Can I give my dog eggs?

Eggs are one of nature’s most nutritious foods. They’re loaded with vitamins, protein and minerals. Since they are so healthy, it’s no wonder owners want to share with their dogs.

Rest assured, your four-legged friend can partake in the occasional egg. Yes, they are good for dogs. Some odds and ends, however, should be considered which we’ll cover here.

Obviously the health benefits of egg consumption are numerous. They’re a unique gift but how much can be given to Fido? What about the merits of eating them raw? The shells? Let’s take an closer look for your dog’s sake.

Can I Give My Dog Eggs? Answer: Yes

Your best buddy may benefit from moderate egg consumption. Boiled is preferred rather than fried.

Dogs aren’t prone to the same cholesterol risks, and associated diseases, compared to us humans. They don’t live as long. Even the yolk, which is where many of the nutrients are found, is okay in moderation. Without a doubt, giving one or two to a dog can make for a healthy treat.

A more consistent way to incorporate eggs into your canine’s diet is with a high quality chicken and egg dry dog food which contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.

A Potential Downside

It’s important to get the entire picture so you can determine if eggs should really part of your dog’s life. They do contain enzyme inhibitors, found in egg whites, which have the potential to negatively affect digestion.

This is mostly true for young pups and senior dogs. But if you limit consumption to just a few per week then you’ll likely have nothing to worry about.

Healthy Eggs for Dogs

Eggs are a great supplement for dogs. Besides the awesome protein, they contain naturally-occurring vitamin D. This helps the calcium, also found in eggs, to be absorbed which assists with healthy bones and teeth.

A lesser known benefit of the egg is Choline, an essential nutrient that’s very beneficial. Iron and selenium, useful for fighting cancer among other health perks, are found in eggs.

They’re also a good source of iodine so a healthy thyroid is more likely. The vitamin E, zinc, Riboflavin and fatty acids are also potentially beneficial for your dog.

The Protein Factor

Dogs require lots of protein and naturally prefer meat. Eggs are great because they contain high quality protein and essential amino acids. Combine that with the fact that medium eggs contain less than 80 low fat calories and you can see why eggs are a winner!

Logically, people who eat eggs for breakfast have more energy during the day. Try mixing in some egg with your dog’s regular food for a great protein boost!

Raw Eggs and Shells

Raw diets are now popular. Some owners have put their dogs on raw diets. The question of raw eggs for dogs is controversial. Since canines have quick and short digestive tracts, serving some raw egg is unlikely to harm them even if they’re contaminated with Salmonella or E. coli.

In fact, quite the opposite, raw eggs and even the shells can actually do a lot for your dog’s coat. The unaltered proteins will keep the fur shiny, an indication of excellent health. Eggshells are healthy for dogs, loaded with calcium!

Avoid serving raw eggs to dogs with health problems or weakened immune systems since a contaminated egg could potentially harm an already vulnerable dog.

Conclusion on Eggs

Whether boiled or raw, it is safe to give occasionally feed eggs to your dog. As always practice moderation and keep servings at a few eggs or so per week, not more. Egg shells and the yolks are also okay. The extra nutrients found in this budget-friendly food may go a long way towards improving your dog’s furry coat while providing many other overall health benefits as well.

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