Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet unless your veterinarian tells you it’s fine to do so. 

Omelets may be a breakfast staple for humans, but can dogs eat eggs too? When prepared safely, eggs can be a nutritious addition to your dog’s diet. They’re a source of protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins. However, there are a few risks to consider before adding an egg to your dog’s bowl. 

Here’s what you should know about feeding eggs to dogs, including the safest ways to prepare them. 

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Can Dogs Have Eggs?

Yes, dogs can eat cooked eggs in moderation. Boiled, scrambled, and poached are all great options—as long as they’re plain and not cooked in butter or oil. Raw eggs should be avoided due to potential health risks such as salmonella and reduced nutrient absorption. 

If you’d rather not cook eggs at home, you can find commercial dog treats and foods that use eggs as an ingredient. A few options include: 

Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggs? 

No, dogs should not eat raw eggs. Although raw eggs contain the same nutrients as cooked eggs, they come with risks and offer no additional health benefits.  

Raw eggs can carry salmonella, a bacteria that may cause illness in dogs, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. 

Raw egg whites also contain avidin, a protein that binds to biotin (a B vitamin), which can interfere with nutrient absorption when fed regularly. Cooking eggs neutralizes avidin, making them a safer and more nutritious choice for dogs. 

Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells? 

Dogs can eat eggshells, but only when prepared properly. Eggshells are rich in calcium and other trace minerals, which may benefit dogs needing a calcium boost.  

To safely feed your dog eggshells, bake or boil them to kill pathogens (if not using pasteurized eggs), then grind them into a fine powder and sprinkle a small amount over their food. This should only be done under the guidance of your veterinarian—your vet can help determine if your dog needs extra calcium, how much is safe for their size, and how to add it to their diet. 

Can Dogs Eat Egg Yolk? 

Yes, dogs can eat egg yolks. Yolks contain healthy fats and fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. While they’re nutrient-dense, they’re also higher in calories and fat than egg whites. Because of this, portion control is important, especially for dogs prone to pancreatitis or weight gain. 

Can Dogs Eat Hard-Boiled Eggs? 

Yes, hard-boiled eggs are one of the safest and simplest ways to feed eggs to your dog. Make sure the eggs are fully cooked (boiled until both the white and yolk are solid), cooled, and chopped into bite-sized pieces before serving. Avoid adding salt, butter, or unsafe seasonings. 

Are Eggs Good for Dogs?

Each part of a cooked egg offers health benefits for dogs: the egg yolk, eggshell, and egg white. They’re full of nutrients that support your pup’s muscles, immune system, skin, and more.  

Here’s what makes eggs a good choice: 

• They’re a great source of protein. Eggs are packed with high-quality, easy-to-digest protein, which helps dogs build strong muscles and repair tissues.  

• They have healthy fats. Egg yolk contains omega-6 fatty acids that help keep your dog’s coat shiny and their skin healthy.  

• They’re rich in vitamins. Eggs provide important vitamins like A, D, E, and several B vitamins. These nutrients support your dog’s immune system and metabolism, as well as general growth and development. 

• They’re packed with minerals. Eggs contain minerals such as iron, zinc, selenium, calcium, and phosphorus. Together, these minerals play a role in thyroid function and healthy bones and teeth. 

Are Eggs Bad for Dogs?

Eggs are generally safe when fed in moderation, but there are some risks to consider, too: 

• Digestive upset: Some dogs may experience gas, bloating, or diarrhea if they eat too many eggs at once—especially if it’s their first time trying them. 

• High fat content: Egg yolks are high in fat. While this isn’t an issue for most dogs, those with a history of pancreatitis, obesity, or those on a low-fat diet may be at risk for flare-ups or weight gain. In these cases, it’s better to feed only egg whites or skip eggs entirely. 

• Food allergies: Though not very common, some dogs can develop an allergy to egg proteins. Signs of a food allergy include chronic ear infections, itchy or inflamed skin (often around the ears, paws, or face), or vomiting and diarrhea. If these symptoms appear after feeding eggs, stop giving them and check in with your veterinarian. 

How Many Eggs Can a Dog Eat?

Eggs should be considered a treat, and all treats combined should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. The remaining 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food.  

If you’re feeding your dog eggs for the first time, start with a small amount and monitor for signs of allergies or digestive upset before slowly working up to the following recommended serving sizes. 

How To Safely Feed Eggs to Dogs

The best way to prepare eggs for your dogs is by cooking them thoroughly with no added salt, butter, or oil. Boiled, scrambled, and poached are all great options.  

Here are some tips for serving eggs to your dog: 

• Hard-boil them and then chop into small pieces. Feed as a treat or sprinkle them on your dog’s kibble. 

• Scramble without butter or oil and spread them on a lick mat, like the Rinse Ace Lick Pad, or stuff them into a KONG toy, for a more engaging treat. 

• Use eggs in homemade dog treats, like peanut butter macarons. 

You can cook a batch of eggs for your dog to eat throughout the week, but if you’re not serving them right away, refrigerate them at 40 F for up to four days.