From gut to glory: Building a stronger Westie
Supporting gut health in your West Highland White Terrier (Westie) is one of the most powerful things you can do to improve their overall wellbeing. A healthy gut influences not only digestion, but also skin health, immunity, behaviour, and energy levels. For Westies—who can be prone to allergies, sensitivities, and skin issues—a strong digestive system lays the foundation for a healthier, happier dog.
Start with the Right Diet
Gut health begins with what goes into the bowl. We recommend a single-protein, whole food diet, using either raw or gently cooked food. This avoids overloading the gut with unnecessary fillers, preservatives, or grains that can disrupt the microbiome. Common protein options include beef, turkey, fish or lamb—rotated periodically to maintain variety without causing inflammation. We don’t recommend kangaroo as it seems to upset their tummies.
Avoid kibble with long ingredient lists, especially those containing corn, wheat, soy, or chicken by-products. Many Westies have sensitive systems and benefit from a simplified, species-appropriate diet.
Add Natural Probiotics
Probiotics help introduce beneficial bacteria into your Westie’s gut. While commercial probiotic supplements are available, natural options often work just as well. A small spoonful of plain goat milk yoghurt, kefir, or raw green tripe a few times a week can offer excellent support. These foods help populate the gut with good bacteria and support better nutrient absorption.
You can also use powdered probiotic blends specifically formulated for dogs. Look for products with multiple strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium animalis. We use Wellbeing for Dogs Essentials Complete 22 https://wellbeingfordogs.com.au/pages/our-products on top of their raw or lightly cooked balanced meal.
Use Prebiotic Support
Probiotics need fuel to survive, and that’s where prebiotics come in. Foods like cooked pumpkin, sweet potato, and slippery elm can soothe the digestive tract and encourage healthy bacterial growth. These gentle fibres also help firm up stools and reduce inflammation.
Minimise Stress and Chemicals
Stress can negatively affect gut flora, as can overuse of antibiotics, flea treatments, and unnecessary vaccinations. Where possible, keep your dog’s routine calm and predictable. Use chemical preventatives only when needed, and support detox with herbs like milk thistle or dandelion root under professional guidance.
Watch for Signs of Imbalance
Symptoms like itchy skin, paw licking, foul breath, inconsistent stools, or frequent ear infections can all point to gut imbalance. Addressing the root cause through digestive support often resolves these issues more effectively than topical treatments alone.
With good nutrition, mindful care, and a bit of natural support, your Westie’s gut—and their whole body—can thrive.
🦴 Gut Health – Checklist
“Happy Tummies, Healthy Westies”
✅ Feed a single-protein diet (raw or gently cooked)
✅ Avoid kibble with grains, fillers, or chicken by-products
✅ Add natural probiotics (goat milk yoghurt, kefir, tripe)
✅ Include gentle prebiotics like pumpkin or slippery elm
✅ Avoid overuse of antibiotics or worming chemicals
✅ Watch for signs: itchy skin, soft stools, foul breath
✅ Consult for custom gut support if needed
