Why Eggs Are Great for Dogs
Eggs are considered a "complete" food â they contain almost every nutrient a dog needs. They are one of the most bioavailable sources of protein available, meaning your dog's body absorbs and uses the nutrition from eggs more efficiently than most other foods.
ðĨĐ Complete Protein
Eggs contain all 10 essential amino acids dogs need for muscle maintenance, immune function and healthy skin and coat.
ð§ Brain-Boosting Choline
Egg yolks are rich in choline, which supports healthy brain and nervous system function â especially important for puppies and senior dogs.
âĻ Skin and Coat
The fatty acids and biotin in eggs promote a glossy coat and healthy skin. Great for dogs with dull fur or dry, flaky skin.
ðĶī Vitamins and Minerals
Eggs provide Vitamin A, B12, D, riboflavin, selenium, folate and iron â a nutritional powerhouse in a small package.
Cooked Eggs vs Raw Eggs
â Cooked Eggs
- Safe and highly digestible
- Protein is easier to absorb when cooked
- Eliminates Salmonella risk
- Avidin (biotin blocker) is deactivated by heat
- Best option for most dogs
â ïļ Raw Eggs
- Raw egg whites contain avidin, which blocks biotin absorption if fed long-term
- Small Salmonella risk
- Raw yolk alone is fine and nutritious
- Occasional raw whole eggs are safe â daily raw whites are not
ðĄ The Simple Rule
Scrambled, boiled or poached with no butter, oil or seasoning is ideal. If you want to give raw, give the whole egg occasionally rather than just raw whites regularly.
How Many Eggs Can a Dog Eat?
- Small dogs (under 10kg): Half an egg, 2â3 times per week
- Medium dogs (10â25kg): 1 egg, 3â4 times per week
- Large dogs (25kg+): 1â2 eggs, up to daily if part of a balanced homemade diet
â ïļ What to Avoid
Never serve eggs cooked in butter, oil or with seasoning like salt, garlic or onion powder. Fried eggs are off the menu. Plain scrambled or boiled only.
Can Puppies Eat Eggs?
Yes â eggs are excellent for puppies given their high protein content and brain-supporting choline. Start with a small amount (a quarter egg) cooked, then gradually increase.
What About Eggshells?
Clean, dry eggshells ground into a powder are an excellent natural calcium supplement. Sprinkle a small amount over your dog's food â one eggshell provides around 2,000mg of calcium and is commonly used in homemade dog food to balance the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio.
ðģ How to Cook Eggs for Your Dog
Scramble in a dry non-stick pan with no oil or butter. Or boil for 8â10 minutes until fully cooked. Allow to cool before serving. No seasoning, no extras â just plain egg.