Best Dog Foods for West Highland White Terriers
West Highland White Terriers (Westies) need a balanced diet to maintain their striking appearance and health.
Opt for high-quality proteins like chicken or beef to support muscles, bones, and tissues.
Their sensitive tummies and refined tastes require highly palatable foods free from allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.
Fats, including chicken fat and canola oil, add flavor and provide energy, while omega fatty acids promote a healthy, thick coat and reduce shedding.
Grain-free, limited-ingredient diets help with skin issues and digestive sensitivities.
Look for foods rich in calcium, phosphorus, chondroitin, and glucosamine to support joint health and reduce the risk of patellar luxation.
The top 5 dog food brands for Westies are:
- Blue Buffalo
- FirstMate
- Holistic Select
- Nature’s Variety
- Canidae
These brands offer a range of options for different life stages, from high-protein puppy formulas to senior diets rich in joint-friendly supplements. Prices range from $22.99 to $98.16.
What Are the Best Dog Foods for Westies
- Best Overall: Blue Buffalo Puppy Wilderness Dry Food – $34.98 for an 11-pound bag = $3.18 per pound.
- Best Budget-Friendly: American Journey Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Dry Food -$52.99 for a 24-pound bag = $2.21 per pound.
- Best for Westie Puppies: FirstMate Grain-Free Puppy Dry Food – $25.43 for a 5-pound bag = $5.08 per pound.
- Best Wet Food: Nature’s Variety Original Instinct Grain-Free Small Breed Real Beef Natural Wet Recipe Dog Food – $34.68 for a 5.5-oz, case of 12.
- Best for Sensitive Stomach: CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Food – $42.99 for a 12-pound bag = $3.58 per pound.
Blue Buffalo Puppy Wilderness Dry Food
Blue Buffalo’s recipe, launched on March 24, 2015, is perfect for Westie puppies.
With real chicken as the first ingredient, it provides 36% protein, taurine for heart and brain health, and omega fatty acids for skin and coat wellness.
Grain-free and free from common allergens, it supports digestion and vision with chicory roots and carrots. Not suitable for dogs with chicken allergies.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Pea Protein, Pea, Tapioca Starch.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 36 min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calories: 423 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s age and weight
- Key Benefit: Contains high amounts of proteins, calcium, and phosphorus for bone, joint, and muscle power. DHA and ARA promote brain development, focus, and trainability.
- Price: $34.98 per 11-lb bag ($3.18-lb)
FirstMate Grain-Free Puppy Dry Food
FirstMate dog food, produced since February 5, 2007, is ideal for West Highland Terrier puppies.
High-calorie content boosts endurance, while the unique kibble size and balanced protein and fat values support growth.
Single-source protein and carbohydrates improve digestibility.
Chelated minerals ensure nutrient absorption, and yeast extract with yucca schidigera enhances gut health and reduces stool odor.
- First 5 Ingredients: Ocean Fish Meal, Norkotah Potato, Burbank Potato, Chicken Fat, Tomato Pomace.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 28 min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 8% Max.
- Calories: 541 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s life stage and weight
- Key Benefit: Includes calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine to lower the risk of patellar luxation. Rich in omega 6 and 3 fatty acids for a gorgeous white coat and soft skin.
- Price: $25.43 per 5-lb bag ($5.08-lb)
Nature’s Variety Original Instinct Grain-Free Small Breed Real Beef Natural Wet Recipe Dog Food
Canidae Corporation’s grain-free formula, produced since August 6, 2013, is ideal for Westies.
With fewer ingredients, it minimizes allergy risks, while antioxidants and probiotics reduce inflammation and gut problems.
Wholesome veggies provide vitamins and energy.
Free from corn, wheat, and soy, it’s safe for sensitive Westies and a great alternative for dogs with chicken intolerance.
- First 5 Ingredients: Beef, Beef Broth, Beef Liver, Ground Dried Peas, Cod.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 8.5% min, Crude Fat 4.5% min, Crude Fiber 2% Max.
- Calories: 86 kcal/3-oz can
- Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s life stage.
- Key Benefit: Beef and beef liver are the main ingredients for repairing tissues and building strong muscles. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids support coat and skin wellbeing.
- Price: $34.68 per 5.5-oz,case of 12
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Dry Food
Canidae Corporation’s grain-free formula, produced since August 6, 2013, is ideal for Westies.
With fewer ingredients, it minimizes allergy risks, while antioxidants and probiotics reduce inflammation and gut problems.
Wholesome veggies provide vitamins and energy.
Free from corn, wheat, and soy, it’s safe for sensitive Westies and a great alternative for dogs with chicken intolerance.
- First 5 Ingredients: Lamb, Chicken Meal, Turkey Meal, Sweet Potato, Peas.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 32% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 4.5% Max.
- Calories: 509 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight
- Key Benefit: High levels of glucosamine, chondroitin, omega 6, and omega 3 fatty acids for joint, skin, and coat well-being. Novel proteins for lean muscles and strong bones.
- Price: $42.99 per 12-lb bag ($3.58-lb)
Victor Purpose Active Puppy Formula Dry Food
Make your Westie a victor with Mid-America Pet Food LLC, launched on March 31, 2013.
This nutrient-dense, grain-free, and gluten-free meal provides high protein for flavor and muscle, and yucca schidigera for reduced stool odor.
DHA, zinc, selenium, vitamin E, and L-carnitine enhance cognitive, immune, and cardiac health. Ideal for sensitive tummies.
- First 5 Ingredients: Beef Meal, Peas, Sweet Potato, Chicken Fat, Menhaden Fish Meal.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 33% min, Crude Fat 16% min, Crude Fiber 3.8% Max.
- Calories: 384 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight.
- Key Benefit: Made with linoleic and linolenic acid to keep your Westie’s white coat dazzling. The unique VPRO blend promotes digestibility and immunity.
- Price: $36.99 per 15-lb bag ($2.47-lb)
American Journey Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Dry Food
Say goodbye to poor-quality ingredients with Chewy’s American Journey.
Crafted for sensitive Westies, it’s grain-free with a single protein source.
Packed with chondroitin and glucosamine for joint health, and sweet potatoes for stamina. High-quality yet budget-friendly, it boosts overall wellness for a memorable journey.
- First 5 Ingredients: Deboned Salmon, Salmon Meal, Peas, Chickpeas, Sweet Potatoes.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 12% min, Crude Fiber 6% Max.
- Calories: 327 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight
- Key Benefit: Contains high amounts of proteins, calcium, and phosphorus for bone, joint, and muscle power. Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids keep the coat beautiful.
- Price: $52.99 per 24-lb bag ($2.21lb)
Wellness Simple Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Small Breed Food
Boost your Westie’s wellness with Wellness, launched on February 15, 2014.
Featuring omega fatty acids, probiotics, antioxidants, and taurine, it supports coat, skin, digestive, immune, and cardiac health.
This grain-free, gluten-free formula is ideal for sensitivities, with beta-carotene for eyesight and vitamin A for a shiny coat. Transition over 5-7 days.
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon, Salmon Meal, Peas, Potatoes, Canola Oil.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 29% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 5% Max.
- Calories: 450 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: Small, extra small, and toy breeds
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight
- Key Benefit: Contains high amounts of proteins, glucosamine, and chondroitin for bone, joint, and muscle power. High-calorie content for high activity.
- Price: $48.01 per 10.5-lb bag ($4.57-lb)
PetKind Green Beef Tripe, Venison Tripett Wet Food
Treat your Westie with Tripett’s tangy, grain-free meal, launched on September 29, 2011.
It’s gluten-free, reduces allergy risks, and has high water content for a healthy coat. Beef tripe aids digestion.
Gradually transition over 5-10 days to avoid tummy upsets. Start with 20% Petkind and increase by 10% daily.
- Ingredients: Green Beef Tripe, Water, Venison, Guar Gum.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 10% min, Crude Fat 5% min, Crude Fiber 0.30% Max.
- Calories: 835 kcal/kg.
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding only.
- Key Benefit: High water content for hydration, detoxification, and smooth digestion. Support coat and skin wellness with omega 6 and 3 fatty acids.
- Price: $98.16 per 5.5-oz, case of 24.
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Raw Freeze-Dried
Nature’s Variety formula, launched on March 3, 2017, is perfect for West Highland White Terriers with sensitive tummies.
With one protein source and one vegetable, it contains no grains, corn, soy, wheat, dairy, or artificial additives.
Freeze-dried raw, it boosts immunity, provides a shiny coat, and supports a healthy weight. Made in the USA for overall well-being.
- First 5 Ingredients: Salmon Meal, Salmon, Peas, Tapioca, Canola Oil.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 28% min, Crude Fat 18% min, Crude Fiber 3% Max.
- Calories: 515 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: All breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight
- Key Benefit: Vitamin C and E play a key role in promoting immunity and preventing oxidative damage. High protein content for bone and muscle power.
- Price: $79.99 per 20-lb bag ($3.99-lb)
FirstMate Chicken Meal & Blueberries LID Small Bites Dry Food
FirstMate Pet Foods’ formula, launched on November 5, 2012, is ideal for Westies.
Made with free-run chicken, it provides essential amino acids.
Cranberries, blueberries, and raspberries add flavor and dietary fiber.
This small-bite recipe is free from gluten, grains, and peas. Introduce gradually over 7 days to aid digestion.
- First 5 Ingredients: Chicken Meal, Norkotah Potato, Burbank Potato, Whole Blueberries, Chicken Fat.
- Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein 25% min, Crude Fat 14% min, Crude Fiber 4% Max.
- Calories: 537 kcal/cup
- Suitable for which dogs: Extra small, toy, and small breeds.
- Feeding: Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your dog’s weight and life stage.
- Key Benefit: Glucosamine, calcium, and phosphorus work together for strong bones and thick muscles. Whole blueberries provide potent antioxidants to prevent inflammation.
- Price: $49.81 per 14.5-lb bag ($3.44-lb)
What Should You Consider While Buying Dog Foods West Highland White Terriers?
Westies, small dogs weighing 15-22 pounds, need a balanced diet tailored to their unique size and breed.
High-quality dog foods with real meat as the first ingredient provide essential protein for muscle and tissue health.
Healthy fats like salmon oil and flaxseed, along with sufficient calories, supply energy and promote a shiny coat.
Westies are prone to health issues like gluten sensitivity and joint problems, including patellar luxation and copper toxicosis.
To support joint health, choose foods containing glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium, and phosphorus. Grain-free or gluten-free foods with natural ingredients are ideal for sensitive tummies.
When selecting dog food, carefully read labels to ensure it contains wholesome, natural ingredients like real fruits and vegetables, which offer vitamins and antioxidants.
The first five ingredients are most important as they make up 80% of the food.
Avoid foods with harmful chemicals and additives, such as artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors.
Steer clear of controversial ingredients, especially in the top five, and common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy, which can trigger sensitivities in Westies.
Prioritizing high-quality, nutrient-dense foods helps support their health and reduces the risk of allergies, digestive issues, and joint problems.
What are the best dog foods for Westies with different ingredients?
The Best Food With Pumpkin for Westies
- Acana Limited Ingredient Dry Food: Westies are prone to tummy sensitivities, and pumpkin provides fiber to soothe the stomach and ensure smooth digestion.
What are the best foods for Westies with Different Health Conditions?
The Best Food for Westies With Allergies
- Merrick Turkey & Rice Limited Ingredient Diet Wet Food: It has fewer ingredients to reduce allergies and ease the identification and elimination of allergens. It features real deboned turkey as a single source of proteins.
The Best Food for Westies With Sensitive Stomach
- Diamond Care Adult Formula Sensitive Stomach Dry Food: Single-source and easily digestible protein lowers the risks of allergens that trigger tummy sensitivities.
What are the daily calorie requirements of West Highland White Terriers?
The daily calorie intake for your Westie largely depends on their activity level.
Highly active Westies require more calories, approximately 700 calories per day, while inactive ones need about 450 calories.
Puppies, being energetic and still growing, need more calories to support their development compared to adult and senior Westies.
It’s essential to spread your puppy’s meals throughout the day to meet their high-energy requirements effectively.
What vegetables are appropriate for a West Highland White Terrier’s diet?
Blanching, steaming, puréeing, and freezing are great methods for preparing vegetables for your Westie, who can also enjoy raw options. Here are some of the best vegetables for them:
- Kale: Rich in nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and vitamin K, kale promotes vision, immune function, and bone health while providing energy.
- Spinach: This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamins C and E for immunity and iron for red blood cell formation, along with carotenoids for eye health.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, carrots support strong vision.
- Green Beans: Low in calories and high in fiber, green beans aid digestion and maintain a healthy weight. They also provide calcium and vitamin C for bone and immune health.
- Broccoli: This vegetable is loaded with vitamins K and C, along with potassium, promoting bone density, immunity, and heart health.
Do West Highland White Terriers Have Picky Eating Habits?
West Highland Terriers can be picky eaters, so making their meals appealing is essential. Here are some tips to encourage your Westie to eat:
- Serve Wet Food: Wet food is tastier and easier to chew than dry kibble. Mixing in tomato soup or dog food gravy can enhance flavor.
- Provide Lots of Liquids: Liquids can stimulate appetite. If your Westie refuses both dry and wet food, offer fluids like low-sodium chicken broth to keep them hydrated.
- Home-Cooked Meals: Preparing your dog’s meals at home can entice them to eat. Be sure to avoid harmful ingredients like onions and garlic.
