Can Dogs Eat Eggshells

Eggshells are a rich source of calcium, a vital nutrient that supports strong bones, teeth, and muscles. Feeding your dog eggshells can provide a natural calcium boost, especially for dogs that may need extra support in these areas. However, there are specific ways to prepare and serve eggshells to ensure your dog gets the full benefits without any risks.

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?

Dogs can eat eggshells, but they need to be careful about how they are handled and fed. Egg shells consist mainly of calcium carbonate and can be used as a supplementary source of calcium. However, raw eggshells can contain bacteria, such as salmonella, so they should be heat-sterilized before feeding and ground into a powdered form to reduce the risk of scratching the intestinal tract. When feeding eggshells, ensure that they have been thoroughly cleaned and sterilized by boiling or baking. After that, the eggshells are ground into a fine powder that can be mixed into your dog's food. It is recommended to add the right amount according to your dog's weight and health condition, and watch your dog's reaction after feeding to make sure there are no adverse reactions. 

Although eggshells can be used as a calcium supplement, they have a limited effect on calcium and may be difficult for your dog's digestive system to absorb. Therefore, if your dog needs a calcium supplement, you may want to consider other, more easily absorbed calcium supplements, such as pet-specific calcium tablets or calcium powders. It is best to consult your veterinarian for advice when adjusting your dog's diet or adding new foods. 

What are the Health Benefits of Eggshells for Dogs?

Source of Calcium

Eggshells are composed of about 90-95% calcium carbonate, making them an excellent natural source of calcium for dogs. Calcium is essential for many bodily functions, including:

• Bone formation and strength
• Tooth health
• Muscle contractions
• Blood clotting

Dogs that are on a homemade diet, especially those that don’t include enough calcium from other sources, may benefit greatly from crushed eggshells.

Support for Joint and Bone Health

Eggshells, particularly the eggshell membrane, contain compounds like glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid, which can help support joint health. These compounds are known for reducing joint inflammation and pain in dogs suffering from arthritis or joint disorders.

Related: Dog Joint Pain: Signs and How to Help

Benefits for Dogs with Allergies

For dogs that are allergic to conventional calcium supplements or certain foods, eggshells can be a hypoallergenic alternative. They are natural, unprocessed, and free from additives or artificial ingredients.

Why Should Dogs Not Eat Unprocessed Eggshells Directly?

There are several main reasons why direct consumption of untreated eggshells is not recommended for dogs.

• Digestive Tract Injuries

Egg shells can have sharp edges, and if your dog swallows an untreated egg shell, it may cut the mouth, esophagus or gastrointestinal tract, causing bleeding or inflammation. 

• Indigestion

Egg shells are difficult to digest and may cause your dog to experience symptoms of indigestion such as loss of appetite and anorexia. 

• Intestinal blockage

Larger pieces of eggshells may form a blockage in the intestines, which is an emergency situation that requires immediate veterinary attention. 

• Bacterial infection

Eggshells that have not been cleaned and sanitized may carry bacteria, such as salmonella, which may lead to food poisoning and severe diarrhea in your dog when consumed. 

Also Read: Bacterial Dermatitis in Dogs

• Calcium Absorption Problems

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Although eggshells are primarily made up of calcium carbonate, their low solubility and irritation to the gut make it difficult for your dog's digestive system to digest and absorb this form of calcium.

• Inadequate Nutritional Supplementation

Even if your dog is able to digest the calcium in eggshells, this form of calcium supplementation is very limited in its effectiveness and is not as effective as providing the calcium needed through specialized pet calcium supplements or food. 

Therefore, if your dog accidentally ingests eggshells, you should take immediate steps to reduce the potential health risks and consult your veterinarian for advice. Also, for the sake of your dog's health, you should avoid feeding untreated eggshells.

Why Do Dogs Accidentally Eat Eggshells?

Dogs may accidentally eat egg shells because they are interested in the food residue in the shells, or they may accidentally swallow them while foraging for food. A dog's curiosity and exploratory behavior may drive them to chew on a variety of items, including egg shells. Additionally, if dogs are not properly supervised while eating eggs, they may swallow the entire egg, including the shell, without chewing it completely. Pieces of egg shells may be scattered around your dog's food and may also be accidentally ingested if your dog is not careful while eating. To prevent this, you should supervise your dog while they are eating eggs and make sure that the shells are properly disposed of and out of your dog's reach.

Why Bacteria on Eggshells May Cause Food Poisoning in Dogs?

The reason that bacteria on eggshells, such as Salmonella, may cause food poisoning in dogs is because these bacteria are able to colonize your dog's digestive system, producing toxins that cause symptoms such as gastroenteritis. Salmonella is a common foodborne pathogen that can be spread through contaminated food or water. If a dog ingests eggshells containing Salmonella, especially untreated eggshells, these bacteria can cause food poisoning in the dog's body, which manifests itself in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever and loss of appetite. 

Salmonella is highly viable and can survive in different environments, including the surface of eggshells. Eggshells may come into contact with feces during the hen's laying process and become contaminated with the bacteria. Even if the eggshell looks clean, it may carry these pathogenic bacteria. As a result, dogs accidentally ingesting untreated eggshells increase the risk of contracting salmonella, which in turn may lead to food poisoning. 

To prevent this, you should make sure that your dog does not come into contact with untreated eggshells and take proper hygiene measures when handling eggs, such as washing the shells thoroughly and removing the shells before cooking, to minimize the chances of your dog ingesting the bacteria. If your dog shows signs of food poisoning, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for treatment.

How to Properly Dispose of Egg Shells to Safely Feed to Dog?

To ensure that eggshells are safe to feed to your dog, you can follow these steps to dispose of them.

• Cleaning Eggshells

First, wash the eggshells thoroughly to remove any possible dirt and bacteria.

• Sterilize Eggshells

You can sterilize egg shells by boiling them in boiling water for a few minutes or baking them in the oven.

• Drying and grinding

Dry sterilized eggshells, then grind to a fine powder in a food processor or mortar and pestle.

• Add in moderation

Add egg shell powder to your dog's food in moderation, depending on your dog's weight and nutritional needs.

Please note that you should consult your veterinarian before feeding eggshells, especially if your dog has a specific health condition or sensitivity to food ingredients. In addition, make sure the particles of the eggshell powder are fine enough to avoid scratching your dog's esophagus or intestines when swallowed.

Recommended Dosage of Eggshells for Dogs

The amount of eggshell powder to give your dog depends on their size and calcium needs. A general rule is:

• Small dogs (under 10 lbs): 1/4 teaspoon of eggshell powder per day
• Medium dogs (10-50 lbs): 1/2 teaspoon of eggshell powder per day
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 1 teaspoon of eggshell powder per day

Since dogs already get calcium from their regular food, it’s essential to avoid over-supplementing. Too much calcium can lead to health issues such as kidney stones or other imbalances.

What Should Do After Eating Eggshells to Reduce Digestive Tract Injury?

The following steps can help minimize digestive tract damage when your dog eats untreated eggshells.

• Stop eating and drinking immediately

Avoid further downward movement or aggravation of the digestive tract by egg shells

• Observe your dog's symptoms

Watch your dog for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, which may be signs of digestive tract irritation or obstruction.

• Do not induce vomiting on your own

unless directed by a veterinarian, as this can lead to more serious injuries.

• Contact your veterinarian urgently

Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to inform your dog that he has accidentally ingested eggshells and follow your veterinarian's advice for further treatment.

• Prepare to seek medical attention

If your veterinarian recommends taking your dog to the hospital, this should be arranged as soon as possible so that x-rays or other tests can be performed to determine the location of the eggshells and the appropriate treatment can be administered.

• Initial treatment at home

While waiting for veterinary instructions or en route to the hospital, you can help minimize digestive discomfort by keeping your dog quiet and avoiding strenuous exercise.

The above measures can help minimize the potential damage to your dog's digestive tract if he or she ingests an eggshell and ensure timely professional veterinary care.

How to Properly Give Your Dog a Calcium Supplement?

• Determine Calcium Supplement Needs

The need for calcium supplements is determined by your dog's age, weight, activity level and health. Puppies, lactating bitches, senior dogs or dogs with specific health problems may need additional calcium supplements.

• Choosing the right calcium supplement

Calcium supplements can be chosen in the form of calcium tablets, calcium powder or liquid calcium. The choice should take into account your dog's taste preference and ability to digest and absorb. Products recommended by your veterinarian are usually better suited to your dog's needs. 

• Follow your veterinarian's recommendations

Before starting a calcium supplement regimen, consult your veterinarian for professional dosage recommendations and usage guidelines. Your veterinarian will develop a calcium supplementation program that is tailored to your dog's specific needs.

• Balanced diet

Include calcium-rich foods in the diet, such as dairy products, soy products, and shrimp skins. Also, make sure your dog's diet contains the right amount of vitamin D to promote calcium absorption. 

• Moderate amount of supplementation

Calcium supplements should be taken in moderation. Excessive calcium intake may lead to health problems such as kidney stones or an imbalance in the ratio of calcium to phosphorus in the blood.

• Monitor the effects of calcium supplementation

Regularly monitor your dog's health during calcium supplementation, including blood tests and bone health assessments, to ensure that calcium supplementation measures are effective and safe.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your dog is getting the right calcium supplementation when needed to promote healthy growth.

FAQs 

What happens if dogs eat egg shells?

 If a dog eats eggshells, some health problems may occur. Eggshells consist mainly of calcium, and if a dog ingests small amounts occasionally, they usually don't cause serious problems because they can help replenish calcium. However, if a dog consumes egg shells in large quantities, it may lead to obstruction or perforation of the digestive tract, as eggshell fragments may accumulate in the stomach or intestines. In addition, eggshell fragments may scratch your dog's digestive tract, causing internal bleeding or infection.

If your dog has eaten eggshells, it is recommended to closely monitor its behavior and health. If your dog shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite or abdominal discomfort, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your veterinarian may recommend x-rays to determine the location of the eggshell fragments and offer appropriate treatment, such as endoscopic removal or surgery, depending on the situation.

To prevent this type of problem, you should keep egg shells out of reach of your dog and make sure to remove the shells when you feed your dog eggs. If you are considering giving your dog a calcium supplement, you should consult your veterinarian for safe supplements and recommended dosages.

You can break eggs on your dog's food, but you need to keep the following in mind.

1. Make sure the eggs are hard-boiled to avoid bacterial infections such as salmonella.
2. It is recommended to feed only egg yolks as they are rich in nutrients, while the ovalbumin in egg whites may interfere with your dog's absorption of vitamin H.
3. Feed in moderation, generally adult dogs can fulfill their nutritional requirements by consuming 1-2 eggs per day.
4. Observe your dog's reaction after consuming eggs. If symptoms of indigestion or allergy occur, stop feeding immediately and consult your veterinarian.
5. Eggs should not be a major part of your dog's diet and the overall balance of your dog's diet should be maintained. 

To summarize, it is okay to break eggs on your dog's food, but make sure they are hard-boiled yolks and feed them in moderation, while being mindful of your dog's reaction and overall dietary balance.

Conclusion 

Yes, eggshells can be a beneficial supplement for dogs, offering a natural source of calcium and joint support. However, it’s important to prepare them correctly by cleaning, drying, and grinding the shells into a powder. Always consult your vet before adding eggshells to your dog’s diet to ensure they meet your pet’s specific nutritional needs.