Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and eggs are a cheaper, nutritious meal to help you get going in the morning. But when dogs starts gazing longingly at your omelet or scrambled eggs, is it safe to let your four-legged friend eat along with you?
The short answer is yes. Whether they’re boiled or cooked, eggs can make fantastic treats or dietary supplements for your dog.
Eggs are packed with protein and rich in many essential amino and fatty acids, vitamins including A and B12, as well as folate, iron, selenium, and riboflavin, which can all provide an array of health benefits for canines, ranging from improved skin and coat health to stronger teeth and bones. As such, eggs are a common ingredient in many homemade pet diets and are considered safe and nutritious for most dogs.
However, while eggs can safely be incorporated into your dog’s diet, they should never become their primary source of nutrition. The general consensus is that eggs can be offered in moderation a few times a week when used as a supplement to a high-quality commercial food or meat-based diet.
While eggs are a safe “human food” for Rover, you’ll always want to be sure to check in with your veterinarian before offering eggs to your pet, particularly because overfeeding eggs can cause health issues ranging from obesity to diseases like Salmonella. While they’re chock full of nutrition, eggs also happen to be high in fat, so pet owners of overweight dogs should always exercise moderation when offering these protein powerhouses.
Believe it or not, not only can eggs be a healthy (and scrumptious) snack for your dog, but they may even help settle tummy troubles, much like chicken and rice can when kibble is too hard on their stomach. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on how many eggs your individual pet is likely to be able to tolerate.
While some amount of bacteria from raw food can be beneficial for your pet, properly storing your eggs will help ensure that any harmful bacteria is kept at a safe level. You’ll also want to shop for organic, free-range eggs whenever possible.