Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

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Dogs can eat eggs, as they were once able to snatch them from birds’ nests and eat them raw. Today, dogs don’t need to hunt for food, but eggs still provide a good amount of protein.

As long as eggs are consumed safely, they can be used as treats or dietary supplements for dogs.

Eggs Nutrition Information

They have been called “The Incredible, Edible Egg,” and some nutritionists consider them the perfect food. Eggs are rich in vitamins and minerals, including riboflavin, vitamin B12, and phosphorus, as well as protein and selenium.

They are considered one of the most nutritious foods and are highly bioavailable, making it easy for the body to access and use the nutrients in the food. However, they are also high in saturated fat and cholesterol. A human serving size of one cup of eggs is equivalent to 243 grams.

Eggs are made up of about 2% carbohydrates, 63% fats, and 35% protein.  One egg has just about 77 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat.

Eggs are high in cholesterol, but not necessarily causing blood cholesterol to rise. Some health sources suggest that cholesterol in food doesn’t necessarily mean blood cholesterol will rise.

Eating eggs can increase HDL (good) cholesterol, which is the “good” cholesterol. Choline, an essential nutrient that is lacking in some people’s diet, helps build cell membranes and plays a role in producing signaling molecules in the brain and digestion.

Can My Dog Eat Eggs?

Eggs are a popular choice for dogs due to their high protein content and rich vitamins and minerals. However, there are concerns about salmonella contamination, which can lead to salmonellosis, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

High protein content can be problematic for dogs with pre-existing conditions, such as kidney disease, and cholesterol content may present challenges for those with pancreatitis or hyperlipidemia.

To avoid unwanted weight gain, eggs should be consumed in moderation, depending on the dog’s size, weight, activity level, health status, and pre-existing conditions.

The most cautious approach is to consult a veterinarian before incorporating eggs into your dog’s diet. Guidelines suggest that medium-size dogs and larger should consume 1 egg per day, small to medium-size dogs should consume 1/2 egg per day, and toy-size dogs should consume 1/4 egg per day.

Are Eggs Good for Dogs?

Eggs are a nutritious and high-protein food for dogs, providing essential amino acids, fatty acids, linoleic acid, Vitamin A, iron, fatty acids, folate, protein, riboflavin, selenium, Vitamin A, and Vitamin B12.

High-quality dog foods now include eggs as a protein source due to their protein and other nutrients. Eggs are only as good as the chickens they come from, so it is recommended to feed them from free-range farm hens fed an organic diet.

Scrambled or softly boiled eggs can help settle an upset stomach. Overall, eggs are a great addition to any dog’s diet, providing essential nutrients and supporting overall health.

Is the Cholesterol in Eggs Bad for Dogs?

Cholesterol doesn’t have the same effect on dogs as humans, and they don’t suffer from the same cholesterol-related diseases. Therefore, feeding egg whites to dogs isn’t necessary.

Dogs don’t experience cholesterol-related health issues like humans, so it’s not a concern for them. Overeating egg whites can cause weight gain, not health issues.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs?

Dogs can eat raw eggs, but they may be exposed to foodborne bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can cause digestive upset and illness. If your dog has consumed raw eggs, watch for signs of intestinal distress like diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, which may also be symptoms of an egg allergy or sensitivity.

Preliminary studies suggest that regular consumption of raw eggs may be associated with biotin deficiency in dogs, leading to loss of appetite, hair loss, and flaky skin. Veterinarians recommend cooking eggs fully before feeding them to dogs to help identify the cause and develop effective solutions.

How Many Eggs Can Dogs Eat?

Eggs are high in calories and fats, so it’s crucial to limit treats and snacks to 10% of your dog’s daily calories. A large egg contains nearly 80 calories, so a 30-pound neutered dog should not have more than one egg daily.

Eggs can be used as special treats, with an average of 60 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 4 milligrams of fat.

The appropriate serving size depends on factors like size, age, activity level, and existing health issues. If scrambled eggs are given due to an upset stomach or as a replacement meal, they should be deducted from the dog’s daily calories.

How Often Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

Dogs can eat a small amount of egg daily, but it’s crucial to feed them like any treat. Eggs are 70 calories each, so the amount depends on your dog’s size.

The 10 percent treat rule suggests that the egg should make up 10% of your dog’s total daily calories, providing a balanced meal without extra calories.

If your dog enjoys eggs and doesn’t cause digestive issues, they can eat a small quantity daily. However, be cautious, as eggs can add weight to your dog due to their high calories and fats.

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?

Before giving your dog eggshells, consult your vet as they contain calcium, which some dogs may need. However, eggshells are not tastier and can hurt their throat or internal organs.

Eggshells can help older, arthritic dogs by reducing joint pain and improving function in 51 dogs with joint problems.

If your dog has arthritis, your vet may recommend supplements or medication to alleviate their symptoms.

Can Some Dogs Be Allergic to Eggs?

Dogs frequently have allergies to dietary proteins. Owing to their protein content, eggs may cause allergies in dogs.

GI problems like vomiting and diarrhea are indicators that your dog is experiencing an allergic response. They may occasionally experience skin problems such as itching in various places, including the paws and ears.

See your neighborhood veterinarian for assistance if you see any of these symptoms. To learn more about food allergies in dogs, visit Tufts University’s Cummings Veterinary Medical Center.

How to Safely Feed Your Dog Eggs

Eggs should be cooked before giving them to a dog, without any added ingredients. Eggs are versatile and can be given in various ways, but it’s best to keep things simple to avoid upset digestion.

They can be cooked plain, sunny side up, scrambled, or hard-boiled, and can be incorporated into their diet in various ways. Start by feeding your dog one egg and monitor for signs of gastrointestinal distress.

Raw eggs should not be given to dogs unless you follow a raw food diet and consult a canine nutritionist. The best way to feed eggs to your dog is by chopping them up, and it’s best to feed them immediately after cooking.

Store eggs at 40°F when raw and boil them at 160°F for proper cooking. If not served immediately, refrigerate them at 40°F until ready to serve.

While eggs can be scrambled, boiled, or cooked like any other food, eggs are best without seasoning or added ingredients for your pup.

Final Thoughts

Eggs are a complete and nutritious food source for dogs, providing protein and other nutrients. They can be cooked various ways, but raw eggs should only be given to dogs after consulting an expert. Although they may raise cholesterol in some individuals, they are generally safe for most people. Despite ongoing debates about their benefits for humans, dogs can enjoy eggs as a protein source.