[Ellie May]

Many Yorkies have medical issues that prevent them from eating high protein. It isn't just high protein vs. low protein though. Certain liver problems that are often seen in Yorkies make it so that they can't process things properly. Food and drugs can produce "toxins" (substances that the liver has a hard time filtering). Protein is a major source of these toxins. Some types are worse than others. Foods like L/D that are made for liver problems are low in proteins that produce toxins and instead contain proteins that are safer for these pups. Red meat, for instance, produces a lot of ammonia (a toxin). The liver can't filter it like the liver of a healthy dog. So then they get sick from their meal. This is why foods like NB generally aren't okay if a pup has symptoms but is symptom free on a food made for liver problems. These prescription foods can also be high or low in certain vitamins or minerals that these pups need more or less of.

All that said, if a Yorkie is having symptoms and bloodwork indicates a liver problem, a specialist is needed. Some of these pups (depending on what is wrong) require surgery for the best chance at a long and happy life.