The particular best for the dog – regarding to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and job, but most importantly, of course, food. The meals is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Just like humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate at which age? Is definitely dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be given? What can cause deficiency symptoms?
In the following best dog food for westies, we present 10 products. We offer information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and explain how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will see which foods dogs cannot endure and just how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dog food for westies:
- Eukanuba Dry Dog Food Breed Nutrition with West Highland Terrier, 2.5 kg — £13.29
- Royal Canin West Highland White Terrier 1.5 kg — £17.29
-
CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, Fresh Adult Wet Dog Food Pouches in Delicious...
—
£22.00
£30.00 - Applaws Natural, Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Adult and Large... — £40.29
-
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog...
—
£51.99
£61.24 -
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish...
—
£62.56
£64.99 - Paul O’Grady’s No Nasties Dog Food Rich in Chicken, 15 kg
- RC Westie 21 3kg — £26.53
- ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG — £31.28
- ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG — £19.51
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dog food for westies of 2024. We would recommend using ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dog food for westies
Best dog food for westies
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG
Features
| Part Number | WW-W88S-FQV7 |
| Size | 1.5 kg (Pack of 1) |
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
Features
| Size | 3 kg (Pack of 1) |
CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, Fresh Adult Wet Dog Food Pouches in Delicious Sauce with Succulent Meats and Vegetables, 2 x (24 x 100g)
£22.00
Features
- CESAR deliciously fresh 100% complete wet dog food pouches, filled with a tasty combination of either beef & carrots, chicken & vegetables, lamb & peas or turkey & carrots, in a tasty sauce
- Each meal consists of a tried and tested dog-friendly recipe with mouth-watering moist selected meats, tasty vegetables, vitamins and minerals, combined with a sauce that dogs just can't resist
- Wet food pouches lock in the freshness of our ingredients and we don't add any sugar, artificial colours or flavours, just great tasting, gently cooked, natural food that your dog will crave more of
- Happy dogs make happy homes and with CESAR pouches, your four-legged friend will look forward to mealtimes like never before, these succulent meals can be served on their own or with dry dog food
- Items delivered: 48 pouches of CESAR Pouch Selection in Sauce, 12 x Beef & Carrots, 12 x Chicken & Vegetables, 12 x Lamb & Peas and 12 x Turkey & Carrots, 100% complete tasty wet dog food
Eukanuba Dry Dog Food Breed Nutrition with West Highland Terrier, 2.5 kg
Features
- Optimal ratio of Omega-6 and 3 fatty acids help promote healthy skin and radiant coat
- Reduced fat to help maintain optimal body weight
- Clinically proven DentalCare System helps reduce tartar build-up by up to 55% in 28 days
- No artificial preservatives, flavours or colourants added
- 100% complete and balanced
Features
| Part Number | R6-CB02-UQ0D |
| Size | 3 kg (Pack of 1) |
Royal Canin West Highland White Terrier 1.5 kg
Features
- For West Highland White Terriers over 10 months
- For a bright white coat
- Healthy skin
- Satisfies fussy appetites
- Tartar reduction
Applaws Natural, Complete and Grain Free Dry Dog Food for Adult and Large Breed Dogs, Chicken, 7.5 kg Bag
Features
- 75% free run chicken, 25% vegetables and natural extracts. High protein content promotes the development of lean muscle tissue and growth
- Complete, hypoallergenic, and balanced recipe with added vitamins and minerals to give dogs their daily nutrition. Specially formulated for large breed adult dogs
- Contains natural pre-biotic and pro-biotic promoting protective and friendly bacteria in the gut.
- Grain free recipe for easier digestion and relief of grain related allergies.
- 7.5kg Large Breed Adult Chicken formula
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish and Potato, 12 kg
£62.56
Features
- A complete, super premium pet food for adult dogs with particularly sensitive skin or digestion
- This gentle recipe excludes grains and cereals and contains fresh ocean white fish as an easily digestible source of protein which is naturally high in omega-3 essential fatty acids
- It includes our superfood blend of fruits and plant extracts which consists of citrus extracts to help reduce inflammation and support the immune system; dried fruit extracts containing antioxidants which can help protect against free radicals; cranberries for urinary tract health; curcumin for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties; black pepper to help increase the absorption time of curcumin into the body
- All of our diets contain a blend of nutrients and natural supplements to help promote the optimum health, vitality and condition of your pet; These include prebiotics to aid digestion; joint supplements; sustainably sourced krill to help promote a healthy skin and coat; plus added vitamins and minerals to help support your pet’s dental health; High quality ingredients are selected to create our diets and we do not include any artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- All our products are naturally hypoallergenic so you won’t find any wheat gluten, beef, soya or dairy products in any of our recipes; This may reduce the risk of dietary intolerances and allergies that can cause digestive disorders and skin complaints
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog Original Chicken and Brown Rice 12 kg
£51.99
Features
- The original Burns recipe from 1993
- Developed by Veterinary Surgeon, John Burns
- Award-winning recipe
- Natural and complete diet
- Hypoallergenic
Features
- No Nasties - No added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- Skin & Coat - Locally produced fish oil to help support skin and coat health
- Strong Bones - Fortified with calcium and vitamin D to help support bone health
- Natural Defences - Vitamins and natural antioxidants to help support your dog’s immune system
- Digestive Health – A blend of two prebiotics, combined with beet pulp to encourage and maintain a healthy balanced digestive system and firm stool formation
Only the best for the dog – relating to this slogan, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and profession, but especially, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so no problem finding the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the multitude of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Various questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and in what quantity? Which food is suitable from which age? Is definitely dry or moist food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be provided? What causes deficiency symptoms?
In the following dog food comparison, we present 14 products. We provide information about which ingredients the foods contain and for which pups the products are suitable. Within our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food your dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Just as every person has their own dietary needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that will go into the dog’s bowl should be made according to various factors. These include the breed, activity and health of the dog. Age group also plays a role.
Puppies are growing and need special nutrients. In addition, their digestive system is not yet as efficient. An adult dog needs carbs, fats, oils, proteins and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no much longer as active. Therefore, they require less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to digest and include a lot of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in terms of composition, technique of production and consistency.
Structure – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrition the dog needs every day. The proportion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements differs with respect to the product. The ingredients should be adapted to the age, activity and possible allergies of the four-legged friend. A whole food can be dry or damp food. Supplementary meals are not sufficient per to provide the dog with all the vital nutrition. These can be flakes that the dog owner mixes into the food or treats. The declaration shows what.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in dog or cat shops and grocery stores usually comes from commercial production. This kind of is the most frequent form of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. With all the latter, one dish is sufficient for one portion. However, some manufacturers of commercial dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. By exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for many years with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from plant, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food should never contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic nutritional supplements are permitted. In terms of packaging, there is often extremely little difference compared to commercial food: natural dog food is packaged in cans or as dried out food.
– Organic and natural dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically revised ingredients, hormones and pesticides. There are distinctions between the various organic and natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable elements have been highly processed. With all the claim “organic”, the ingredients in the organic food are 95 per cent organic. Whether it claims “made with organic”, the product includes 70 per cent organic and natural ingredients. Organic food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This kind of dog food does not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. However , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can issues if the dog is intolerant.
– An exclusive form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation is short for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of feeding raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When barfing, the dog is fed uncooked fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually much healthier is debatable. Considering that the meals are merged individually, barfing is far more suited to experienced pet owners who have learned the diet of their four-legged friends in detail.
There are manufacturers who advertise that their dog food is of food quality. This is a declaration that ought to be treated with caution. There is no such thing as food-grade pet food. This also applies to dog food. You should also watch out for attractants and flavour enhancers in dog food. These kinds of are supposed to supply the food a much better smell and taste. Some dog enthusiasts also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried fodder
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is made by first drying the raw materials and then grinding and combining them. A tool presses this mass through the spaces of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other part. Throughout the dog food production process, temperatures of approximately 90 degrees Celsius are made, which obviously contradicts the term cold hitting. Yet , temperatures are still significantly lower than those used in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for the dog food are exposed to great heat. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of need to be artificially added to the meals after processing. During control, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Nourish produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been busted down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, little by little. In addition, the food contains more natural elements. In the event the four-legged friend has problems with the gastrointestinal tract and an annoyed digestion, extruded dog food can be more tolerable for him. In this dog food, the starch has already been broken down during heating. On the other hand, the manufacturing process is only an extra factor in deciding the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the raw materials.
Which is better – moist food or dried out food?
There is certainly wet and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes almost no water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew up more and so coach their teeth. Eating dry food is nearly like brushing your dog’s teeth. For dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can become a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are given only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The huge benefits and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less costly than wet food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating during production
- More eco-friendly than processed food
Cons
- Generally less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s person is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight faster if it is not a food items for deiting
- Risk of mould or temperato formation if stored incorrectly
Wet dog food has a high water content. The wet food is usually portioned in tins or small bowls. Generally one package of wet food corresponds to one meal. Many dogs like wet food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, damp food for dogs – once opened – can only be kept for a few times. It must be used up within 2 days and nights of opening. Under we have summarised the huge benefits and drawbacks of wet food:
Pros
- High popularity by most four-legged friends
- Packed in helpful helpings
- Since of the high water content in wet food, your canine does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, moist food cannot be stored perfectly
- Large dogs need to know more space for storage
- Even more difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more extreme
- Costs more than dry food
- Generates more waste
This is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is well suited for your dog. Your dog eventually chooses which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your puppy likes better and which this individual tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners swap between wet and dry food. The following applies to both types of food: It should just be given as a primary meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meats and exactly how many carbohydrates and nutrients are supposed to be in dog food?
The caliber of the dog food plays a major role in a balanced and nutritious diet. It is important that the dog food contains healthy ingredients and nutrients – no matter of whether it is wet food or dry food. The right composition of the dog food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
Simply how much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to that of predators. So above all, the resource of meat is important. However , this is not the only thing that matters. Unlike the wolf, the dog was domesticated by humans, as well as needs and genetics have changed. This also applies to digestive function. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme can now break down starch, meaning the four-legged friend can also digest herb food in smaller quantities.
Above all, meat provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for the muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy teeth and nerves and also to provide energy for its activities. Consequently, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are no longer as active as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 per cent meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats for their four-legged friends, this may lead to digestive problems, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and carbohydrates in dog food?
A balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not present in meat – for example , vitamins and minerals found in fruits and veggies, or fatty stomach acids from healthy natural oils. The four-legged friend also needs carbohydrates. Wolves, for example, eat the belly and intestinal items of prey pets, now and then also berries and grass.
Dogs convert starch from rice, potatoes and cereals into energy and need it for their intestinal flora. On the other hand, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from herb waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or hay in many cases are added to the feed. Top quality carbohydrates are located in rice, potatoes, millet, maize, amaranth or buckwheat.
Animal fat provide the dog with twice as much energy as proteins. To prevent overweight, the food should contain these substances only less often. How much should maintain the dog food depends on how much the pet moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated fatty acids. They can be stored in the body as emergency portion and are meant as a hold for bad times. Meat and vegetable oil contain saturated omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 oils, which are found in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should take the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with top quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 percent high-quality carbohydrates for energy production and fruit, vegetables or herbs for the necessary nutritional supplements. The proportion of offal should be a more 10 percent. Offal provides valuable nutrients such as biotin or iron. Great quality oils such as salmon essential oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient absorption and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny layer and healthy skin.
How can I recognise superior quality dog food?
Puppy food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These include:
– Address and name of the manufacturer
– Date of make or best-before time of the dog food
– Identity of the meals
– Net weight
– Moisture content for canned food
With regard to the ingredients of the feed, various statements are permitted: A closed declaration only indicates ingredient groups. These are, for example , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration lists the individual raw materials, however, not their percentage. The open up declaration gives the composition in percent and the respective sources of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the definition of grain into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meals, maize flour, maize gluten or feed. The cereal components provide carbohydrates and saturate well, but must not be included in too large quantities.
2. The substances in the give food to are listed in descending order regarding to their amount. The further ahead an ingredient is listed on the label, the better its proportion. Alternatively, this implies: Only a tiny proportion of an ingredient that is listed far down the list is within the feed.
Other aspects by which dog owners recognise the quality of the food are:
– Meat content of 50 to 70 per cent
– Grain and veggie content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced substances with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– Zero use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism has no trouble digesting good dog food. Indications of this are almost odourless faeces, high vitality and a shiny coat. The proportion of nutrients in a dog food is listed under the term “analytical ingredients”. We have summarised these in the table:
| Component | Quantity required | Tasks | Information and special features |
| Crude protein | 20 to 25 percent in dry food 8 to 10 percent in wet food | Builds the body’s own tissue such as muscles and bones Strengthening skin and organs Enzymes, blood and hormones also need protein | High-quality protein comes mainly from muscle meat. Low-quality protein is found in slaughterhouse waste |
| Crude ash | 5 to 8 per cent or a maximum of 10 per cent for dry food. Less than 2 percent for wet feed | Supply of inorganic substances such as magnesium, calcium, zinc or silicic acid | Formed after combustion of the feed Proportion should be balanced Sometimes cheap but unnecessary bone meal products are added |
| Crude fibre | 2 to 3 percent for dry food 0.2 to 5 percent for wet food | Support of digestion Stimulation of intestinal activity Strengthens healthy intestinal flora Influences consistency and shape of dog faeces | Proportion of dietary fibre Too high a proportion can lead to flatulence and large quantities of faeces Rumen is filled with raw fibre Otherwise in the form of vegetables and fruit |
| Crude fat | At least 15 percent in dry food for active dogs 12 to 15 percent for dry food for dogs with normal to less exercise 1 percent for wet food | Provides energy Ensure healthy skin and shiny coat | High-quality products include salmon oil, linseed oil, cod oil, pumpkin seed oil and hemp oil. |
The other possible ingredients in dog food are explained below:
1. The value for meat and pet by-products indicates the meat content in the dog food. Manufacturers often do not declare precisely what is involved. It can be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, dried meats, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for example , hair, our bones, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as its by-products include fish fillets, bones and fish minds.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are partly health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and solidifying agents and acidity regulators. Many of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural antioxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be included in the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and track elements.
6. Zootechnical additives can be added to the feed to effect the dog’s performance and health – such as stabilisers for the intestinal flora or digestive : enzymes.
7. Sensory additives are employed to influence the appearance and taste of the dog food. They will include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight puppies suffer! Obesity is an increasing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of internal organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes swelling. It may also shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Often , too much food is the reason for overweight. But age, sex and breed also play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. Sometimes the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
In the event the four-legged good friend gets more energy than he uses, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is crucial to give canines the right amount of food. How much pet food a dog needs depends upon various factors. In addition to the breed, the next aspects are relevant, for example:
Activity level: How much the four-legged good friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A puppy that moves a lot burns more calories. If the dog is not so active, it burns fewer calories from fat and has a slower metabolism. Consequently, he needs less food.
Age: Young dogs remain growing and in many cases are more curious and energetic. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It truly is advisable to reduce the amount of food a little each year. For old dogs, there are senior foods that are lower in excess fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs you need to change at the age group of 10 to 12 years, for large dogs as early as 7 to 8 years.
Diseases: Some diseases influence a dog’s food or energy requirements. These kinds of include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. When dogs are coping with illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormonal levels can rise or fall, changing energy needs. For instance , dogs have different energy needs when they are with child or change their coat.
To find out just how much food is right for your dog, look at the food content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lower amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the following guidelines as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with a normal activity level should be about 2 to 3 percent of the dog’s weight.
– If the dog is older and does not exercise as much, a daily food amount of 2 % of the body weight is usually sufficient.
– A dog that moves a lot or is coping with an illness should be fed more. His necessary food amount per day is up to 5 per cent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 % of the daily food requirement.
Any individual who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and/or a nutritionist.
How can I recognise a food allergy or intolerance?
The most frequent allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible sets off of the allergy are, for example , stress, unwanted organisms and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can induce allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , mi nombre es, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the difference between an allergy or intolerance and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. It reacts strongly against a certain material. A genuine food allergy rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Possible indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itchiness, vomiting, belly pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss in fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up immediately after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
However, the symptoms do certainly not have to indicate an allergy or intolerance or intolerance. That they may also be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you need to have the cause clarified with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or an intolerance, for example , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to undertake an exclusion diet. However, this involves a number of effort.
What is an different diet?
In an exclusion diet, the owner feeds the four-legged friend only one special supply of protein and carbs. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend hasn’t eaten before. Pet owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following the food change, the dog is fed the new food for many weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms no more occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which may be the trigger for the allergies. Above time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An eradication diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. However, it is advisable to seek advice from a professional or speak to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is vital during an exclusion diet. The dog should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this period.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If this turns out that your four-legged friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing chemicals. The selected family pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same goes to treats and dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is called for: sometimes it calls for a while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergic reaction no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely a few months following your change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Puppy food often includes grains. Such as whole wheat, barley and rye, for example. Embryon have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, an excessive amount of it leads to obesity and sometimes to an issue with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternative ingredients such as potatoes and dried beans, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and it is also ideal for more sensitive dogs. Yet , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to digest vegetable protein. Several types of grain are also especially easy to process. These include maize and rice, for example. In some instances, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without grain. This is especially true if your canine is allergic to food containing cereals.
In the event that you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not way too high and that the product has a balanced recipe.
What can dogs not tolerate?
There are a lot of foods that dogs can’t tolerate. Some of them are actually poisonous for puppies. These include, for example, onions, natural cabbage and natural pork. Onions can be fatal, depending on the size of the onion and your canine. For a medium-sized dog, even a medium-sized onion can be extremely dangerous. If the dog eats raw cabbage, it can get belly cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could develop the Aujeszky disease, which causes fatal illness. Other foods and drinks that pups should not eat include:
- Chocolate
- Raw carrots
- Grapes
- Sultanas
- Fruits starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter almonds
- Raw ova
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as caffeine
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Consequently, caution is suggested in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be placed in such a way that the dog cannot reach them.
If a dog has eaten food that is dangerous for it, you should contact the doctor and also the veterinary unexpected emergency service directly. In the mean time, keep your dog in a secure environment. On the other hand, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It may be necessary to take the dog to a veterinary clinic or drive it to the vet. Symptoms that could occur with poisoning include:
- Extreme salivation
- Excessive being thirsty
- Throwing up
- Diarrhoea
- Cramps
- Uneasyness
- Shortness of breath
To prevent the dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. Found in addition, it is important to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all off of the side of the trail.
The best choice is the ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG.
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG
Video about best dog food for westies
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about dog food
Finally, we answer some important and frequently asked questions about dog food.
What should We look for in dog food for puppies?
Puppies desire a different dog food than adult dogs. Once they are weaned from their mother, puppy food is on the menu. This is usually the truth after about 8 weeks. The components and ingredients of puppy dog food are specially designed for growing dogs. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bone tissues, muscles, coat and teeth first have to produce.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Previously mentioned all, the pup food must contain certain essential vitamins and minerals. So that the puppy’s digestive tract is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than your canine food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be provided small portions many times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This depends on the breed of dog: Up-and-coming small to medium breeds are considered grown ups from 9 to 12 months of age. For large breeds, it is recommended to give adult food to dogs from 12 to 15 months of age. For very large breeds, it is advised to give adult food a little later – from 18 to 24 months.
When should my dog be given food for seniors?
For small canines, the enhancements made on diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, it is time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered senior at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age group, the dog’s condition of health is also an important criterion. It is a good idea to discuss the change of food with the vet.
Precisely what is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be kept in an snug container. Glass or plastic containers without plasticisers are best. Packaging with a metal layer on the inside is also recommended for storing dried food. The container or packaging should be stored in a dry and not too warm place. Otherwise the meals can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. In the worst case, mould can develop.
Precisely what is barfing?
The abbreviation BARF comes from the The english language and means Born-Again Raw Feeder. The UK term means “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is dependent on the eating habits of wild dogs. Ready-made food plays no role in barfeeding. Instead, the dog is fed natural food such as meat, offal and bones, supplemented with vegetables, fruit, oils and carbohydrates for a well-balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, substance and freeze-dried BARF food and deep-frozen meat are available in the shops. Dog owners can add the other necessary components. Yet , you should inform yourself well or consult with experts.
What do I have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. If the changeover is abrupt, sensitive canines in particular can easily suffer from intestinal problems, a few of that can be considerable. A period of one week is usually recommended for your dog to get used to the new food.
The change of food should proceed as follows: On day 1 and 2, replace about a 1 / 4 of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3rd and fourth day, replace half with the new food. Around the fifth and sixth day, the proportion of the new dog food should be 3 quarters. On day 7, the conversion is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for instance , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the meals change, you should extend the adaptation phase and improve the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food at all, it is obviously not suited to him. In cases like this, you should look for an alternative.
What should I actually do if my dog does not like dry food?
Then it makes sense to soak the dry food. This has several advantages: Dogs often eat the dry food beyond hunger because it swells up in the stomach first. This makes it easier to allow them to become overweight and feel full. In the event the food has already inflamed in water, it fills the dog up faster and is simpler to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with soaked dry food.
How quickly do dogs break down dry food?
Puppies usually need up to 14 several hours to digest dry out food. The exact time depends, among other things, on the age and size of the dog and the caliber of the food. A young dog usually has a faster metabolism than an more mature animal. The amount of food is also important. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibres remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also leads to faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the shorter the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
There are quite a few manufacturers who carry out pet experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a list of manufacturers who do not test on animals.
Which manufacturers and brands produce dog food?
The best-known dog food manufacturers and dog food brands include, for instance , ROYAL CANIN, Josera and WOLFSBLUT. Other well-known manufacturers and brands are, for example:
– Bosch
– PRIMUM
– Pedigree
– RINTI
– Animonda
– MERA
When is i able to start nourishing a puppy?
During the beginning of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Sound food is usually eaten by young puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continually feed her puppies with breast milk in parallel. In order to accustom a puppy to dry food, it seems sensible to moisten or dilute it with some liquid – for example with puppy dog milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally will no longer fed with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking your dry puppy food with a liquid until the pup is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, mix in more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– If you make the dog food yourself, you can decide for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners range from the special needs of their four-legged good friend in the preparing and adapt the foodstuff to these and the dog’s taste.
– It is possible to make the food more varied for the dog.
If, for example , the dog is overweight, has to take medication or is intolerant to various foods, it may be sensible or necessary to prepare the food yourself. Before organizing the food, you should study different ingredients. The meals should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is highly recommended to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the net, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for canines. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially well suited for dogs with allergic reactions. It truly is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by your dog. Presently there is hypoallergenic dry out food and allergies wet food on the market. It contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Appropriately, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your dog will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will happen.
Usually there is just one source of necessary protein in such a product. This is usually an exotic meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely causes an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergic reactions. This happens when there is a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot tolerate.
In addition to dogs with allergy symptoms, hypoallergenic food is suited to four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product can offer prevention of digestive problems.
