chicken, beef, lamb, etc.) in the first ingredients; avoid vague “meat” or heavy reliance on by-products. |
| Carbs | Whole sources (rice, barley, sweet potato, oatmeal) when present; many dogs tolerate these. Avoid corn/soy if your Yorkie is sensitive. |
| Fats | Omega fatty acids (e.g. fish oil) support skin and coat. |
| AAFCO | Statement that the food meets AAFCO nutrient profiles for the correct life stage (growth, adult, senior). |
| Portion control | Small breeds gain weight easily; follow label or vet guidance and split into 2–3 meals. |
Ingredients to avoid or limit: Artificial colors and flavors, rendered fat of unknown origin, and high amounts of low-quality by-products or corn as main fillers.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Key Features | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult | Loaf in gravy, omega-3/6, biotin, breed-specific | Adult Yorkies 10+ months | $$ |
| Cesar Home Delights | Variety pack, real meat, small trays, AAFCO maintenance | Picky eaters, variety | $ |
| Wellness CORE Grain-Free | High protein, no artificials, grain-free, superfoods | Grain-free preference | $$ |
| Blue Buffalo Homestyle | Real chicken/beef, glucosamine/chondroitin, no by-product meal | Seniors, hiding medication | $-$$ |
| Hill's Science Diet Perfect Weight | Weight management, prebiotic fiber, vet-recommended | Weight management | $$ |
Yorkshire Terrier Feeding Basics
- Puppies: Small, frequent meals (e.g. 4x daily) to avoid hypoglycemia; total about 1/4–1/2 cup per day depending on size and activity.
- Adults: Often 150–200 calories per day; split into 2–3 meals.
- Seniors: Lower calories (e.g. ~100–150) and possibly a senior or weight-management formula if advised by your vet.
Calorie needs vary with activity and metabolism; your vet can tailor amounts.
Top Soft / Wet Food Picks for Yorkies
1. Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult (Loaf in Gravy)
- Best for: Adult Yorkies 10+ months; breed-specific formulation.
- Highlights: Loaf in gravy texture, omega-3/6 and biotin for coat, complete and balanced; can be fed alone or with Royal Canin Yorkie dry.
- Form: 3 oz pouches, case of 12.
- Check price: Amazon · Chewy (search “Royal Canin Yorkshire Terrier Adult wet”).
2. Cesar Home Delights (Variety Pack)
- Best for: Picky eaters; variety of flavors and easy peel trays.
- Highlights: Chicken & vegetables and beef stew options, real meat, AAFCO maintenance, small trays.
- Form: 3.5 oz trays.
- Note: Some formulas contain artificial flavors; check the label if your dog has sensitivities.
3. Wellness CORE Grain-Free (Beef, Venison & Lamb)
- Best for: Grain-free preference; high protein, natural ingredients.
- Highlights: Grain-free, no artificial colors/flavors/preservatives, protein-rich, superfoods.
- Form: 12.5 oz cans, case of 12.
- Check price: Amazon · Chewy (search “Wellness CORE grain-free wet”).
4. Blue Buffalo Homestyle (Chicken & Beef)
- Best for: Seniors; easy to eat and hide medication.
- Highlights: No poultry by-product meal, corn, wheat, or soy; real chicken/beef, vitamins, glucosamine/chondroitin for joints.
- Form: 12.5 oz cans, case of 6.
- Check price: Amazon · Chewy (search “Blue Buffalo Homestyle wet”).
5. Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight (Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew)
- Best for: Weight management; vet-recommended.
- Highlights: Supports healthy weight, prebiotic fiber, balanced nutrition; 10+ months.
- Form: Canned stew.
- Check price: Amazon · Chewy (search “Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight wet”).
For sensitive stomachs, choose a limited-ingredient or vet diet and transition slowly.
Are These Foods Suitable for All Life Stages?
The options above include adult and weight-management formulas. Puppies need a growth formula (AAFCO for growth); seniors may need a senior or kidney formula. Always match the product to your dog’s life stage and any vet recommendations.
Common Questions
Can I mix wet and dry food?
Yes. Mixing a small amount of wet food with kibble can increase palatability and moisture. Keep total daily calories in check to avoid weight gain.
How much soft food should I give?
Follow the label for the dog’s weight and life stage, or your vet’s recommendation. Small breeds like Yorkies often do best with 2–3 small meals per day.
Does wet food need to be refrigerated after opening?
Yes. Opened cans or trays should be covered and refrigerated and used within a few days (check the package). Unopened, store in a cool, dry place.
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Browse Verified Breeders →This article is for general guidance only. It is not a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your vet for diet and portion recommendations.