Eggs are both a breakfast staple and one of the most common ingredients found in meals of all types. They’re not only delicious, but they’re extremely healthy for humans. With how much we enjoy them and often we eat them, it’s natural to wonder “can dogs eat eggs?” Can you share eggs with your dog? And if so, how do you have to prepare them? Those are all egg-cellent questions that we’ll answer in this article!
Can Dogs Eat Eggs? (The Short Answer)
Yes, as long as they are prepared properly, eggs make an excellent treat or dietary supplement for dogs! While they can be eaten raw, we don’t recommend it due to the chances of contracting Salmonella or E Coli. Boil or cook them to reduce this risk. Remember to avoid using oils, seasonings, or other additives that could put your dog’s health at risk.
It’s important to remember, that even with the best of intentions, accidents happen and dogs can easily eat things they shouldn’t. Unfortunately, even if those accidents aren’t fatal, they can result in huge, unexpected veterinary expenses. That’s why we recommend all responsible dog owners get a free, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws.
Are Eggs Good For Dogs?
We’ve already answered the question, “can dogs eat eggs?” Now, let’s learn about the benefits of feeding your dog this food! Are eggs good for dogs?
Yes, eggs are one of the best foods for our four-legged friends, delivering a ton of nutritional value in every bite. They are filled with protein, and while they aren’t meant to be the primary source of protein in a dog’s diet, they make a great supplemental food or treat!
In addition to protein, they are a great source of calcium iron, and vitamins. They also contain fatty acids and amino acids which help keep the skin and coat healthy. In moderation and when properly prepared, eggs are definitely one of the most healthy options for pups. Similar to pumpkin, eggs can even help reduce an upset stomach in dogs.
Are Eggs Bad for Dogs?
We’ve already answered the question, “can dogs eat eggs?” Now, let’s learn about the dangers of feeding your dog this food! Are eggs bad for dogs?
Like almost any food, there are some potential risks with feeding your dog eggs. The main risk is eating them raw. Like humans, if your dog eats a raw egg they’ll likely be just fine. However, there is a small risk of Salmonella and E Coli which, in our opinion, outweighs the convenience factor and small nutritional boost of serving eggs raw. Instead, boil or cook them fully.
The other risk is with added ingredients to the eggs. When we prepare eggs for humans, we typically use oils, seasonings, or other additives that could be dangerous for pups. It’s best to keep things simple and cook eggs plain for your pup.
Other Varieties & Related Foods
Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs?
While raw eggs aren’t toxic for our four-legged friends and are generally safe, we don’t recommend feeding them to your pup due to the risk of Salmonella and E Coli. In our opinion, the small additional increase in nutrients that feeding raw eggs provides your dog is canceled out by the additional risk.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Eggs?
Yes, cooked eggs are a great choice for our pups! Just make sure you don’t use oils, seasonings, or other additives that could be dangerous to your pup.
Can Dogs Eat Scrambled Eggs?
Yes, scrambled eggs are safe for dogs as long as they are fully cooked (not runny) and made plain without additional seasonings, oils, or additives.
Can Dogs Eat Hard Boiled Eggs? / Can Dogs Eat Eggs Boiled?
Yes, plain, hardboiled eggs are safe for your pup to eat. Make sure the center is completely solidified and fully cooked. A liquid and runny interior can put your dog at risk for food poisoning.
Are Egg Yolks Safe for Your Pup?
If they are fully cooked, dogs can eat egg yolks. If they are raw, we recommend against feeding them due to the increased risk of food poisoning.
Can Dogs Eat Egg Whites?
Egg whites are safe for dogs as long as they are cooked. While there is debate as to whether they are appropriate to use as a part of a meal, as a treat they are perfectly fine because your dog is already getting all the nutritional value they need from their daily dog food.
Can Dogs Eat Deviled Eggs?
While plain, hardboiled eggs are safe for dogs you have to be much more careful with deviled eggs due to the added ingredients. Make sure all the ingredients are dog-friendly, keeping a close eye out for onion and garlic products, both of which are common additives that are highly toxic to dogs. If all ingredients are safe for dogs then you can share in moderation.
Are Pickled Eggs Safe for Your Pup?
While not toxic unless other non-safe ingredients are added, picked eggs are not healthy for dogs so we recommend against feeding them. The picking process makes this originally-healthy treat much less so. Check out this article on pickles to learn why.
Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Surprisingly, yes eggshells are safe for dogs. They’re a great source of calcium! Some dog owners crush up the egg shells and sprinkle them on their dog’s food.
In Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Eggs?
Yes, eggs are generally a very safe choice for dogs to eat. As long as you remember to cook them and don’t add ingredients you should be good to share this healthy and tasty food with your pup!
Want to Learn More?
Check out these related articles from our “Read Before You Feed” series for more advice on safe foods for dogs!
Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians and this article should not be taken as medical or veterinary advice. If you have any questions about your pet’s health or dietary needs, please contact your local veterinarian.
