West Highland White Terriers, commonly known as Westies, are adorable little dogs with big personalities. As a Westie owner, you want to ensure your furry friend is happy and healthy. A big part of that is feeding them the right kind of food. This article will explore some of the best dog food for West Highland terriers and help you choose the best one for your pup.
Dry vs. Wet Food
The first thing to consider is whether dry or wet food is better. Dry kibble is popular because it helps clean teeth and is more convenient since you don’t have to open cans. Wet food can be tastier for picky eaters. Most vets recommend mixing both dry and wet for a balanced diet.
Dry kibble is very convenient to feed since you just scoop it into the bowl. It also helps scrape plaque off teeth as dogs eat. Westies have small mouths, so dental health is important. The crunchy texture of kibble massages gums.
However, some Westies refuse to eat dry food. They want gravy or chunks in their meal. For fussy eaters, mixing in a little wet food can make dry kibble more enticing. To soften it up, you can also try soaking kibble in warm water or low-sodium chicken broth.
Top Dog Food Brands |Best dog food for West Highland terriers
Royal Canin is a great brand for breed-specific foods. Their Westie formula provides optimal nutrition for healthy skin, coat, and dental care. It contains prebiotics for digestive health.
Hill’s Science Diet Small & Toy Breed
Hill’s is a top-selling brand trusted by vets. Their small breed recipe has precisely balanced calcium for bone support. It also contains DHA for brain and eye development.
Purina Pro Plan Focus Small Breed
Made with high-quality proteins, this Purina formula supports brain function with DHA and antioxidants. It contains prebiotics and probiotics for immune support.
Iams Proactive Health Smart Puppy
A good option for growing Westie puppies, Iams promotes healthy joints and mobility. It contains omega fatty acids for skin and coat. All these brands meet Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for nutritional requirements. You can’t go wrong with any of them.
Nutritional Requirements for Westies
Protein
Westies have high protein needs to support their muscle growth and active bodies. Look for foods containing at least 22% protein from quality animal sources like chicken, fish or lamb. Protein also keeps them feeling full for longer.
Fat
A little fat is important for Westies’ health. Omega fatty acids support their skin and coat. Look for at least 12% fat content, focusing on “good” fats from sources like salmon oil. Too much fat can lead to weight gain.
Carbs
Carbs should come from whole grains like brown rice, not corn or wheat. Westies need around 30% of their calories from carbs for energy. Choose limited-ingredient foods if your pup has sensitivities.
Dental Care for West Highland Terrier
Brushing Daily
Brushing your Westie’s teeth daily with veterinarian-recommended dog toothpaste helps remove plaque and tartar. Start them young and make it a positive experience with praise and treats.
Dental Chews & Treats
Chew toys and treats containing glycerin and xylitol help scrub teeth as they chew. Look for ones recommended by your vet. Be sure your Westie doesn’t ingest too many that aren’t part of their daily calorie needs.
Annual Checkups
Even with good home care, dental disease can develop. Have your vet check your Westie’s mouth at least once every 12 months. They can clean teeth or identify any problems early.
Supplements for West Highland Terrier
Probiotics
Probiotics support your Westie’s digestive health. Look for ones specifically formulated for dogs. Add to food or give orally as directed.
Omega Fatty Acids
Supplementing with fish oil provides skin and coat benefits. Start with a low dosage and monitor your pup for any reactions.
Joint Supplements
If your Westie shows signs of arthritis as they age, supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin can help support mobility. Always use dog-formulated supplements.
Transitioning Foods Gradually
Introduce Slowly
Mix a small amount of new food into the old over 5-7 days when switching foods. This lets their digestion adjust slowly to new ingredients.
Monitor Stools
Check stools are normal during the transition. Diarrhoea could mean too fast a change. Slow the process down if needed.
Bland Diet For West Highland terriers
If switching causes tummy upset, try a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice for a day before resuming the transition at a slower pace.
Food Storage Guidelines
Seal Tightly
Keep dry food in an airtight container away from heat, moisture and pests. Bugs or mold can grow in open bags.
Refrigerate Wet Food
Once opened, canned food stays freshest in the fridge for 3-5 days. Discard if signs of spoilage, like strange smells, develop.
Check Dates
Don’t feed expired foods. Throw out anything past the best-before or use-by date on the package.
Travel Feeding Tips
Portion Control
Pack single portions of kibble in baggies or containers for on-the-go meals. This prevents overeating in unfamiliar places.
Familiar Bowl
Bring your Westie’s bowl for added comfort when away from home. The smell and feel may soothe them.
Snacks
Consider packing soft training treats that are safe for the car or plane to keep them satisfied between meals.
Conclusion
With so many options, choosing the best dog food for a west highland terrier can feel overwhelming. The most important things are picking a brand you trust from a reputable company, following age and size guidelines, and feeding your Westie pup regularly. With the right nutrition, they’ll grow into happy, healthy dogs. I hope this guide has helped you find the best food match for your furry friend. Let me know if you have any other questions!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1: What’s the best dog food for West Highland Terriers?
Ans 1: For your purebred Westie, Royal Canin West Highland White Terrier dog chow is specially formulated nourishment. With special nutrients, this meal is exclusively designed for your West Highland Terrier and will help them grow and thrive.
Q.2: What should I feed my West Highland terrier?
Ans 2: A West Highland White Terrier’s diet should include meat, bone, offal, and limited plant-based foods. These foods all contribute essential vitamins and minerals to mealtimes.
Q.3: How often should I feed my West Highland terrier?
Ans 3: A measured amount of food should be given to adult Westies twice daily. To avoid low blood sugar, westie puppies must eat three meals a day at the very least. Avoid giving your dog free or excessive food, which can result in obesity.
Q.4: Is rice good for Westies?
Ans 4: Dogs can indeed eat white rice. White rice can be fed to dogs despite having less nutritional value than brown rice. Vets frequently suggest white rice for dogs with upset stomachs because of its relative blandness.
Q.5: Can Westies eat tomatoes?
Ans 5: Both yes and no. Only ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs to consume in moderation. Avoid giving your dog green tomatoes because they contain chemicals that could harm them, and don’t give them tomatoes in big amounts or frequently.
Also Read: