Pop-Quiz time! Can you name a Terrier breed that is not just strikingly white but also incredibly feisty, charming, and sometimes might have the dietary quirkiness of a broody teen refusing to eat vegetables? Your pondering time events; the answer is – The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie, as this captivating breed is lovingly called.
Hold your horses, or rather, leash your dog for a second because today, we are going to get into a somewhat controversial canine question. Yes, the hype you’ve been hearing about grain-free diets, specifically for your Westie. Does it sound like another fad diet like ‘Keto for dogs,’ or is there a kernel (pun intended) of truth worth paying attention to?
The splurge in grain-free dog-feed options in the market can make one wonder if grains are the dietary villains they’re being made out to be. So, should your Westie join the grain-free parade or keep enjoying its meals, grains included? The answer, as you anticipated, isn’t a simple Aye or Naw. Let’s dive deeper.
It often feels like our bubbly little Westies are genetic bundles of boundless energy. However, some of these delightful dogs have been known to suffer from allergies to certain food items, and, in some instances, grains have been identified as the culprit. While these allergies are not the norm for every Westie, it’s essential for pet owners like you to know that they can occur.
Symptoms might include itching, skin irritations, diarrhea, and even ear complications. But before you start diagnosing your Westie based on these symptoms, remember, it is always crucial to consult a veterinarian. In fact, you’ll be surprised to learn that actual grain allergies are relatively rare in dogs. More commonly, a protein source such as beef or chicken, may be the offending allergy trigger.
So, grains are innocent, and we can close this case, right? Unfortunately, it is not always that straightforward. You see, while grains themselves might not often cause direct allergic reactions, they can further trigger and possibly exacerbate existing sensitivities or health conditions in some dogs such as yeast infections or inflammatory issues.
What about the argument that fetching balls and wagging tails evolved from wolves hence should only eat what wolves eat, i.e., meat, not grains? While it is true that dogs come from a lineage of wolves, it’s also true that your Westie had rather cuddle on your lap than run wild with a wolf pack. Over the years, domestic dogs have significantly deviated from their wolf ancestors, not just in their cute Instagram-friendly appearance but also in their digestive systems. Studies have shown that domestic dogs have more genes related to starch and glucose digestion compared to wolves, which means they are pretty good grain diggers.
The bottom line? Going grain-free is not for every Westie. If your Westie has specific dietary requests, do consult with a vet, and figure out the best diet plan that suits your pet’s individual requirements.
Making a switch to a grain-free diet without a legitimate medical reason could do a disservice to Westies. Notably, grains often provide necessary fibers, proteins, and other nutrients necessary for your furry buddy’s holistic growth and well-being.
But, let’s say you and your veterinarian have determined that a grain-free diet is the way to go for your Westie. What then? Don’t simply begin the transition without considering the nutritional composition of the new diet. Your goal is to ensure your dog’s diet remains balanced and wholesome. Oftentimes, grain-free diets substitute grains for other ingredients that may be high in carbohydrates, which can lead to obesity or other health problems in your dog.
In the end, owning a dog, especially a smart and loyal Westie, isn’t just about having a ‘fur-end’, but also about being responsible for their well-being. No matter what diet route you take, always remember that a well-balanced diet, coupled with regular check-ups with your vet and plenty of exercise, is the key to your Westie’s health.
So do not fret if you see your Westie enjoying a grain-filled meal. They’re not betraying their wolf ancestry; they’re merely showing you their evolution and adaptation to a diversified diet.
Heed this advice, do plenty of research, and consult with your vet before making any significant dietary changes for your loveable Westie. His or her stomach (and overall happiness) will thank you for it. And isn’t that wagging Westie tail the best reward one could ask for?
