Can Dogs Eat Eggs?
Many pet owners wonder what “human foods” are best for their pets. There are a lot of questions from pet owners asking: “Can dogs eat eggs?”
Dogs can eat eggs. They are an excellent source of protein, and dogs need protein. Eggs are considered the gold standard for protein because they almost contain 100 percent of what you need.
Dogs were once hunters and gatherers that often took eggs from birds’ nests to eat. Although dogs no longer need to hunt for food, eggs provide dogs with a healthy source of protein. Eggs can be used as dietary supplements or a treat for dogs, provided they are safe.
Eggs Are Good for Dogs?
Eggs are safe for dogs and are great for nutrition. They are high in protein, fatty oils, vitamins, as well as fatty acids, which can help your dog both inside and outside.
Remember, eggs only taste as good as the chicken from which they were made. Eggs that come from free-range hens who are fed organic food are the best option to give to your dog. It is best to get them from a reliable source. Chickens can be as healthy as the food they eat, and healthier chickens will lay more nutritious eggs.
Talk to your vet before giving eggs to your dog. Dogs with certain medical conditions should not eat eggs. Too many eggs can lead to obesity and other health problems. Talk to your vet to determine the right amount of eggs for your dog.
Sometimes, eggs can be used to settle upset stomachs. Your dog should not eat eggs as a primary meal, but they can be a wonderful treat every now and again.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Eggs?
Yes, dogs can eat cooked eggs! Dogs can have scrambled or hard-boiled eggs cooked or boiled without any oil, butter, salt, or seasoning.
You can incorporate eggs into your dog’s diet in many ways, including a small number of hard-boiled eggs or a few scrambled eggs on top of dog food.
Can my Dog Eat Raw Eggs?
While most veterinarians recommend that you cook eggs before giving them to your dog, some dog owners prefer to feed their dogs raw eggs. Dog owners need to be aware of the following concerns when feeding raw eggs to their dogs:
Salmonella – Dogs could contract salmonella. Salmonellosis is a condition in which a dog ingests salmonella-contaminated eggs. Salmonellosis symptoms include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Biotin deficiency – Raw eggs can cause biotin deficiencies. Egg whites contain avidin, which is an enzyme that blocks the body’s ability to absorb biotin. Biotin is a vital vitamin that promotes healthy skin, metabolism, and cells as well as digestion. Although biotin deficiency is rare in dogs, it can occur.
Bacteria – Eggs can become contaminated with bacteria, which can cause serious health problems for your dog.
Allergies – Your dog could also be allergic to eggs. You should be alert for signs of allergic reactions in your dog, such as sneezing or swelling, breathing problems, lethargy, and coughing.
Talk to your vet first if you are going to give your dog raw eggs.
Monitor your dog’s reaction to raw eggs if they have any problems. You can also talk to your vet about taking your dog in for testing.
How to Feed Your Dog Eggs
Begin by giving your dog one egg. You should watch them for signs of digestive distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. You shouldn’t have any problems giving eggs to them as long as they don’t experience any digestive discomfort.
Dog food is a good source of nutrients, so eggs shouldn’t be the primary source of protein. Additionally, eggs can cause weight gain due to too many calories.
Dogs shouldn’t have more than one egg per day. It is best to get your eggs from an organic farm so that they aren’t chemically treated.
Give eggs as a treat to your dog. It is safe to give your dog a cooked egg from time to time. This will keep it special and a surprise your dog will love.
What Makes Eggs Good for Dogs? What are the Health Benefits of Eggs?
Dogs can get health benefits from each part of a cooked egg: the yolk, eggshell, and white.
Egg Yolks are rich in Vitamins and Fatty Acids
Dogs require fatty acids as well as vitamins. Egg yolks provide both.
- Egg yolk contains high concentrations of fatty acids. Dogs eat fatty acids as both saturated and unsaturated fats. The dog’s body will break down the fat and absorb it through its GI tract. Once inside, fatty acids are used to maintain and build body cells. Fatty acids are also a way to deliver fat-soluble vitamins. Don’t worry about cholesterol in dogs as they aren’t predisposed to developing heart disease like humans.
- Vitamins can be taken as water-soluble or fat-soluble nutrients in dogs’ diets. Vitamins act as building blocks and catalysts in immune function, growth, metabolism, and development.
Eggshells are rich in necessary minerals
Dogs also need minerals, so they are implemented in their diet as salts.
Minerals act as building blocks and catalysts for metabolism, immune function, and growth.
These nutrients are found in eggshells but also in egg whites or yolks.
Although technically, you can feed your dog with eggs shells, it must be done only if your veterinarian agrees.
Some dogs require calcium supplementation. Yet, there are other ways to provide more calcium for your dog, and eggshells aren’t the best. Eggshells are sharp and can cause injury.
Egg whites contain amino acids
Dogs need amino acids. Amino acids are meat and plant-based proteins.
The protein is broken down by the dog’s body and absorbed via the GI tract. Once the protein has been absorbed, it is used to build and sustain muscles.
How Many Eggs Can a Dog Eat?
You can make your dog special treats with eggs.
An average egg has 70 calories, 6 grams protein, and 4 grams fat.
Your veterinarian can help you determine how many eggs to feed your dog. There are many factors that influence the appropriate amount of eggs to be given to your dog’s treats.
- Size
- Age
- Activity level
- Prevalent health issues
Dogs can have a small number of eggs each day. Eggs have 70 calories per egg, so the amount you give your dog will depend on their size.
Remember the 10 percent treat rule. You should limit the amount of egg your dog eats to 10 percent of his daily calories. This will ensure your dog has a complete, balanced diet and no extra calories. It will also help eggs stay a surprise that your dog enjoys receiving.
Further Reading:
- Can Dogs Eat Deviled Eggs?
- My Dog Ate a Wild Bird, Will It be Okay?
- Quail Eggs For Dogs: Are they Suitable For Your Pet?