Perfect Picks: Best Dog Food For West Highland Terriers

The West Highland Terriers are quite a popular dog breed from Scotland. They are more commonly known as the Westie. The West Highland Terrier is a small to medium sized terrier. Its distinctive round face is covered in white fur. They have a white, double coat of fur that flows down to their legs.

With its pointed ears and long tail, these dogs were often used to hunt rodents. West Highland Terriers are a highly intelligent breed that is quick to train and learn.

They are good with children, highly social and enjoy exercise and stimulation. Kids playing too rough however isn’t great for the West Highland Terrier.

Male West Highland Terrier can range in size from 15-22 pounds and 10-12 inches while the females range from 13-15 pounds and 9-11 inches. There are typically three to five puppies born in a litter.

Their lifespan can range from 12-17 years. Westies are a very popular breed in the U.K. and the United States. Since the 1960s, they are among the top third of all of the breeds in the United States.

 

Best Dog Food For West Highland Terriers

There are great dog food recipes for sale today that will help make sure your West Highland Terrier is getting everything she will need to live her best life. Check out our picks for all ages of West Highland Terriers.

1. Ollie Fresh Pet Food Delivery

Ollie is custom designed, restaurant grade food. You start with going to their website to make a profile for your Westie. Information is gathered about their size, breed, dietary restrictions, allergies, weight and age.

They can then customize your Westie’s dog food. Next, you’ll be given a recipe with the exact portion size, so you won’t have to guess how much they need to eat. Food will then be delivered to your door on a schedule. This way, you’ll never run out.

It comes in slimmer, vacuum-sealed packs which can be placed in your refrigerator or freezer up to 24 hours before it’s given to your dog.

Food can last 14-days in your refrigerator if the trays aren’t opened. You’ll also receive a scooper for portion control. Best part is that they will give you a free Puptainer – a refillable tray that is food safe, microwave safe and dishwasher safe.

---

2. AvoDerm Advanced Sensitive Support Beef Formula

A kibble that is specially crafted to meet the unique needs of small breed dogs with food sensitivities or picky appetites.

This premium dog food features a single animal protein source—succulent beef—as the first ingredient, ensuring high-quality, easily digestible protein to support lean muscle maintenance and overall health.

The grain-free formula eliminates common allergens like corn, wheat and soy, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food-related intolerances.

Infused with avocado and avocado oil, the recipe provides a rich source of omega fatty acids, which promote a healthy coat, vibrant skin, and strong immune function.

It is also enriched with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support your small dog's overall well-being. The small kibble size is tailored for smaller mouths, ensuring an easy chewing and feeding experience. It is also free from artificial colors, flavors and preservatives.

---

3. PetPlate Human Grade Lip Lickin' Lamb Entree

Your furry companion may not sit at the dinner table, but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t enjoy meals that are as wholesome and delicious as anything served there.

This scrumptious meal is crafted with care, featuring high-quality, human-grade ingredients like protein-packed lamb, crisp apples, vibrant broccoli and a medley of colorful fruits and vegetables.

Each entrée is thoughtfully prepared in small batches through gentle cooking methods to retain essential nutrients, ensuring your dog gets the very best in every bite.

After cooking, the meals are frozen to lock in freshness naturally, without relying on artificial preservatives. Lamb, as a novel protein, is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitivities to more common proteins like beef or chicken, making this recipe both nutritious and allergy-friendly.

This complete and balanced formula is made in the USA in human-grade kitchens, adhering to the highest standards of quality and safety.

Serve it as a standalone meal or as a tasty topper to elevate your dog’s daily dining experience—because your pup deserves nothing less than the best.

---

4. Freshpet Vital Small Breed Chicken Recipe

This is a premium dog food that prioritizes the health and well-being of small breed dogs. Made with real chicken as the main ingredient, this grain-free recipe is packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to support your dog's overall health.

Freshpet takes pride in using fresh ingredients, sourced from trusted farmers, and their gentle cooking process ensures that the food retains maximum nutritional value.

Free from artificial preservatives, fillers and grains, this dog food is easily digestible and perfect for dogs with food sensitivities.

Plus, its delicious taste will have your small breed dog eagerly wagging their tail at mealtime. Give your furry friend the best with this tasty fresh food.

---

5. Nature's Recipe Chicken, Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe

Featuring real chicken as the first ingredient, this protein-rich formula supports strong muscles and energy levels, perfect for active small dogs.

Complemented by sweet potatoes and pumpkin, this grain-free recipe provides easily digestible carbohydrates and fiber to promote healthy digestion, making it ideal for dogs with food sensitivities or grain intolerances.

The formula is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health and a strong immune system, while omega fatty acids from natural sources help maintain a shiny coat and healthy skin.

The small kibble size is tailored for little mouths, ensuring easy chewing and a satisfying mealtime experience. Free from anything artificial and preservatives, Nature’s Recipe is a wholesome, natural choice that lets your furry friend thrive every day.

Crafted with care and backed by decades of expertise, this recipe is as nutritious as it is delicious—because your dog deserves only the best.

---

6. Purina Beneful IncrediBites Variety Pack 

Treat your small dog to a feast of big, bold flavors and wholesome nutrition with this variety pack wet food.

Each recipe is carefully crafted with tender, bite-sized chunks, perfectly sized for little mouths and teeth. Featuring real farm-raised beef, chicken, or salmon as the star ingredient, these protein-rich meals are designed to satisfy your pup’s cravings while supporting strong muscles and overall vitality.

Every variety is thoughtfully prepared to deliver 100% complete and balanced nutrition, tailored specifically for small-breed adult dogs. Packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, these meals help promote a healthy lifestyle from the inside out.

Free from preservatives, the recipes include a blend of high-quality proteins paired with other nutritious ingredients, ensuring each bite is as wholesome as it is delicious.

Whether you’re serving up savory beef, tender chicken or tasty salmon, your furry friend will enjoy a mealtime experience that’s both nutritious and exciting.

With this variety pack, you can make every meal a celebration, keeping tails wagging and taste buds delighted.

---

7. Smallbatch Pets Pork Sliders 

This is a premium, wholesome meal designed to nourish your dog with the finest ingredients. Made with antibiotic-free pork as the main protein source, this recipe delivers rich, high-quality protein to support strong muscles and overall vitality.

The formula is enhanced with non-GMO, pesticide-free produce, including nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for optimal health.

Crafted with care in small batches in the USA, this freeze-dried dog food ensures maximum nutrition and freshness in every bite.

Free from grains, corn, wheat, soy, and gluten, it’s an excellent choice for dogs with sensitivities or specific dietary needs. Each slider is gently freeze-dried to preserve natural flavors and nutrients, offering a raw diet's benefits in a convenient, shelf-stable format.

Whether served as a complete meal or as a topper, these sliders are a delicious and nutritious way to fuel your dog’s active lifestyle while prioritizing their health and well-being.

---

8. Nutro Ultra Small Breed Formula

Nutro Ultra is a Superfood Blend made for active, adult dogs. You’ll find proteins, amino acids, vegetables, fruit and essential oils in this jam packed food. This recipe is also made without preservatives, artificial colors and flavors.

Nutro makes all of their foods in their own facility centers with recipes catered to the age of your dog. The make foods for adults, puppies and seniors. Their all-natural ingredients are also sourced from local suppliers.

---

 

Best Puppy Food For Westies

Puppies should be fed food designed with everything they need for healthy development. A puppy needs to be fed portions that are smaller more often throughout the day. West Highland Terriers are a small sized breed, so you’ll want to start mixing in adult food at eight months old.

1. Nulo Freestyle Lamb & Sweet Potato Small Breed & Puppy Recipe

This is a delicious, nutrient-packed meal thoughtfully crafted to meet the unique needs of small breed dogs and puppies.

Made with real lamb as the first ingredient, this protein-rich recipe helps support lean muscle growth and development, giving your furry friend the energy they need to thrive.

Sweet potatoes provide a wholesome, easily digestible source of complex carbohydrates, while a blend of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants ensures a complete and balanced diet.

Specifically designed for small breeds and growing puppies, this grain-free formula is free from common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, making it an excellent choice for pets with food sensitivities.

It also contains omega fatty acids to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin, while the rich, savory flavor satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Crafted with care and free from artificial preservatives, this canned dog food is as natural as it is nutritious.

If you pup has a food allergy, there is no soy, corn or wheat used in this recipe.  It can be used for your puppy and also as a topper for adult dogs.

---

2. Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Puppy Formula

This recipe is formulated with salmon, peas and sweet potatoes that deliver the highly-digestible energy for your growing Westie puppy’s needs.

There is also natural antioxidant support from fruits and vegetables. Dried chicory root helps prebiotic support and healthy digestion.

Each recipe is also chocked-full of omega fatty acids for a healthy coat. Ingredients come from sustainable, trusted sources free of fillers, grain, corn, and preservatives.

Taste of the Wild is headquartered in Missouri. Their U.S. based facilities create a quality dog and cat food made with the highest nutritional standards.

---

Best Dog Food For Senior Westies

As a dog's age, their needs begin to change and their diet should also adjust. A low calorie diet filled with protein and fiber is ideal for your senior dog.

You should reduce the calories as your dog ages. Since older dogs may gain weight and become less active, it be stressful on their joints and heart.

1. Tiki Dog Mousse Senior Chicken, Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe

This flavorful and functional wet food designed to support their golden years with optimal nutrition and irresistible taste.

Made with high-quality chicken and lamb, this protein-packed formula supports muscle maintenance and overall vitality in aging pups.

The addition of pumpkin provides a gentle source of fiber, promoting healthy digestion and easing sensitive stomachs.

Designed with your senior dog's health in mind, this recipe is enriched with antioxidants from vitamins A and E to support a robust immune system, helping your furry friend stay active and thriving.

Convenience meets quality with the easy-to-use, single-serving pouch, making mealtime quick, mess-free and perfectly portioned. This grain-free formula is free from common allergens like corn, wheat and soy, making it ideal for dogs with dietary sensitivities.

Whether served as a complete meal or a topper to enhance their usual diet, this meal delivers smooth, velvety goodness that’s easy to eat and packed with nourishment.

---

2. Hill's Science Diet Senior Adult 7+ Small Bites

This is a specially formulated meal designed to support the unique nutritional needs of senior dogs aged seven and older.

As a veterinarian-recommended brand, this premium dog food is made with high-quality ingredients you can trust, starting with chicken meal as a key protein source to help maintain lean muscles and energy levels.

Enriched with a precise blend of nutrients, it supports ideal weight management, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle for your aging companion.

This recipe includes barley and rice for easily digestible carbohydrates that provide steady energy throughout the day. Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E work together to nourish the skin and promote a shiny, healthy coat, ensuring your senior dog looks and feels their best.

The small kibble size is designed for older dogs with smaller mouths, making mealtime easy and enjoyable. Manufactured in the United States under strict quality standards, this formula is free from artificial flavors, colors and preservatives, ensuring only the best for your furry friend.

---

Why Quality Food Matters

The type and quality of your West Highland Terrier’s food can a make a big difference in their overall health and well-being. You naturally want to feed them the best so that they feel their best.

When you buy inexpensive, low-quality food, they are often filled with harmful chemicals and meat byproducts. Artificial preservatives such as BHA, BHT and sodium nitrate can be very harmful to your dog. Low-quality food may contain some common allergens found in dogs.

Common Health Issues In Westies

All breeds of dogs can suffer from health issues. Here are a some known health problems that may be found in West Highland Terriers, including their symptoms and treatment.

Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS) – Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca is also called dry eye. Westies are prone to having this minor and common health problem. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca is a condition in which the cornea and the tissues surrounding the cornea become inflamed from the dryness of the eye.

This condition is caused by the inadequate production of tear film produced by the eyelid gland. The symptoms include squinting, blinking and red, irritated eyes. The treatment of dry eye includes replacing tear film and stimulating tear production through drops that can be placed in your dog’s eyes daily.

Copper Toxicosis – Copper Toxicosis is a disorder in which copper accumulates. This can result in liver disease. This is a hereditary disease that may result in death in later stages. Westies are more prone to the disease because of their genetic predisposition.

Signs of the disease are all related to liver function and liver tissue. Some of the outward signs to watch out for at sleepiness, depression, vomiting, weight loss, and diarrhea. Westies suffering from this condition may also urinate frequently and will have excessive thirst.

Patellar Luxation – Patellar Luxation is also known as kneecap dislocation. When a dog's kneecap is dislocated from its natural position it won't go back until the dog relaxes their leg and muscles. Westies with this condition will often hold up their hind legs for minutes at a time.

Dogs will rarely feel pain or discomfort from the dislocation after the initial separation. Surgery may help in extreme cases but most often dogs can live with the condition without too much restriction or pain. Because it’s hereditary, dogs with the condition aren’t used for breeding whenever possible.

Legg-Perthes Disease – Legg-Perthes Disease is also known as the disintegration of the hip joints in dogs. The femur bone in the dog's hind leg starts to degenerate. This will cause disintegration of the hip joint and joint inflammation.

This disease is commonly found in small breeds and there is some genetic predisposition in terriers. Dogs can be diagnosed through x-rays and a physical exam. Surgery may be performed in extreme cases. Physical therapy and regular exercise can be used at treatment in some cases. If a West Highland Terrier is diagnosed with the condition, they will typically be discouraged from breeding.

Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO) – Craniomandibular Osteopathy (CMO) is commonly known as jawbone enlargement. This condition causes an extra bone to form along the lower and upper jaw bones. This makes it difficult for a dog to open its mouth and even eat.

The disease is usually detected early is puppies. Symptoms include pain or difficulty opening their mouth, difficulty chewing, swelling in the jaw and excessive drooling. The disease is inherited and there is a strong genetic predisposition in West Highland Terriers.

Treatments include medication to reduce swelling, a special diet that is easier for your dog to eat and surgery in some cases. With surgery, they can often repair the jaw bone to help make your dog's jaw more comfortable.

What To Look For In A Quality Dog Food

High-quality food can make a big difference in the overall health of your dog. High-quality dog food will contain the right number of vitamins and protein to help your Westie stay healthy and active for many years to come. Vitamins and minerals will also keep your Westie’s white coat looking sleek and shiny.

When you read food labels for your Westie, you’ll want to watch out for ingredients that are natural such as meat, vegetables, and whole grains. When reading a dog food label, note that the first five are usually the most important to look at. These contain the largest amounts and go down from there.

A meat meal can sometimes be thought of as bad for your dog but ingredients like beef meal will be cooked in a way that makes it have a higher concentration of protein. The protein is  concentrated in meat meal because the moisture is taken out of it during the cooking process.

Ingredients To Avoid

Some ingredients just shouldn't be used in your dog's food. Artificial preservatives for example have been tied to cancer and numerous other health problems.

Artificial colors and artificial flavors are other ingredients to stay away from. These don’t have any nutritional value.

You should also stay away from common allergens whenever possible if you suspect a food allergy in your Westie. Allergies are found in all breeds of dogs. Chicken, soy, beef, wheat, eggs and dairy are common allergies.

If you suspect your West Highland Terrier is allergic to something he is eating, there are a few symptoms to watch for. Dry, itchy skin, and constant licking are some signs. Diarrhea and vomiting can also be signs. Check with your veterinarian if you suspect a food allergy or intolerance.

You can try to remove the allergens through an elimination method one by one after that. Your vet may even be able to pinpoint the allergy based on their symptoms. Westies are more prone to skin issues and atopic dermatitis, so it is very common for them to have an allergy. You can find quite a few dog foods that are free of these allergens if you find your West Highland Terrier has one.

Alpo, Pedigree, Ol’ Roy, Science Diet, Purina Dog Chow, and Purina Beneful, are all brands that contain some of the ingredients listed earlier as harmful. Read more on Dog Food Guide to learn more about why these products are harmful.

 

West Highland Terrier Feeding Chart

Typically, an adult Westie will east around four to six ounces of dry dog food daily. This can vary depending on the weight of your dog, the ingredients in their food and the brand you’re feeding them.

For a smaller dog such as a Westie, try and divide their meals into two. The smaller sized meals will help with their digestion and keep them full and energized throughout the day.

For puppy Westies, whether you feed them wet or dry food, they should eat more frequently. Puppy West Highland Terriers should eat three to four meals per day.

As they get closer to a year you can decrease the number of feedings to two per day. You should keep feeding your dog puppy food at least until they become fully grown. For a Westie, this is around eight months.

A senior Westie should remain on his adult diet unless he is unable to eat as much or as frequently if his health starts to diminish. A healthy senior Westie can eat the same amount as he did in his younger years if he remains active.

Takeaway

Choosing the best dog food for Westies requires careful consideration of their unique dietary needs, sensitivities, and overall health.

Westies are prone to skin allergies, digestive sensitivities, and conditions such as joint issues, so a high-quality diet tailored to these concerns is essential.

Look for recipes that include high-quality protein as the primary ingredient, beneficial fats like omega-3 and omega-6 for healthy skin/coat and easily digestible carbohydrates to support energy levels. Avoid common allergens like artificial additives, fillers or low-quality grains that may exacerbate sensitivities.

Brands offering limited-ingredient or hypoallergenic formulas can be particularly beneficial for Westies prone to food-related issues. Grain-free options, when appropriate and those fortified with essential vitamins, minerals and probiotics, are excellent choices to promote optimal health.

Whether you choose kibble, wet food or a raw/freeze-dried diet, always ensure it meets the nutritional requirements for your dog’s life stage, size, and activity level.

Ultimately, the best dog food is one that keeps your West Highland Terrier healthy, energetic and happy while addressing any specific needs or sensitivities they may have. Consulting your veterinarian can also help tailor your choice to meet your dog’s unique requirements.