Hello all
I've taken a look at some of the posts here, and actually read every single post in the 'sticky - 5 best dog foods' thread. However, most of the several years ago, and I thought things might have changed.
I am hoping to welcome a young Westie (West highland White Terrier, for those not familiar) companion into the family soon. This will be the first time I have been in control of the dog food. I had a Westie as a child, but food choices in the mid 90's in the UK are vastly different from what is on offer here in the US today. My parents got a couple of westie pups just over a year ago, and my dad researched food, and found a knowledgeable pet store owner who helped him make a choice. However, that food is not available here, and while the company does ship outside the UK, they don't ship to the US. The Natural Dog Food Company … where good health comes naturally [All in One Puppy Chicken
ried British Chicken (min 29%), Fresh British Chicken (min 26%), Whole Brown Rice (min 20%), Mixed Vegetables and Herbs (min 9%), Whole Barley, Linseed, Refined Chicken Oil, Brewer’s Yeast.
Typical Analysis: Protein 25%, Oil 11.0%, Fibre 3%, Ash 6%]
I've been trying to research for a few weeks, but I find it all quite overwhelming, and so different to the UK market. I remember reading somewhere that Eukanuba is pretty good these days. But I'm not sure I trust that without also hearing it from somewhere else. I'm not sure about the whole 'grain-free' thing. Does it need to be grain-free? Or just free of the grains that aren't suitable for the dog? While obviously not being overloaded on grains. I read that corn is particularly bad for Westies. Westies are known to have sensitive skin, and so I assume that feeding a good quality food would help with that, along with being careful in terms of shampoo and frequency of baths (fewer is better for a Westie).
I would like to feed a kibble, with occasional canned/wet food. But, very occasional. The kibble my parents use is very small, and is ideal as a treat, for training etc. I like the idea of using a small kibble, and using it as a treat also. Westies are small, but not maltese/yorkie type small. An adult female will be 13-18lbs, maybe a little larger, depending on parentage etc.
My husband is very concerned about the cost of feeding the dog. But also understands that if we feed an inadequate choice, then vet bills may add up rather quickly. However, I doubt I can convince him to go for the very expensive options. Although, as I believe was pointed out on the 'top 5' thread, sometimes you need less of the better brands, evening out the cost somewhat.
I would like to hear some suggestions, taking into account the size of a Westie, concern over cost, the fact we are in CT (I believe someone said location can make a difference?). Once I find what works, I'm happy to order online if needed, so doesn't need to be carried by the local pet stores, if I can find a reasonable price online.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this, and to respond. I appreciate your experience and willingness to share your knowledge.
I've taken a look at some of the posts here, and actually read every single post in the 'sticky - 5 best dog foods' thread. However, most of the several years ago, and I thought things might have changed.
I am hoping to welcome a young Westie (West highland White Terrier, for those not familiar) companion into the family soon. This will be the first time I have been in control of the dog food. I had a Westie as a child, but food choices in the mid 90's in the UK are vastly different from what is on offer here in the US today. My parents got a couple of westie pups just over a year ago, and my dad researched food, and found a knowledgeable pet store owner who helped him make a choice. However, that food is not available here, and while the company does ship outside the UK, they don't ship to the US. The Natural Dog Food Company … where good health comes naturally [All in One Puppy Chicken
ried British Chicken (min 29%), Fresh British Chicken (min 26%), Whole Brown Rice (min 20%), Mixed Vegetables and Herbs (min 9%), Whole Barley, Linseed, Refined Chicken Oil, Brewer’s Yeast.Typical Analysis: Protein 25%, Oil 11.0%, Fibre 3%, Ash 6%]
I've been trying to research for a few weeks, but I find it all quite overwhelming, and so different to the UK market. I remember reading somewhere that Eukanuba is pretty good these days. But I'm not sure I trust that without also hearing it from somewhere else. I'm not sure about the whole 'grain-free' thing. Does it need to be grain-free? Or just free of the grains that aren't suitable for the dog? While obviously not being overloaded on grains. I read that corn is particularly bad for Westies. Westies are known to have sensitive skin, and so I assume that feeding a good quality food would help with that, along with being careful in terms of shampoo and frequency of baths (fewer is better for a Westie).
I would like to feed a kibble, with occasional canned/wet food. But, very occasional. The kibble my parents use is very small, and is ideal as a treat, for training etc. I like the idea of using a small kibble, and using it as a treat also. Westies are small, but not maltese/yorkie type small. An adult female will be 13-18lbs, maybe a little larger, depending on parentage etc.
My husband is very concerned about the cost of feeding the dog. But also understands that if we feed an inadequate choice, then vet bills may add up rather quickly. However, I doubt I can convince him to go for the very expensive options. Although, as I believe was pointed out on the 'top 5' thread, sometimes you need less of the better brands, evening out the cost somewhat.
I would like to hear some suggestions, taking into account the size of a Westie, concern over cost, the fact we are in CT (I believe someone said location can make a difference?). Once I find what works, I'm happy to order online if needed, so doesn't need to be carried by the local pet stores, if I can find a reasonable price online.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read this, and to respond. I appreciate your experience and willingness to share your knowledge.
