Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells? Dogs might love to eat human food that falls to the ground; however, not all foods are good for dogs. You might wonder if eggshells are not good too. Probably you know that dogs can eat eggshells as they have amazing health benefits.

Eggs and eggshells contain a high nutritional value for your dogs. Usually, it’s fine for dogs to consume eggshells in a small amount. This is because they provide necessary calcium to dogs’ diets. Anyhow, it’s better to ask your veterinarian before offering them eggshells. 

Do you think these eggshells are safe for your dogs? Can your dog eat raw eggshells as well? If you’re curious to know about it, you are in the right place. So, let’s jump into the details.

Are Eggshells Good For Dogs?

Mostly it’s perfectly fine for dogs to consume eggshells. But, make sure they are not allergic or feeling sick after having them. More importantly, if eggshells are not washed properly or contain some raw egg. Eggshells provide calcium to dogs that help them in strengthening their teeth and bones. 

If dogs are deficient in calcium, adding eggshells to their diet is a great choice. According to a 2016 study, the daily eggshell membrane improves joint health and reduces joint pain in dogs. That’s why eggshells and membranes are quite beneficial regarding their joint-related problems. Make sure to feed them the right amount depending on the dog’s size and age by discussing with the vet. 

Are Eggshells Bad For Dogs?

Just like pros, there are cons as well related to feeding eggshells to dogs. But not all dogs require extra calcium except a few. In raw-fed dogs having already sufficient calcium, getting excess calcium from eggshells results in skeletal growth problems. 

Moreover, sharp edges of broken eggshells are painful for dogs to consume. Therefore, the dog’s throat and digestive parts can get damaged. Besides, the chances are that bacteria are present in eggs that can be harmful to your dog. 

What are the Health Benefits of Eggshells?

There are various essential minerals in eggshells that are quite good for dogs when it comes to health benefits. Some of these minerals include:

• Calcium

Dogs require calcium for healthy bones and teeth, just like humans. In addition, calcium is also important for vision, heart, and muscle functions. But certain health conditions result in lowering calcium levels in their blood.

You should supply calcium to your dog if he suffers from calcium deficiency. But no matter what, always talk with your vet first. Eggshells are considered a rich and cheap source of calcium for dogs. 

• Magnesium

Magnesium found inside eggshells is also necessary for the good health of dogs. Dogs require magnesium for proper calcium absorption. Furthermore, it is important for bone and muscle development in addition to calcium and phosphorus. 

• Phosphorus

For strong bones and teeth, calcium and phosphorus perform function together. So, eggshells contain enough calcium and phosphorus. Phosphorus is also important for muscle growth and the functions of nerves in dogs. 

Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggshells?

You are probably wondering if raw eggshells are also good for dogs? Can they eat them as well? Well, the major concern for a dog’s owner in the case of raw eggs is bacteria. Although bacterial infections are less common in dogs, they can pass them to us. In dogs, symptoms of bacterial infections are: 

• Vomiting
• Loose Stools
• The lower energy level and dull appearance 
• Loss of appetite

So, it’s better to take him to a vet, in case you wonder if your dog got infected with bacteria. As it is uncommon in dogs, maybe these symptoms inform some other problems in them. In this case, your vet will tell you the cause of such symptoms. You can give powdered calcium supplements on a veterinarian’s recommendation to your pet as a substitute for raw eggshells. 

How Should You Feed Your Dog Eggshells?

Being a pet owner, you should know how to feed your dog some interesting things besides their food. Regarding eggshells, feeding them is a tricky thing. For the reason that some dogs don’t like their taste so much compared to eggs. But always make sure to wash eggshells properly before serving them. 

Moreover, grind them well into a powder so that their small pieces don’t hurt your dog’s organs. One large egg to one teaspoon of eggshell powder contains almost 2,000mg of calcium when ground. But it’s better to keep the calcium powder in an airtight jar as moisture can make it sensitive to fungus. Mixing or sprinkling the powder on their food is best to feed them. 

Are Eggshells Safe?

Concerning the safety of eggshells for dogs, as you might know, excess of everything is bad. Excess calcium in eggshells calcium in dogs can cause digestive problems and stones in their bladder. So, you should not neglect the possible side effects of excess calcium in your dog. Be sure to discuss this with your vet before doing such practice. 

There is no need to provide more calcium in the diet if your dog already has well-balanced commercial food. However, in the raw food diet, feeding eggshells as a calcium source is quite beneficial. Ensure to serve them eggshells without any chemicals as eggshells available in the grocery stores are treated with chemicals to purify them. 

Final Thoughts

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells? Dogs can consume eggshells that prove essential health benefits to them. Eggshells have pros and cons for dogs like many other foods. Sharp edges of eggshells can damage their throat, so they should be fed in powder form. 

Eggshells are rich in three essential minerals: calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. In overall dog’s health, including strong bones and teeth, these minerals contribute a lot. Too much calcium can be dangerous for dogs, so talk to your vet before adding eggshells to their diet.  

Daily eggshell membrane supplements are beneficial in reducing joint-related problems in dogs. Ask your veterinarian how many eggshells are best suitable for your dog, depending on his age.

Recommended Readings:

• Fat German Shepherd Is A Big Problem.
• How Often Do Dogs Sleep?
• How Often Do Dogs Go into Heat?