Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Raw, Boiled and Scrambled

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Eggs are often called nature's multivitamin, and they are a favorite ingredient in homemade dog meals. They are generally safe, but how you prepare them makes a difference, and there are a few cases where eggs are best skipped.

Nutrition

A single egg contains high-quality protein with all the essential amino acids, along with fat, vitamin A, B vitamins, riboflavin, selenium and other nutrients. It is easy to digest for most dogs. Eggs also give a good source of fatty acids. They are calorie-dense, though, with about seventy calories in a medium egg, so portion size matters. See our guide to how much protein dogs need.

Cooked versus raw

Cooked eggs

Cooking destroys potential bacteria and deactivates avidin. Plain boiled, poached or scrambled eggs without salt, butter, oil or seasoning are the best way to serve them.

Raw eggs

Raw eggs can carry Salmonella, which can cause illness in dogs and in people who handle the food. Raw egg white contains avidin, which binds biotin, a B vitamin, and could in theory cause a deficiency if large amounts are fed over a long time. Occasional small amounts are unlikely to cause a problem, but cooking is safer. See our raw feeding guide.

Eggshells

Eggshells are rich in calcium, and some homemade diets use finely ground shell as a calcium source. Whole shells can have sharp edges and may carry bacteria. If you wish to use shell, it should be thoroughly cleaned, baked and ground to a fine powder, and the amount measured carefully as part of a balanced recipe. Do not add shell to a complete commercial diet. See essential minerals.

How much?

Eggs count as treats. A reasonable guide is about a quarter of an egg for a small dog, half for a medium dog and one egg for a large dog, once or twice a week. Adjust meals to keep calories balanced. For dogs on weight management, use sparingly.

How to prepare

1. Boil, poach or scramble without added fat.
2. Cool completely.
3. Chop into small pieces, or mash over food.
4. Refrigerate leftovers and use within a day or two.

Who should avoid eggs

• Dogs with pancreatitis or a history of it, since eggs are rich. See diet for pancreatitis.
• Dogs with egg allergies. Signs include itchy skin, ear infections and digestive upset.
• Overweight dogs, unless counted carefully.
• Dogs with kidney disease, where phosphorus intake may need limits. Ask your vet.

Using eggs

• Crumble a little boiled egg on top of kibble for a tasty boost.
• Use as a training reward in small pieces.
• Mix into a bland diet for a sick dog, if your vet agrees.

Egg products to avoid

• Deviled eggs or egg salad with onion, mayonnaise or seasoning
• Eggs cooked in butter, bacon grease or oil
• Eggnog and baked goods with sugar, nutmeg or xylitol. See nutmeg

Signs of trouble

Call your vet if your dog develops vomiting, diarrhea, itching or lethargy after eating eggs.

Eggs in homemade and bland diets

Cooked egg is a common addition to homemade recipes, where it contributes protein, fat and micronutrients. In a recipe designed by a veterinary nutritionist, the number of eggs is specified, so follow it rather than adding extra. For a dog recovering from an upset stomach, a little scrambled egg without fat can be offered as part of a bland meal, but only with your vet's agreement, and never as a long-term substitute for complete food.

Storing and handling eggs

Keep eggs refrigerated, wash your hands and utensils after handling raw eggs and discard cracked or old eggs. Hard-boiled eggs keep in the fridge for about a week. Do not leave cooked egg out for longer than a couple of hours, especially in warm weather.

The takeaway

Cooked eggs are a safe, healthy treat in small amounts. Keep them plain, count the calories and take care with raw eggs.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.