Can dogs eat eggshells?
As pet owners, we’re always looking for ways to enhance our dogs’ health with natural, wholesome ingredients.
One surprising yet highly beneficial addition to your dog’s diet is eggshells.
Yes, you read that right!
When prepared correctly, eggshells can be a powerhouse of nutrients for your dog.
They are rich in calcium, phosphorus, vitamins, and amino acids, all of which play a critical role in maintaining your dog’s health.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the nutritional benefits of eggshells for dogs, how to safely prepare and feed them, and the best foods to pair them with for maximum health benefits.
Why Are Eggshells Good for Dogs?
Eggshells are a fantastic source of calcium, a mineral essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. But that’s not all—eggshells also contain other vital nutrients that contribute to your dog’s overall health:
- Calcium: Critical for healthy bones, teeth, and joint function. Calcium is also necessary for muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting.
- Phosphorus: Works together with calcium to promote strong bones and teeth, as well as muscle growth and proper kidney function.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that supports skin and coat health, promotes cognitive function, and fights off free radicals in the body.
- Amino Acids: Essential for proper muscle development, heart health, and overall tissue repair.
- Magnesium: Helps with the absorption of calcium and plays a role in the development of healthy muscles and bones.
Incorporating eggshells into your dog’s diet can help support bone and joint health, improve muscle function, and contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin.
How to Safely Feed Eggshells to Your Dog
Feeding eggshells to your dog requires some preparation to ensure they are safe and easy to digest. Here’s how to do it:
Grind Them into Powder
The best way to feed eggshells to your dog is by grinding them into a fine powder. Whole eggshells are tough to digest, and your dog might pass them undigested in their stool.
Grinding them into powder ensures better absorption of nutrients and prevents any sharp edges from causing injury to your dog’s digestive tract.
You can use a food processor, blender, or mortar and pestle to grind the shells.
Boil and Dry Before Grinding
If you prefer to feed your dog raw eggshells, it’s essential to boil them first. This step helps eliminate any potential bacteria, such as salmonella, that might be present in the shells. After boiling, let the shells dry completely before grinding them into powder.
Mix with Food
Once you’ve ground the eggshells into powder, you can easily mix them into your dog’s food. Be sure to store the powder in an airtight container to keep it fresh for later use.
How Much Eggshell Should You Feed Your Dog?
Moderation is key when feeding eggshells to your dog. While eggshells are nutrient-dense, too much calcium can lead to health issues like hypercalcemia (excessive calcium in the blood), kidney problems, or nutrient imbalances.
A small amount of eggshell powder—about half a teaspoon for a small dog or up to a teaspoon for larger dogs—is sufficient.
Before incorporating eggshells into your dog’s diet, it’s important to consult with your vet, especially if your dog has existing health conditions like kidney disease or arthritis.
Your vet will help determine the right amount of eggshell powder to give, depending on your dog’s specific needs.
Other Foods That Pair Well with Eggshells
Eggshells can be mixed with various dog-friendly foods to create a balanced, nutritious meal. Here are some great options to pair with eggshell powder:
- Beans: Beans like lima, black, or kidney beans are a great source of protein, iron, magnesium, and potassium. They also support metabolism, heart health, and immune function. However, beans should be fed in moderation as they can cause bloating or gassiness.
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and packed with antioxidants, broccoli supports heart health, immune function, and eye health. It’s also high in fiber, which aids digestion. Keep in mind that too much broccoli can lead to digestive upset, so feed it in moderation.
- Rice: Plain, cooked rice is an easily digestible food that is often used to soothe mild stomach upsets in dogs. It’s high in carbohydrates, providing a good source of energy. When mixed with eggshell powder, it can make for a simple, nutrient-rich meal.
- Zucchini: Zucchini is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable that is rich in antioxidants and fiber. It supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Be careful not to feed too much zucchini, as it can cause gastrointestinal issues if given in excess.
Health Advantages of Feeding Eggshells to Your Dog
When prepared and fed in moderation, eggshells provide a wide array of health benefits for dogs. These include:
- Improved Bone Health: The calcium and phosphorus in eggshells are crucial for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Joint Health: The calcium in eggshells can support joint health, making them beneficial for dogs with arthritis or joint issues.
- Stronger Muscles: The amino acids found in eggshells help with muscle growth and repair.
- Healthier Coat and Skin: Vitamin E supports a shiny coat and healthy skin, while also promoting cognitive function.
- Overall Wellbeing: The combination of magnesium, selenium, folic acid, and other nutrients supports your dog’s immune system, heart health, and muscle function.
Should You Feed Your Dog Eggshells?
Feeding eggshells to your dog is not a requirement if they are already eating well-balanced, commercial dog food.
However, if your dog has specific health concerns—such as joint issues, arthritis, or calcium deficiency—eggshells can be an excellent supplement to their diet.
Before adding eggshells to your dog’s food, it’s a good idea to consult your vet. They can guide you on the appropriate dosage and whether eggshells are suitable for your dog’s health condition.
Best Dog Foods with Eggshells
If you’re looking for a convenient way to incorporate eggshells into your dog’s diet, some commercial dog food brands already include eggshells in their formulas. These include:
- Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Low Fat Rice, Vegetable & Chicken Stew Wet Dog Food
- Zuke’s Hip & Joint Beef Recipe Dog Treats
- Nature’s Logic Canine Chicken Feast All Life Stages Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
These options can provide the nutritional benefits of eggshells without the need for extra preparation on your part.
Final Thoughts
Eggshells are an excellent, natural supplement that can offer a range of health benefits for your dog.
Packed with calcium, phosphorus, and other essential nutrients, eggshells support bone health, joint function, and overall vitality. When prepared correctly and fed in moderation, eggshells can be a valuable addition to your dog’s diet.
As always, consult your vet before making changes to your dog’s diet to ensure you’re meeting their specific needs. With the right guidance, eggshells can be a simple and effective way to boost your dog’s health and happiness.
