Can Yorkies Eat Salmon?

If you have a Yorkie, you probably want the best for your dog. On the other hand, it can be hard to tell what foods are safe for them to eat. One question that often comes up is: can Yorkies eat salmon?.

The short answer is yes Yorkies can eat salmon in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Salmon is a lean source of protein that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats support skin and coat health benefit the immune system, and reduce inflammation.

However, there are some important things to consider before feeding salmon to your Yorkie In this article, we’ll cover

• The benefits of salmon for Yorkies
• How to prepare salmon for your dog
• How much salmon to feed your Yorkie
• Safety precautions and risks of feeding salmon

Why Salmon is Good for Yorkies

There are several reasons why salmon can be a healthy addition to your Yorkie’s diet:

• Great Source of Protein—Salmon is high in protein and has all 10 of the essential amino acids that dogs need. Yorkies need ample protein to maintain lean muscle mass.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Salmon is rich in anti-inflammatory omega-3s that promote skin/coat health and support the immune system. Yorkies can benefit from these healthy fats.

• Promotes Brain Development – The omega-3 DHA found in salmon supports cognitive function and brain development in puppies

• Boosts Energy – The protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients in salmon provide sustainable energy for active little Yorkies.

• Supports Heart Health – Salmon provides nutrients that benefit cardiac health, including protein, omega-3s, potassium, and B vitamins.

So in moderation, salmon can be a nutritious addition to a balanced Yorkie diet. Let’s look at how to feed it safely.

How to Prepare Salmon for Your Yorkie

When preparing salmon for your Yorkie, proper handling and cooking are crucial to avoid potential health risks:

• Choose Wild-Caught Salmon – Farmed salmon may contain antibiotics and other contaminants. Wild salmon has higher omega-3 levels as well.

• Avoid Raw Salmon – Raw salmon may contain parasites that can make dogs very sick. Cook salmon thoroughly before feeding.

• Remove All Bones – Salmon bones are small, brittle, and can pose a major choking hazard or injure your Yorkie internally.

• Cook Plain – Avoid added oils, butter, seasonings, garlic, onion, salt. These can upset your Yorkie’s stomach.

• Cut into Bite-Size Pieces – Cut the salmon into small, manageable bites for your tiny Yorkie.

Following these preparation tips will make salmon safe and digestible for your pup.

How Much Salmon Can Yorkies Eat?

When feeding any new food, it’s best to start with small amounts and increase slowly. Follow these salmon feeding guidelines for Yorkies:

• Puppies – No more than 1-2 ounces of cooked salmon per day.

• Adults – Feed a 3-5 pound Yorkie 1-3 ounces of salmon 1-2 times per week. Adjust amounts based on your Yorkie’s size and activity level.

• Large Breeds – For Yorkies over 7 pounds, limit salmon to 2 or 3 portions per week. Feed more based on their individual needs.

• Seniors – Give salmon no more than 1-2 times per week in age-appropriate portions. Check with your vet.

Stick within these amounts to prevent gastrointestinal upset. Always supervise your Yorkie when offering salmon or any new food.

Safety Precautions When Feeding Salmon

While salmon can be a healthy treat for Yorkies, there are some important safety considerations:

• Allergies – Yorkies with fish or salmon allergies should avoid it completely. Allergic reactions can be severe.

• Mercury – Some fish contain high mercury levels. Salmon is generally low, but avoid feeding it excessively.

• Bones – Cooked or raw, salmon bones pose a significant choking hazard and can damage the GI tract.

• Fatty Fish – Fattier fish like salmon should only be fed occasionally. Too much can cause pancreatitis.

• Gastrointestinal Upset – Rich fish like salmon can cause vomiting or diarrhea if your Yorkie isn’t accustomed to it. Go slow.

Check with your vet before feeding salmon, especially if your Yorkie has any health conditions. Stop feeding it if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction or GI upset.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, salmon can provide valuable protein and omega-3 fatty acids for Yorkies when fed properly and in moderation. To safely add this fish to your Yorkie’s diet:

• Select wild-caught salmon and cook it plain and thoroughly
• Completely remove all small bones to prevent choking/injury
• Introduce tiny portions and slowly increase to recommended amounts
• Avoid overfeeding, and don’t give salmon every day
• Check for allergies and GI sensitivity

Feeding a few small salmon portions per week, as part of a nutritionally balanced diet, can be a safe way to provide Yorkies with the benefits of this omega-3-rich fish. Just be sure to take the proper precautions outlined above. Check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about adding salmon or fish to your Yorkie’s meals.