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Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

Updated on July 18, 2024
Reviewer Profile Photo
Reviewed by Petco’s Animal Care
Education and Compliance (ACE) Team

Yes, dogs can eat eggs that have been properly cooked. As with any new food you’re thinking about introducing to your dog, however, consult your vet first to make sure it’s appropriate for your particular pet. If your dog has an adverse reaction to trying eggs, contact your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately.  

Eggs can be an excellent source of nutrition for dogs and humans alike. Read on for the information you need about serving your pup this tasty treat. 

Are eggs good for dogs?

When served as an occasional treat, eggs can be good for dogs. They’re high in protein and minerals, such as iron. Eggs are also high in vitamin A, which is essential for healthy vision and a strong immune system. Plus, they contain folate and vitamin B12. They’re rich in fatty acids, including oleic and linoleic acid, which are essential to heart and brain function, and omega-3 fatty acid, which has been shown to help prevent heart disease, kidney disease and arthritis. Omega-3s can also help keep your dog’s coat shiny and soft.  

Since eggs are relatively high in fat and cholesterol, they should be reserved as a treat and should not be fed to dogs who are overweight. 

How to feed your dog eggs

The short answer to “Can dogs eat eggs?” is yes, but certain precautions need to be taken.

  • Cook eggs thoroughly  Can dogs eat raw eggs? It’s not a good idea. Wild canines consume them out of necessity, but raw eggs can contain salmonella and other harmful bacteria that may cause stomach upsets. But can dogs eat boiled eggs? Yes, boiling is one of the best ways to cook eggs for your dog. They need to reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered adequately cooked.  

  • Don’t add anything Many ingredients that humans add to eggs—like milk, butter, oil, salt, seasonings and onions—are unsuitable for dogs. Can dogs eat scrambled eggs? If they’re scrambled with no added ingredients, yes. You can even fry eggs or cook them sunny side up in a dry pan. You can try different methods to see if your dog has a preference, but don’t add anything. 

  • Skip the shell The shell  isn’t toxic to dogs, but they don’t taste good and they can be sharp when shattered.  

  • Start small While most dogs can eat eggs, some are allergic to them. After consulting your veterinarian, begin by feeding your dog half an egg and watch for signs of gastrointestinal distress over a day or two. Vomiting often occurs immediately; diarrhea or loose stools may not occur until the next day.    

  • Don’t overdo it Many dogs love eggs, but they’re a treat, not a meal. Treats, toppers and other snacks, including the occasional cooked egg, should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily food intake. Otherwise, your pet can be at risk for nutritional imbalances.

  • Get creative  Scramble, boil or fry an egg—with no added ingredients—and mix it in with your dog’s kibble. When making breakfast for the humans in the family, cook up some plain eggs on the side. Boil an egg and slice it to give as a treat. You can even make your pup a special omelet with chicken breast, spinach or broccoli. 

FAQS About Dogs Eating Eggs

Eggs are soft and easy to digest, which can make them an ideal puppy treat. As with other human foods, however, wait until your puppy is about 3to 4 months old before you start offering them eggs. Consult your veterinarian first and keep their portion size small—no more than a quarter of an egg. Be sure to remove the entire shell, as it can be a choking hazard.

Don’t panic. Most of the time, they will be fine. Monitor your dog for signs of distress and take them to your veterinarian if you notice anything worrisome. Symptoms of salmonella infection include diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps. Both diarrhea and vomiting can lead to dehydration, so talk to your vet if you notice these signs.

Can dogs eat hard-boiled eggs? The answer is yes. Gently place the eggs in a saucepan and add water until they are covered by 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then cook for 9 to 10 more minutes. Let the eggs= cool, and remove the shell. Tip: Running eggs under cold water can help cool them down quickly and make it easier to peel off the shell.

Fried eggs are traditionally cooked in oil or butter, and this preparation is not recommended for dogs. While this likely won’t cause immediate harm, it can lead to weight gain and other health issues over time. If you fry eggs in a dry frying pan, however, you can go ahead and serve them to your dog. Cook until the yolk is solid.

Eggs and rice is a popular meal for humans—and it’s typically wholesome for your dog as well. Rice is often fed to help soothe upset stomachs because it’s easy to digest, and it also provides a good serving of carbohydrates and other essential nutrients.

No. Deviled eggs often contain spices, garlic and onion and are not a good choice for your dog. Eggs are best served plain.

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