West Highland Terriers, affectionately known as Westies, are a small breed of dog that originated in Scotland. They are known for their distinctive white double coats and lively, playful nature. Westies are relatively healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain health conditions, such as skin allergies and digestive problems.
As a Westie owner, I know that finding the best food for our furry friends can be a challenge. I’ve been through it myself, trying different brands and formulas, only to have my Westie end up with digestive problems or a lack of energy.
I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences. You want to give your Westie the best possible food, but it’s hard to know where to start. There are so many different brands and formulas to choose from, and it’s hard to know which one is right for your dog.
That’s why I’ve decided to write this article. I want to share with you the 10 best dog foods for West Highland Terriers (check out our recommendations for the best dog foods for Blue Heelers), based on my own experience and research. I’ve also included reviews from other Westie owners, so you can get their insights as well.
Types of Dog Food for West Highland Terriers
West Highland Terriers can eat wet food, dry food, or a combination of both. Wet food is typically higher in moisture and protein than dry food, but it is also more expensive and can be more difficult to store. Dry food is more affordable and convenient, but always choose a high-quality food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, activity level, and health needs.
10 Best Dog Foods for West Highland Terriers
Here are 10 of the best dog foods for West Highland Terriers:
1. Royal Canin Breed Health Nutrition West Highland White Terrier Adult Dry Dog Food
This food is specifically designed for West Highland Terriers over the age of 10 months. It contains a unique combination of nutrients that help to support the breed’s unique needs, such as a healthy skin and coat, strong bones and muscles, and a healthy digestive system.
Ingredients: Real chicken, brown rice, brewers rice, wheat gluten, chicken fat, chicken liver flavor, natural flavors, fish oil, dried beet pulp, sodium chloride, potassium chloride, DL-methionine, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Specifically formulated for West Highland Terriers aged 10 months and older.
- Contains a unique blend of nutrients to support the breed’s specific needs.
- Real chicken is the primary ingredient
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to some other options.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie has been on this food for years and he loves it! His coat is healthy and shiny, and he has never had any digestive problems.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit expensive, but it is worth it for the quality.”
2. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Small Breed Active Dog Food
This food is formulated for small breed dogs that are active. It contains high-quality ingredients, such as real chicken and whole grains, that provide your dog with the nutrients they need to stay healthy and active.
Ingredients: Chicken, whole wheat flour, brown rice, pearled barley, chicken fat, chicken meal, dried beet pulp, vegetable oil, pork flavor, fish oil, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Designed for active small breed dogs.
- High-quality ingredients like real chicken and whole grains.
- best for boosting a healthy coat and energy levels.
Cons
- Contains grains, which may not be suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie loves this food and his coat looks great! He also has a lot of energy and stamina.”
- Negative: “This food contains some grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.”
3. Purina Pro Plan FOCUS Adult Small Breed Sensitive Stomach Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is designed for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. It contains real chicken and rice as the first two ingredients, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Chicken, rice, chicken fat, dried egg product, fish oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Tailored for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Real chicken and rice as the first ingredients.
- Positive user reviews for sensitive stomachs.
Cons
- Slightly higher in price compared to some alternatives.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie has a sensitive stomach and this food is the only one that doesn’t upset it. He loves the taste and his stool is always firm.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit pricier than some other brands, but it is worth it for the quality.”
4. Eukanuba Adult Small Breed Dog Food
This food is formulated for small breed dogs of all ages,including westies. It contains real chicken and lamb as the first two ingredients, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Chicken, lamb, chicken fat, brewers rice, whole wheat flour, dried beet pulp, fish oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Suitable for small breed dogs of all ages.
- Contains real chicken and lamb.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons
- Contains grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.s
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie loves this food and his coat is so healthy! He also has a lot of energy.”
- Negative: “This food contains some grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.”
5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Rocky Mountain Recipe High Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
This food is grain-free and high in protein, making it a good choice for West Highland Terriers with allergies or sensitivities. It contains real chicken and deboned red meat as the first two ingredients and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, potatoes, sweet potatoes, pea protein, menhaden fish meal, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Grain-free and high in protein.
- Real chicken and deboned red meat as primary ingredients.
- Free from artificial additives.
Cons
- May be more expensive than some other brands.
User reviews
Positive: “My Westie has allergies and this food is the deal.”
6. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is grain-free and high in protein, making it a good choice for West Highland Terriers with allergies or sensitivities. It contains real salmon as the first ingredient, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, whitefish meal, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, salmon oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Grain-free and high in protein.
- Real salmon as the primary ingredient.
- Positive user reviews for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
- No artificial additives.
Cons
- Slightly higher in price compared to some alternatives.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie loves this food and his coat is so healthy! He also has a lot of energy.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit pricier than some other brands, but it is worth it for the quality.”
7. Diamond Naturals Small Breed Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is formulated for small breed dogs of all ages. It contains real chicken as the first ingredient, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Chicken, whole wheat flour, brown rice, chicken fat, chicken meal, dried beet pulp, fish oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Formulated for small breed dogs of all ages.
- Contains real chicken as the first ingredient.
- No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Cons
- Contains grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie loves this food and his coat looks great! He also has a lot of energy and stamina.”
- Negative: “This food contains some grains, which may not be ideal for dogs with allergies or sensitivities.”
8. Victor Hi-Pro Plus Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is high in protein and fat, making it a good choice for active West Highland Terriers. It contains real chicken as the first ingredient, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Chicken, chicken meal, beef meal, pork meal, eggs, whole wheat flour, brown rice, chicken fat, beef fat, fish meal, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- High in protein and fat, suitable for active West Highland Terriers.
- Real chicken as the primary ingredient.
- Positive user reviews for energy levels and coat health.
- No artificial additives.
Cons
- Relatively higher cost compared to some other brands.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie is very active and this food gives him the energy he needs. His coat also looks great and he has never had any digestive problems.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit pricier than some other brands, but it is worth it for the quality.”
9. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula Dry Dog Food
This food is grain-free and limited in ingredients, making it a good choice for West Highland Terriers with allergies or sensitivities. It contains real salmon as the first ingredient, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Salmon, sweet potatoes, potato starch, salmon oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Grain-free and limited in ingredients.
- Real salmon as the first ingredient.
- Positive user reviews for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.
- No artificial additives.
Cons
- Slightly higher in price compared to some alternatives.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie has allergies and this food is the only one that doesn’t upset his stomach. His coat also looks great and he has a lot of energy.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit pricier than some other brands, but it is worth it for the quality.”
10. Merrick Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
This food is grain-free and high in protein, making it a good choice for West Highland Terriers with allergies or sensitivities. It contains real salmon as the first ingredient, and it is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
Ingredients: Salmon, sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, salmon oil, natural flavors, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Pros
- Grain-free and high in protein.
- Real salmon as the primary ingredient.
- Positive user reviews for coat health and energy levels.
- No artificial additives.
Cons
- May be more expensive than some other brands.
User reviews
- Positive: “My Westie loves this food and his coat is so healthy! He also has a lot of energy and stamina.”
- Negative: “This food is a bit pricier than some other brands, but it is worth it for the quality.”
Westies-Specific Dog Food Quality To Look For
When selecting a dog food for West Highland Terriers (Westies), consider their specific dietary needs and potential health concerns. Here are some key qualities to look for in Westies-specific dog food:
High-Quality Protein Source
Westies are active dogs, so they need a food that is high in protein. Choose dog food that lists a high-quality protein source as the primary ingredient. This could be real meat like chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health.
Balanced Nutrition
Ensure the dog food provides a balanced mix of essential nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Look for options labeled as “complete and balanced” for your dog’s life stage (e.g., puppy, adult, senior).
Limited Fillers
Avoid dog foods with excessive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. Westies are prone to food allergies, so it is best to choose a food with limited ingredients. These ingredients offer little nutritional value and can trigger allergies or sensitivities in some Westies.
Grain-Free or Limited Ingredient Options
Some Westies may have grain allergies or sensitivities, so grain-free or limited ingredient dog food can be a good choice for them. However, consult with your veterinarian before making this decision.
Avoid Artificial Additives
Opt for dog food that is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. These additives can contribute to skin issues and allergies in Westies.
Healthy Fats
Look for dog food with healthy fat sources like chicken fat or fish oil. These fats are essential for skin and coat health, which is particularly important for Westies with their distinctive double coats.
Digestible Carbohydrates
If the dog food contains carbohydrates, ensure they come from easily digestible sources like sweet potatoes, peas, or brown rice. Avoid excessive amounts of carbohydrates from less nutritious sources.
Joint Support
Westies are prone to joint issues as they age. Consider dog foods that contain glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, which can help support joint health.
Weight Management
If your Westie is prone to weight gain, choose a dog food with a balanced calorie content to help manage their weight effectively.
Always consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your Westie’s diet. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your dog’s specific health needs.
Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a dog food for your Westie:
Age
Westies have different nutritional needs at different stages of their lives. Puppies need a food that is high in protein and calories to support their growth and development. Adult dogs need a food that is balanced and nutritious, and senior dogs may need a food that is easier to digest.
Activity level
Active dogs need more calories than less active dogs. If your Westie is very active, you may want to choose a food that is higher in calories and fat.
Health status
If your Westie has any health conditions, such as allergies or digestive problems, you will need to choose a food that is specifically designed for their needs.
West Highland white terrier Food Calorie Requirements
The calorie requirements for a West Highland white terrier (Westie) can vary depending on factors such as their age, activity level, metabolism, and overall health. However, as a general guideline, a typical adult Westie may require around 400 to 600 calories per day.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Puppies
Westie puppies have higher energy requirements due to their growth and activity levels. A young Westie puppy may require anywhere from 800 to 1,200 calories per day. It’s crucial to follow the feeding guidelines provided by the specific puppy food you choose and adjust based on your veterinarian’s recommendations.
Adults
Adult Westies are generally active dogs, but their calorie needs can vary. An average, moderately active adult Westie may need around 400 to 600 calories per day. If your Westie is more active (e.g., participates in agility training or frequent walks), they might need closer to 600 calories. Less active dogs will require fewer calories.
Seniors
Senior Westies often have reduced activity levels, and their metabolism may slow down. Calorie needs for senior Westies can range from 300 to 500 calories per day. Remember to always monitor their weight and adjust their food accordingly as they age.
If you are unsure how many calories your Westie needs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you calculate your dog’s individual calorie requirements and recommend a feeding schedule.
Here are some tips for feeding your Westie:
- Feed your Westie two meals per day, spaced evenly apart.
- Measure your dog’s food carefully and avoid overfeeding.
- Choose a high-quality food that is appropriate for your dog’s age, activity level, and health status.
- Monitor your dog’s weight and body condition regularly. If they are gaining or losing weight too quickly, adjust their feeding schedule or food amount accordingly.
Conclusion
When choosing a dog food for your West Highland Terrier, consider their individual needs, such as their age, activity level, and health status. Also, choose a food that is made with high-quality ingredients and that is free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
The 10 foods listed above are all good options for West Highland Terriers. However, it is important to talk to your veterinarian before changing your dog’s food, especially if they have any health conditions.