Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells? A Complete Guide (2024)

As a responsible pet owner, you always look for ways to enhance your dog’s health and nutrition. 

One question that often pops up is can dogs eat egg shells? The short answer is yes but there’s more to it than just feeding your dog crushed shells from your breakfast eggs. 

This article delves deep into the potential benefits and risks, proper preparation, and how egg shells can fit into your dog’s diet.

Can Dogs Eat Egg shells Safely?

The idea of feeding your dog egg shells might sound strange but it’s becoming more common among pet owners looking for natural sources of calcium. 

Egg shells are an excellent natural calcium supplement that can support bone health and overall well-being. 

Before tossing egg shells into your dog’s food it’s important to understand the proper way to prepare them, the benefits they provide, and any risks involved.

In this complete guide, we’ll explore the science behind feeding egg shells to dogs and provide practical tips on how to introduce this unique food into your dog’s diet.

Are Egg Shells Safe for Dogs?

Yes, dogs can eat egg shells safely if prepared correctly. Egg shells are composed primarily of calcium carbonate which is essential for building strong bones and teeth. 

Feeding raw egg shells without proper preparation can lead to problems like bacterial contamination or digestive discomfort.

When egg shells are properly cleaned, dried, and crushed into a fine powder they offer a safe and healthy supplement for your dog’s diet. 

But it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s feeding routine especially if your dog has any underlying health issues.

Nutritional Value of Egg Shells for Dogs

Egg shells are a rich source of calcium a vital mineral that supports bone development, muscle function, and overall metabolic health in dogs. 

Just one medium-sized egg shell can provide around 800 milligrams of calcium which makes it a valuable addition to homemade dog food or as a supplement.

Here are some of the key nutrients found in egg shells:

• Calcium Carbonate: Helps maintain healthy bones and teeth.
• Magnesium: Supports heart health and muscle function.
• Phosphorus: Balances calcium for strong bone structure.

Incorporating calcium from eggshells into your dog’s diet can be particularly beneficial if you are feeding your dog a homemade or raw diet that might lack sufficient minerals.

How to Feed Egg Shells to Your Dog

Feeding egg shells to your dog requires proper preparation to ensure they are both safe and effective. Here is an in-depth guide of how to do it.:

Step 1: Clean the Egg Shells

After cracking the eggs, rinse the shells under hot water to remove any remaining egg white or yolk which can harbor bacteria like salmonella.

Step 2: Bake to Sterilize

To further reduce the risk of bacteria bake the cleaned egg shells in an oven at 200°F (93°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method also makes the shells easy to crush.

Step 3: Crush or Grind the Shells

Once the egg shells have cooled then simply crush them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle, blender, or coffee grinder. 

Your dog will be able to digest the powder more easily if it is finer.

Step 4: Mix with Food

You can sprinkle the egg shell powder onto your dog’s regular food. A small pinch is usually sufficient as too much calcium can be harmful.

Benefits of Egg Shells for Dogs

Incorporating egg shells into your dog’s diet can provide several benefits particularly for dogs that need extra calcium or have certain health issues. These are a few of the main advantages:

1. Supports Bone Health

Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Egg shell powder provides a natural source of calcium that can help prevent bone-related issues particularly in older dogs or those with joint problems.

2. Helps with Joint Health

Egg shells also contain collagen in the inner membrane which can support joint health and mobility. This can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs or breeds prone to arthritis.

3. Prevents Calcium Deficiency

If your dog’s diet lacks sufficient calcium, they can develop a deficiency which can lead to weakened bones, dental problems, and muscle tremors. 

Adding egg shells to their diet can help prevent these issues.

Risks of Feeding Egg Shells to Dogs

While egg shells can be beneficial they also come with potential risks. It’s important to be aware of these before adding them to your dog’s diet.

1. Risk of Over-Supplementation

Too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia which is a condition where there’s too much calcium in the blood. 

This can cause issues such as kidney stones or impaired heart and muscle function. Always consult your vet to decide what dose is right for your dog.

2. Potential for Bacterial Contamination

Raw eggs and egg shells can carry harmful bacteria like salmonella. This is why proper cleaning and baking of the shells are crucial.

3. Digestive Discomfort

Some dogs may have difficulty digesting larger pieces of eggshell. Always ensure the shells are finely ground to prevent irritation or blockage in the digestive tract.

How Much Egg Shell Powder Should I Give My Dog?

The amount of egg shell powder you should give your dog depends on their size, age, and current calcium levels. 

A general rule of thumb is to provide around 1/2 teaspoon of egg shell powder per day for small to medium-sized dogs and up to 1 teaspoon for larger dogs.

However, it’s important to monitor your dog’s overall diet and avoid over-supplementing with calcium. 

Consult your vet for precise recommendations especially if your dog is on a specialized diet.

Read more: Can Dogs Have Crunchy Peanut Butter?

Egg Shells vs. Other Calcium Sources

Egg shells aren’t the only source of calcium for dogs. Other options include:

FAQ:

1. Can puppies eat egg shells?

Puppies can eat egg shells but they should only be given small amounts due to their developing digestive systems. 

2. Can dogs eat raw egg shells?

Technically, dogs can eat raw egg shells but it’s not recommended due to the risk of bacterial contamination. Always clean and bake the shells before feeding.

3. How often can I feed my dog egg shells?

It’s safe to feed your dog egg shells a few times a week but avoid overdoing it. Too much calcium can lead to health problems. Stick to small, measured amounts.

4. What should I do if my dog eats too many egg shells?

If your dog eats too many egg shells watch for signs of digestive upset or calcium over-supplementation such as vomiting or lethargy. Contact your vet if you notice any unusual behavior.

Conclusion

So, can dogs eat egg shells? Absolutely! With proper preparation egg shells can be a valuable natural source of calcium that supports your dog’s bone and joint health. 

But moderation is key and it’s always a good idea to consult your vet before adding anything new to your dog’s diet.

You can safely introduce this often-overlooked supplement into your dog’s meals by taking the necessary precautions and following the recommended guidelines.