If you’ve cracked open an egg recently and found your pup staring up at you with those feed me now-eyes, you may have asked yourself, “Can dogs eat raw eggshells?” I mean, dogs have been known to snack on some pretty wild things (looking at you, shoe enthusiasts), so what’s the deal with eggshells? Are they safe? Are they nutritious? Or are they just a crunchy, questionable snack?
Spoiler alert: Dogs can eat raw eggshells, but before you start tossing them into your pup’s food bowl, there are a few things you should know. Don’t worry, I’ve cracked the topic wide open for you (pun intended).
The Short Answer? Yes, Dogs Can Eat Eggshells
Eggshells (and eggs) are safe for dogs to eat and can even provide some health benefits. They’re packed with calcium, which is essential for strong bones, teeth, and overall health. Plus, they’re a natural, unprocessed source of nutrition.
That said, eggshells shouldn’t replace a proper diet or become your dog’s go-to snack. Think of them as a supplement—not a main course.
But before you start tossing raw eggshells into your dog's kibble, keep reading. There’s a right way to incorporate eggshells into your dog’s diet, and there are a few risks to watch out for too.
The Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Eggshells
Eggshells are surprisingly loaded with good stuff! Here’s what they bring to the (dog) table:
1. Calcium Boost:
Eggshells are made up of about 95% calcium carbonate, which is a fancy way of saying they’re a great natural source of calcium. This mineral is crucial for keeping your dog’s bones and teeth strong and healthy.
2. Joint Support:
Ground eggshells also contain trace amounts of other minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which support joint health, especially for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.
3. Great for Homemade Diets:
If you’re one of those pet parents who prepare homemade meals for your pooch (major kudos to you), eggshells can be an easy way to add calcium to their diet. Balance is key when it comes to creating homemade dog food, and calcium is one nutrient that’s often overlooked.
The Risks of Raw Eggshells
Okay, so we’ve talked about the benefits, but are there any risks? Of course—this is raw food we’re talking about.
1. Salmonella Risk:
Raw eggs and their shells can carry bacteria like salmonella, which isn’t just harmful to dogs but to humans too. If your dog’s immune system is strong, their stomach acids might destroy the bacteria before it causes problems, but it’s still something to be aware of.
Make sure you always wash eggshells thoroughly before feeding them to your pup. Better yet, bake the shells (more on that below) to kill off any chances of bacteria.
2. Choking Hazard:
Large pieces of shell can be sharp and difficult to swallow, especially for smaller dogs. They could lodge in your dog’s throat or cause minor injuries to their digestive tract.
3. Too Much of a Good Thing:
Calcium is fantastic—until there’s too much of it. Overloading your dog with calcium can lead to issues like constipation, kidney problems, or an imbalance of other minerals. That’s why moderation is key.
How to Safely Prepare Eggshells for Dogs
If you’re ready to give your pup the green light on eggshells, here’s how to do it safely and correctly.
1. Wash the Eggshells
Even if the eggs came from an organic farm, you’ll want to rinse those shells to remove any dirt, residue, or bacteria. Think of it as giving them a little spa treatment before they hit the bowl.
2. Bake the Eggshells
This step isn’t mandatory, but it’s a great way to kill off any bacteria, like salmonella, lingering on the shells. Spread the eggshells out on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
3. Grind Them Into Powder
Remember how we talked about eggshells being a possible choking hazard? Grinding them into powder eliminates that risk and makes it easier for dogs to digest the calcium. You can use a coffee grinder, food processor, or even a mortar and pestle (old-school but effective).
4. Add to Their Food
Start with a small amount of eggshell powder—about half a teaspoon for small dogs and up to a teaspoon for larger dogs. Sprinkle it over their regular food, and voilà, you’ve just upgraded their meal!
Raw Eggshells vs. Cooked Eggshells
You might be wondering, “Does it matter if the eggshell is raw or cooked?” The short answer is no, as long as it’s prepared properly. Cooking (or baking) the shell can reduce the risk of salmonella and makes the shell easier to grind into powder.
Raw eggshells are fine too, especially if you’re in a pinch, but ALWAYS wash them first to minimize bacterial risks.
What About the Egg Inside?
Good news—eggs are a dog-friendly superfood! The egg whites and yolks are full of protein, vitamins, and healthy fats that can give your dog a nutritional boost.
Raw or cooked, whole eggs can be a healthy treat for many dogs. Just make sure to avoid adding salt, butter, or seasoning. Dogs love the simple life, after all.
Note: If your dog has a sensitive stomach or a history of allergies, start with small amounts of egg and monitor their reaction.
FAQ About Dogs and Eggshells
Q1. Can puppies eat raw eggshells?
It’s best to avoid feeding raw eggshells to puppies. Their immune systems are still developing, so they’re more vulnerable to bacteria like salmonella. Stick to the baked, ground kind if you’re adding calcium to your puppy’s diet.
Q2. Are eggshells good for dogs with bone issues?
Absolutely! Calcium is essential for bone health, and eggshells are a great natural source. Just check with your vet first to make sure it’s the right supplement for your dog’s specific needs.
Q3. How often should I give my dog eggshells?
A little goes a long way. Adding eggshell powder to their food once or twice a week should be plenty.
Final Thoughts
Can dogs eat raw eggshells? Yes! But, like all good things, they’re best enjoyed in moderation and prepared with care.
Whether you’re trying to add a little extra calcium to your dog’s diet or simply experimenting with new ways to spoil your furry friend, eggshells can be a nutritious and crunchy option. Just remember to wash, bake, and grind them to keep things safe and easy for your pup.
References
1) Myers M, Ruxton CHS. Eggs: Healthy or Risky? A Review of Evidence from High Quality Studies on Hen's Eggs. Nutrients. 2023 Jun 7;15(12):2657. doi: 10.3390/nu15122657. PMID: 37375561; PMCID: PMC10304460.
2) Arford, K. (2024, March 14). Can dogs eat eggs? American Kennel Club. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-eggs/
