West Highland White Terriers, or Westies for short, are one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. These furry friends are known for their lively and friendly personalities, as well as their distinctive white coats. As a Westie owner, you want to ensure that your pup is healthy and happy, and a big part of that is feeding them the right treats. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the best Westie-approved treats out there, guaranteed to make their tails wag with delight!
The Importance of Treats for Westies
Before we dive into the different types of treats, let’s talk about why they’re important for your Westie. Treats are a great way to reinforce positive behavior, and they can also be used as a training tool. Giving your Westie a treat when they’ve done something good, like sitting or staying, can help them learn faster and reinforce positive behavior. Additionally, treats can be a source of enrichment for your pup, giving them something to chew on or play with when they’re feeling bored or anxious.
Choosing the Right Treats
When it comes to choosing treats for your Westie, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to choose treats that are safe and healthy for your pup. Look for treats that are made with high-quality ingredients, and avoid anything that contains artificial flavors or preservatives. You’ll also want to pay attention to the calorie content of the treats, as overfeeding your Westie can lead to weight gain and health problems down the line.
Homemade Treats
One of the best ways to ensure that your Westie is getting healthy and safe treats is by making them yourself. Homemade treats can be made with simple, wholesome ingredients, and you’ll have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what’s going into your pup’s snacks. Some great homemade treats for Westies include:
Peanut Butter and Banana Bites: Mash together a ripe banana and a tablespoon of peanut butter, then roll the mixture into small balls. Place the balls on a baking sheet and freeze until firm.
Carrot Chips: Cut carrots into thin slices, then bake them in the oven at 250°F for about an hour, or until they’re crispy.
Chicken and Sweet Potato Jerky: Slice chicken breast and sweet potatoes into thin strips, then bake in the oven at 200°F for 2-3 hours, or until they’re dry and chewy.
Store-Bought Treats
If you don’t have the time or inclination to make treats yourself, there are plenty of store-bought options that are safe and healthy for your Westie. Look for treats that are made with natural ingredients and have a high protein content. Some great store-bought treats for Westies include:
Blue Buffalo Health Bars: These crunchy biscuits are made with high-quality protein sources like chicken and salmon, and they’re free from artificial preservatives and colors.
Merrick Power Bites: These soft and chewy treats are made with real deboned meat and are free from grains and gluten.
Zuke’s Mini Naturals: These small, bite-sized treats are made with real meat and are perfect for training or rewarding your Westie.
Special Occasion Treats
Finally, it’s important to remember that treats should be given in moderation, even if they’re healthy and safe for your Westie. It’s also a good idea to reserve special treats for special occasions, like birthdays or holidays. Some great special occasion treats for Westies include:
Homemade Pupcakes: Mix together flour, eggs, peanut butter, and applesauce to make a batter, then bake in muffin tins. Top with a dollop of cream cheese frosting and a small bone-shaped cookie.
Freeze-Dried Liver Treats: These high-protein treats are made with real beef liver and can be crumbled over your Westie’s food or given as a special snack.
Raw Bones: Raw bones, like beef or lamb shanks, can be a great treat for your Westie, as they provide a natural source of calcium and help keep their teeth clean. Just make sure to supervise your pup when they’re chewing on a bone and discard it once it becomes too small or brittle.
In conclusion, choosing the right treats for your Westie is an important part of keeping them healthy and happy. Whether you opt for homemade treats, store-bought options, or special occasion snacks, make sure to choose treats that are made with high-quality ingredients and are appropriate for your pup’s size and age. And remember, treats should be given in moderation, and should never replace a balanced and nutritious diet. With the right treats and a lot of love, your Westie is sure to be one happy pup!
