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 occupation, but above all, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog is supplied with all the important nutrients and remains in good health to live a long dog’s life. But it is often not so simple to find the right food for your own dog. Comparable to humans, it is also important to consider a balanced diet. In addition, the wide range of offers in the trade can cause confusion. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements will the dog have and what quantity? Which usually food is appropriate from which age? Is usually dry or damp food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And how much should the dog be provided? What causes deficiency symptoms?
In the following best dry 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. In our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the ingredients and clarify how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will learn which foods dogs cannot tolerate and how you can recognise a food allergy.
Below is a list of the best dry dog food for westies:
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James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Puppy Junior Dog Food Turkey and Vegetable,...
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£12.29
£13.69 - Eukanuba Dry Dog Food Breed Nutrition with West Highland Terrier, 2.5 kg — £13.29
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Beta Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken, 14kg
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£27.99
£31.09 -
Skinner’s Field & Trial Grain Free Chicken & Sweet Potato 15kg – Complete Dry...
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£45.25
£56.09 -
Burns Pet Nutrition Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food Adult and Senior Dog...
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£51.99
£61.24 -
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish...
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£61.49
£64.99 - Amazon Brand - Lifelong - Complete Dry Dog Food With Salmon and Rice for...
- Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried...
- ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG — £14.50
- ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG — £26.77
After hours researching and comparing all models on the market, Life my Dog finds out the Best dry dog food for westies of 2024. We would recommend using ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG as it is our top pick for you.
Top 10 Best dry dog food for westies
Best dry dog food for westies
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
Features
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier, Suitable for West Highland Terriers from 10 months old throughout their lives.
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier is a complete dog food that has been specially formulated to meet the needs of the West Highland Terrier breed and provides optimal support for their unique physiology.
- Made with high quality ingredients including vitamins and minerals, Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier targets:
- Bright white coats with tailor-made nutrition including amino-acids to help support hair growth as well as specific fatty acids derived from borage oil and linseed to help maintain healthy skin; Healthy skin thanks to specific fatty acids from linseed (ALA) and fish oil (EPA and DHA).
- Supports the skin's barrier role, thanks to the patented skin complex; Tartar reduction formula helps reduce tartar formation with calcium chelators and a tailor-made kibble; Satisfies fussy appetites thanks to an exceptional combination of natural flavours. Manufacturer: Royal Canin Size: 3kg
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 1.5KG
Features
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier, Suitable for West Highland Terriers from 10 months old throughout their lives.
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier is a complete dog food that has been specially formulated to meet the needs of the West Highland Terrier breed and provides optimal support for their unique physiology.
- Made with high quality ingredients including vitamins and minerals, Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier targets:
- Bright white coats with tailor-made nutrition including amino-acids to help support hair growth as well as specific fatty acids derived from borage oil and linseed to help maintain healthy skin; Healthy skin thanks to specific fatty acids from linseed (ALA) and fish oil (EPA and DHA).
- Supports the skin's barrier role, thanks to the patented skin complex; Tartar reduction formula helps reduce tartar formation with calcium chelators and a tailor-made kibble; Satisfies fussy appetites thanks to an exceptional combination of natural flavours. Manufacturer: Royal Canin Size: 1.5kg
Amazon Brand - Lifelong - Complete Dry Dog Food With Salmon and Rice for Small Breeds 3kg
Features
- Food for adult Dogs: 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- Formulated with Fresh Salmon; Meat and Animal Derivative: ca. 27%
- Developed by pet nutritionists and checked by veterinarian
- Natural prebiotics to support sensitive digestion
- Glucosamine & Chondroitin for joint support; Added Taurine for healthy eyes and heart
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
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
Arden Grange Sensitive Adult Dry Dog Food Grain Free, Fresh Ocean White Fish and Potato, 12 kg
£61.49
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
Vegan dog food from Benevo. Complete vegan dry dog food. Wheat free dried kibble, hypoallergenic & healthy. Holistic & non-gm 2kg bag
Features
- [ NUTRITION YOU CAN TRUST ] With crucial fatty acids, prebiotics, and non-animal taurine, Benevo Vegan Dog Food is your one-stop solution for nurturing your dog’s growth. Plus, you’re supporting their well-being without the need for slaughterhouse meat!
- [ FOR SENSITIVE TUMS ] Our wheat-free, meat-free, and dairy-free recipe is designed with your dog's sensitive tummy in mind. Free from meat proteins & wheat gluten, this dog kibble is an ideal choice for pooches with dietary sensitivities.
- [ 27.5% PLANT-BASED PROTEIN ] Each bowl of pet food is packed with plant-based protein to fuel your dog’s active lifestyle. With 27.5% protein in every bowl, you can rely on Benevo dog food to keep noses wet & tails wagging.
- [ TRUSTED FOR OVER A DECADE ] Proudly made in the UK, Benevo Vegan Dog food is formulated to meet the European nutritional levels set out by FEDIAF, making it the perfect choice for your pampered pooch. With over 15 years experience, we put your dog’s health and happiness first.
- [ PETA & VEGAN SOCIETY APPROVED ] As a vegan-owned company, we are proud to be approved by PETA, the Vegan Society UK, and Vegetarian Society UK. Plus, we have consistently maintained an ethical company score of 100/100 since 2016!
James Wellbeloved Complete Dry Puppy Junior Dog Food Turkey and Vegetable, 1.5 kg
£12.29
Features
- Hypoallergenic dog food for pets with sensitivities, selected natural ingredients, no added artificial flavours, colours, or antioxidants
- Grain free puppy and Junior dog food with a single source animal protein recipe excludes common allergens beef, pork, soya, eggs, dairy and wheat with natural prebiotics for mature dogs' healthy digestion
- Dog food dry with vitamin E and minerals to support growing dogs' immune system, balanced calcium and phosphorus to support healthy growth
- Turkey meal - A delicious source of protein with essential minerals, peas a natural source of protein, potato a highly digestible carbohydrate
- Chicory extract – A source of prebiotic inulin helping to maintain the gut flora, yucca a natural deodoriser for less smelly poos, smaller kibble for puppies' smaller mouths
Beta Puppy Dry Dog Food Chicken, 14kg
£27.99
Features
- Chicken is # 1 ingredient. RICH IN CHICKEN
- No added artificial colours, flavours or preservatives
- Made with selected natural ingredients. Made in the UK.(RECYCLING INFORMATION:Recycle at Large Supermarkets)
- With a natural prebiotic proven to help support digestive health
- Dual shape and size kibbles
Skinner’s Field & Trial Grain Free Chicken & Sweet Potato 15kg – Complete Dry Adult Dog Food, For Dogs with Intolerance to Grains
£45.25
Features
- DIETARY NEEDS - Field & Trial Grain Free Chicken & Sweet Potato is a nutritionally complete dog food, specially formulated to support the requirements of a range of active dogs, while removing grain-based sources of carbohydrates. This may be of benefit to those dogs with sensitivities or intolerances to grains.
- HERITAGE BRAND - The Stradbroke Mill in Suffolk has been in the Skinner family for seven generations and has been manufacturing complete dog foods since the early 1970s.
- NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE - Skinner’s Field & Trial now offers a range of 19 nutritionally complete diets for active and working dogs of every age, breed and activity level.
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Skinner’s does not add any artificial colouring, flavours or preservatives to any of our products, where possible we try and use locally sourced ingredients surrounding our Suffolk mill.
- SENSITIVE SUPPORT - Field & Trial Grain Free Chicken & Sweet Potato contains highly digestible chicken and contains essential fats from linseeds to support energy output as well as coat and skin condition, it is formulated without wheat, maize, barley or oats. “Packaging may vary”.
The particular best for the dog – relating to this saying, many dog owners lovingly care for their pets. The four-legged friends need attention and occupation, but most importantly, of course, food. The foodstuff is crucial to ensure that the dog comes with all the important nutrition 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. Numerous questions arise: What nutritional requirements does the dog have in addition to what quantity? Which in turn food is appropriate from which age? Is usually dry or wet food the right choice for your four-legged friend? And just how much should the dog be given? 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 pet dogs the products are suitable. Inside our guide, we describe the types of dog food, go into some of the constituents and clarify how much food a dog needs. In addition, you will understand which foods dogs cannot put up with and exactly how you can recognise a food allergy.
The different types of dog food at a glance
Simply as every person has their own nutritional needs, every dog’s preferences are different. The choice of food that moves 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 carbohydrates, fats, oils, protein and minerals. His dog food should be balanced. More mature dogs have a slow metabolism and are no longer as active. Therefore, they need less energy, i. e. calories from fat. Nevertheless , the dog food should be easy to process and include a great deal of proteins. In addition, the types of food fluctuate in terms of composition, technique of creation and consistency.
Composition – complete or complementary food?
A complete feed consists of all the nutrients the dog needs on a daily basis. The portion of proteins, fatty acids, nutritional supplements is different depending on the product. The ingredients should be adapted to 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 it is.
Type of production
– Dry food and wet food available in pet shops and grocery stores usually comes from commercial production. This is the most typical kind of dog food. Industrially produced wet food is often filled in cans or small aluminium trays. Together with the latter, one bowl is sufficient for one portion. Nevertheless, some manufacturers of business dog food use genetically revised raw materials and additives.
Industrially produced dog food has a long shelf life. With a few exclusions, this dog food can be stored unopened for quite some time with no loss of quality.
– Natural dog food only uses raw materials that come from grow, animal or other natural sources – unaltered or highly processed. The food must not contain any chemically synthesised additives. Nevertheless , certain synthetic minerals and vitamins are permitted. In words of packaging, there is often almost no difference compared to professional food: natural dog food is packaged in containers or as dry out food.
– Organic dog food must comply with stricter guidelines regarding elements. For example, the product should not contain numerous substances such as genetically modified ingredients, hormones and pesticides. You will discover variations between the various natural dog foods: “100 per cent organic” means that no undesirable ingredients have been prepared. With all the claim “organic”, the constituents in the organic food are 95 per dollar organic. If it says “made with organic”, the product consists of 70 per penny organic and natural ingredients. Organic and natural food is available as dry and wet food.
– Meanwhile, vegan and vegetarian dog food is available too on the market. This dog food would not contain meat and still provides the dog with the important nutrients. Nevertheless , vegan and vegan dog food contains a lot of fresh vegetables and grains, which can cause problems if the dog is intolerant.
– A special form of dog food is BARF. The abbreviation stands for “biologically species-appropriate raw feeding”. This species-appropriate method of nourishing raw food is based on the dog’s ancestor – the wolf. When ever barfing, the dog is fed raw fresh meat, often along with raw, pureed fruit or fresh vegetables. Whether this method is actually more healthy is debatable. Because the meals are put together individually, barfing is more well suited for experienced dog owners who have analyzed this 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 dog or cat 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 give the food a much better smell and preference. Some dog fans also avoid pet food/dog food from factory farming.
Difference between extruded and cold-pressed dried hitch
Dried dog food is produced by the cold-pressing or extrusion process:
1. Cold-pressed dog food is created by first drying the uncooked materials and then grinding and mixing them. A tool presses this mass through the openings of a drum wall. Shaped and compacted chunks of feed come out the other side. Throughout the dog food production process, temps of around 90 certifications Celsius are generated, which obviously contradicts the word cold hitting. Nevertheless , temperatures are still significantly lower than those employed in extrusion.
2. In the extrusion process, the ingredients for your dog food are exposed to high temperatures. Many nutrients are lost during this manufacturing process. These kinds of must be artificially added to the foodstuff after processing. During processing, the dough-like extruded feed is conveyed through nozzles at high pressure. Give food to produced in this way swells considerably when liquid is added.
Both methods have advantages and disadvantages: Because the nutrients have not yet been broken down, a dog can digest the cold-pressed food naturally, little by little. In addition, the food includes more natural substances. In case 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 a supplementary factor in figuring out the tolerability and quality of the foodstuff. The most important thing is the quality of the unprocessed trash.
Which is better – wet food or dried out food?
There exists damp and dry dog food on the market. The two types of dog food differ in their water content.
Dry food includes very little water and therefore has a longer shelf life – often several years. Dogs that are fed dry food have to chew more and therefore teach their teeth. Ingesting dry food is practically like brushing your dog’s teeth. Intended for dogs that drink little, feeding dry food can be considered a disadvantage. They can become dehydrated if they are provided only dry food. Therefore, it is important to provide the dog with enough water. The advantages and disadvantages of dry food at a glance:
Pros
- Long shelf life
- Less expensive than damp food
- Easier to feed on the go
- Easy to store
- Almost germ-free due to heating system during production
- Even more green than canned food
Cons
- Often less acceptable to the dog
- The dog’s body is deprived of water, so it has to drink more.
- Can lead to overweight more quickly if it is not a diet food
- 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. Frequently one package of wet food compares to one meal. A large number of dogs like damp food much better than dry food. In contrast to dry food, moist food for dogs – once opened – can only be kept for a few days and nights. It should be used up within 2 times of opening. Under we have summarised the huge benefits and down sides of wet food:
Pros
- High acceptance by most four-legged friends
- Packed in convenient portions
- Mainly because of the high water content in wet food, your dog does not need so much additional liquid.
- If necessary, medication can be administered with the wet food.
Cons
- After opening, damp food cannot be stored very well
- Good sized dogs need more space for storage
- More difficult to hold and feed on the move
- Wet food smells more intense
- Costs more than dry food
- Produces more waste
It is not possible to make a general statement about which type of dog food is ideal for your dog. The dog ultimately decides which dog food it likes and which variety it prefers. To find out which type of dog food your dog likes better and which he tolerates better, you should try out both types.
Several dog owners switch between wet and dry food. The following relates to both types of food: It should only be given as a main meal, never as a treat in between meals. This kind of can lead to overfeeding of your dog.
How much meat and exactly how many sugars and nutrients belong 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 your canine food is also crucial for good digestion and the health of the four-legged friend.
How much meat should the food contain?
Dogs are originated from wolves – that is why their digestive area is similar to that of predators. Thus above all, the resource of meat is important. Yet , 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 digestion. For example, the dog’s digestive enzyme can now break down starch, meaning that the four-legged friend can also digest flower food in smaller quantities.
Above all, various meats provides the dog with protein. The four-legged friend needs protein for its muscles, bones, strong tissues, healthy tooth and nerves and to provide energy for its activities. Therefore, senior dogs have a lower protein requirement because they are not as lively as young or adult animals. In general, experts admit dog food should contain between 50 and 70 percent meat. But other ingredients are important too. If dog owners feed only meats with their four-legged friends, this may lead to an issue with digestion, stress on the kidneys and liver due to excess protein and deficiency symptoms.
Vitamin supplements, minerals and sugars in dog food?
A well-balanced dog diet also contains nutrients that are not found in meat – for example , vitamins and mineral deposits found in fruits and veggies, or fatty acids from healthy oils. The four-legged good 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. However, the need for carbohydrates is low. Fillers from plant waste such as press residues from oil production, stalks, husks or straw are often 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 meals should contain these substances only in moderation. How much should maintain the dog food depends upon how much the animal moves. Lamb and poultry fat are saturated oily acids. They are stored in the body as emergency portion and are intended as a reserve for bad times. Meat and veggie oil contain condensed omega-6 fatty acids and unsaturated oily acids. Omega-3 herbal oils, which are present in fish, are extremely valuable for cell metabolism.
What should be in the dog food? Dog food should consist of 50 to 70 per cent lean meat or muscle meat or fish with superior quality proteins. In addition, there ought to be about 20 to 50 per cent 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 nutrition such as biotin or iron. Good quality oils such as salmon oil or linseed oil based improve nutrient ingestion and ensure a functioning cardiovascular system, a shiny coat and healthy skin area.
How do i recognise high-quality dog food?
Dog food sold in UK must be labelled with certain mandatory information. These kinds of include:
– Treat and name of the manufacturer
– Date of produce or best-before day of the dog food
– Name of the food
– 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 teams. These are, for instance , statements such as “with cereals” and “vegetable by-products”. A semi-open declaration data the individual uncooked materials, but not their percentage. The start declaration provides the composition in pct and the respective options of raw materials. When reading the food label, dog owners should also note the following:
1. Many manufacturers split the term grain into individual groups. The reason for this is that the large total quantity appears smaller. For example, maize becomes maize starch, maize feed meal, 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 ingredients in the feed are listed in descending order according to their volume. The further forwards an ingredient is listed on the label, the greater its proportion. Conversely, what this means is: Only a little proportion of an ingredient that is listed far throughout 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 veg content between 25 and 50 percent
– Balanced elements with all the necessary vitamins and minerals
– No use of flavour enhancers
These nutrients make a good dog food
The dog’s organism does not have any 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 detailed under the term “analytical ingredients”. We now 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 your canine food. Producers often do not declare exactly what is engaged. It may be high-quality muscle meat or offal as well as low-quality offal. The latter includes, among other things, jerky, rumen or chaps. Animal by-products include, for instance , hair, bone fragments, hooves, blood or beaks.
2. Fish as well as by-products include fish fillets, our bones and fish mind.
3. Plant by-products include, for example, vegetables, cereals and pulses and olive oil fruits. They are to some extent health- and digestion-promoting food components.
4. Technological additives are preservatives, separating and binding agents, stabilisers, thickening and gelling agents and acidity regulators. A few of these are important. These include, for instance , emulsifiers and natural antioxidants. Emulsifiers ensure an uniform consistency of oil and water. Natural anti-oxidants are to prevent rancid fat.
5. Nutritional additives are intended to support the health of the four-legged friend. They should be within the right composition, for example as vitamins, provitamins, amino acids and search for 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 utilized to influence the appearance and taste of your canine food. That they include flavourings and colourings.
Overweight canines suffer! Obesity is a growing problem in dogs with serious health consequences. This can lead to diseases of bodily organs, puts stress on bones, joints and the cardiovascular system, and promotes irritation. Additionally, it may shorten the life expectancy of the animal. Frequently , too much food is the reason for overweight. Yet age, sex and breed also may play a role. Especially Cocker Spaniels, Labrador Retrievers and King Charles tend to become overweight. At times the use of diet food should be considered.
How much food does my dog need?
If the four-legged friend gets more energy than he consumes, he can become overweight. Therefore, it is very important to give canines the right amount of food. Just 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 friend moves determines the amount of energy it burns. A dog 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. Accordingly, he needs less food.
Age: More youthful dogs are still growing and are often more curious and active. They usually have a higher energy requirement than old dogs. It is a good idea to reduce the quantity of food a little annually. For more mature dogs, there are senior foods that are reduced body fat and contain important additives. For smaller dogs it is time to change at the age 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 include cardiovascular problems, thyroid disease, joint disease and diabetes. Once dogs are recovering from illness, they need more pet food.
Hormone balance: A dog’s hormone 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 calorie content of your canine food. A higher calorie content means a lesser amount of food is needed. Additionally, dog owners can use the subsequent rules of thumb as a guide:
– The daily amount of food for an adult and healthy dog with an ordinary activity level should be about two to three pct 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 percent of his body weight.
– Snacks should not exceed 10 per cent of the daily food requirement.
Any person who is not sure about the right amount of food should talk to a vet and a nutritionist.
How can I identify a food allergy?
The most common allergies in dogs are flea allergy and food allergy. Possible triggers of the allergy are, for example , stress, parasites and pollen. In addition, the protein-containing substances in a feed can result in allergic reactions. Ingredients that a dog might be allergic to include, for instance , soy, animal proteins from poultry, pork or beef, and grain.
What is the between an allergic reaction and an intolerance?
– An allergy is a hypersensitivity response by the dog’s immune system. That reacts strongly against a certain material. A true food allergic reaction rarely occurs in dogs. Mostly it is an intolerance. This is not triggered by the immune system.
– Likely indications of allergies and intolerances
– Possible symptoms of a food allergy or food intolerance include itching, vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhoea, loss of fur, redness and frequent scratching.
– Symptoms may not show up soon after feeding the food. Sometimes they only appear a few hours or days later.
On the other hand, the symptoms do not really have to indicate an allergy or intolerance. They will may also be caused by another disease. In the event your dog has these symptoms, you should have the cause cleared up with a vet. The vet can also determine an allergy or intolerance or an intolerance, for instance , through an allergy test. Alternatively, it is possible to carry out an exemption 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 way to obtain protein and sugars. These sources must be ingredients that the four-legged friend has not eaten before. Dog owners should change the dog food bit by little bit. Following the food change, the dog is fed the new food for a number of weeks.
When the dog’s condition enhances and the symptoms no longer occur, a provocation test is completed. Here, the dog owner has to feed his four-legged friend one substance at a time, which could be the trigger for the allergy symptoms. More than time, a list is made of substances that the dog can endure or that cause allergic reactions in him. An removal diet is something that dog owners can do themselves. On the other hand, it is advisable to consult a professional or talk to the vet ahead of time.
Consistent action is essential during an exemption diet. The dog really should not be given chews, treats or leftovers during this time.
What should I do if my dog has an allergy?
If it turns out that your four-legged good friend has a food allergy or food intolerance, the dog should will no longer eat the allergy-causing substances. The selected pet food must therefore not contain any substances that your canine cannot tolerate. The same applies to treats and everything dog snacks between meals.
If absolutely nothing changes, patience is necesary: sometimes it calls for a little while until the symptoms of an intolerance or allergy no longer take place. Sometimes they only disappear completely weeks following the change in food.
What is grain-free dog food?
Doggie food often contains grains. Such as wheat, barley and rye, for example. Grain have an important function: they are a source of carbohydrates and energy. However, too much of it results in obesity and sometimes to a problem with digestion. There is also grain-free dog food. Instead of materials, it contains alternate ingredients such as potatoes and legumes, which also provide carbohydrates to the dog.
Grain-free dog food usually makes digestion easier and is also also suitable for more sensitive dogs. Nevertheless , it is not necessarily necessary to use a grain-free dog food. Dogs are omnivores and are able to break down vegetable protein. Some types of materials are also specifically easy to digest. Such as maize and rice, for example. In some cases, however, it makes sense or is necessary to use a dog food without materials. This is especially true if the dog is allergic to food containing cereals.
If you want to give your puppy a dog food with grain, you should make sure that the grain content is not too much 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 even poisonous for canines. These include, for example, onions, organic cabbage and organic 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 a dog eats raw cabbage, it can get stomach cramps or flatulence. Raw pork could contain the Aujeszky virus, that causes fatal disease. Other foods and drinks that pet dogs must not eat include:
- Chocolates
- Raw taters
- Fruit
- Sultanas
- Fruit starts
- Raw pulses
- Macadamia nuts
- Bitter walnuts
- Raw eggs
- Some types of avocado
- Birch sugars and xylitol
- Cream and milk
- Caffeinated drinks, such as espresso
- Alcohol
Furthermore, nicotine is dangerous for dogs. Therefore, caution is recommended in rain puddles, for example: Cigarette residues can be found in them. Ashtrays should be put 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 crisis service directly. In the mean time, keep the dog in a secure environment. Nevertheless, despite all the concern for the dog’s life, the following applies: Stay calm and watch to signs of poisoning. It might 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 desire
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Aches
- Trouble sleeping
- Shortness of breath
To prevent your dog from eating incompatible foods, dog owners should make sure that family members and acquaintances do not feed them such foods. In addition, it is necessary to train the dog well so that it does not constantly eat anything at all from the side of the road.
The best choice is the ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG.
ROYAL CANIN Westie 21 Wholesome and Natural Adult Dry Dog Food 3KG
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier, Suitable for West Highland Terriers from 10 months old throughout their lives.
- Royal Canin Adult Complete Dog Food for West Highland Terrier is a complete dog food that has been specially formulated to meet the needs of the West Highland Terrier breed and provides optimal support for their unique physiology.
Video about best dry dog food for westies
FAQ – Common 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 need a different dog food than adult canines. 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 elements of puppy dog food are specially created for growing canines. This is because a baby dog’s immune system, bones, muscles, coat and teeth first have to develop.
With puppy dog food, the focus is on nutrient intake. Over all, the pup food must contain certain essential minerals and vitamins. So that the puppy’s digestive system is not overtaxed, the food for puppies also has a lower food volume than the dog food for adult quadrupeds. Found in the beginning, young dogs should be given small portions a couple of times a day, which are then slowly and gradually increased.
When should I start using dog food for adult dogs?
This kind of will depend on the breed of dog: Small to medium breeds are viewed as adults 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 puppies, the change in diet should take place between 10 and 12 years of age. For medium-sized dogs, its about time at 8 to 9 years. Large different breeds are considered older at 7 to 8 years old. In addition to age, the dog’s state of health is also an important criterion. It is a good idea to discuss the change of food with the vet.
What is the best way to store dry food?
The dry food should be retained in an foolproof 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 food can become “sticky” and lose its taste and nutrients. At worst, mould can develop.
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 organic feeding”. The species-appropriate diet is based 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, natural oils and carbohydrates for a balanced supply of nutrients. Meanwhile, compound 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 notify yourself well or seek advice from with experts.
What do I actually have to consider when changing my dog’s food?
The change of food should be done slowly. In the event the changeover is abrupt, sensitive dogs in particular can easily suffer from digestive problems, some of that can be considerable. A time 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 an one fourth of the dog’s usual food with the new food. On the 3 rd 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 move is complete.
If the dog responds sensitively and, for example , gets diarrhoea in the first few days of the food change, you should extend the version phase and increase the addition of the new food only minimally. If your dog does not tolerate the new food whatsoever, it is obviously not well suited for him. In this instance, you should look for an option.
What should We 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. If the food has already swollen in water, it fills the dog up faster and is better to digest. In addition, the dogs absorb more liquid with condensed dry food.
How fast do dogs digest 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 old animal. The number of food is also important. Little portions are digested more quickly than large amounts. In addition, insoluble fibers remain in the stomach for a shorter time than soluble fibres. Low-fat food also results in faster digestion. Additionally , the more water the meals is, the short the digestion time. Wet food is digested within 6 to 8 hours in mature dogs.
Are creature tests carried out for dog food?
You will find quite a few manufacturers who carry out animal experiments to test the effects and tolerance of their newly developed types of food. PETA’s website publishes a set 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 can I start nourishing a puppy?
During the first weeks of its life, a puppy is given breast milk by its mother. Solid food is usually eaten by puppies from the 3rd or 4th week of life. During this time, the mother continually nourish her puppies with breast milk in parallel. To be able to accustom a puppy to dry food, it makes sense to moisten or dilute it which includes liquid – for example with puppy milk. From the 6th to 7th week of life, the puppy is normally no more provided with mother’s milk.
Experts recommend soaking dry puppy food with a water until the puppy dog is 5 or 6 months old. To get the puppy used to the harder food, blend more and more non-soaked food pieces over time.
Making dog food yourself – does indeed it sound right?
Producing your own dog food takes more time and work than bought food. However, it really does have some advantages:
– In the event you make the dog food yourself, you can make a decision for yourself which ingredients go into it.
– Doggie owners range from the special needs of their four-legged friend in the planning and adapt the food 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 might be sensible or required to prepare the food yourself. Before preparing the foodstuff, you should study the different substances. The foodstuff should be balanced and contain all the necessary nutrients. It is sometimes a good idea to talk to a vet ahead of time. Recipe ideas for dog food can be found on the Internet, for example.
Certain foods are unhealthy or toxic for dogs. For example, onions and garlic should not be ingested by dogs.
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog food is especially ideal for dogs with allergies. It is adapted to the needs of such a four-legged friend and can be easily broken down by the dog. Right now there is hypoallergenic dry out food and hypoallergenic wet food on the market. That contains few or no substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs. Accordingly, a hypoallergenic food reduces the risk that your canine will not tolerate it and that allergic reactions will occur.
Usually there is merely one source of proteins in such a product. This is usually an exotic meat, such as kangaroo or drinking water buffalo. Normally, the protein source used very rarely triggers an intolerance. Even so, it cannot be ruled out that even hypoallergenic dog food can business lead to allergies. This kind of happens when we have a substance in the meals that the four-legged friend cannot put up with.
In addition to dogs with allergies, hypoallergenic food is well suited for four-legged friends with a delicate gastrointestinal system. For these dogs, such a product provides prevention of digestive problems.
