Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?

Looking for a natural way to boost your dog’s calcium intake? Those eggshells you’ve been tossing in the bin might just be your furry friend’s next nutritional powerhouse! Let’s crack open the truth about feeding eggshells to dogs and explore how this common kitchen waste can become a valuable supplement for your canine companion.

The Quick Answer

Yes, dogs can safely eat eggshells when properly prepared. They’re an excellent natural source of calcium and other minerals that can support your dog’s bone health. According to research from Native Pet, eggshells contain about 350mg of calcium per gram of powder, making them a powerful natural supplement. This is especially beneficial for dogs on homemade or raw feeding diets who might need additional calcium sources.

The Nutritional Benefits

Your dog’s breakfast scraps could be packing some serious nutritional punch! Eggshells offer several key benefits that can contribute to your dog’s overall health and wellbeing:

Calcium Powerhouse

Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, making them an excellent source of this essential mineral. Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth, proper muscle function, and nerve signaling. Origin Labs research shows they also contain trace amounts of other beneficial minerals:

Phosphorus for bone strength and energy metabolism
Selenium for immune support and antioxidant properties
Magnesium for muscle and nerve function
Potassium for heart health and fluid balance
Sodium for maintaining proper blood pressure

These trace minerals work synergistically to support your dog’s overall health, making eggshells a well-rounded supplement.

Joint Support

The membrane inside eggshells (that thin film you might notice when peeling a boiled egg) contains natural glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help support your dog’s joint health. This makes eggshells particularly beneficial for senior dogs or breeds prone to joint issues. The collagen found in eggshell membranes can also contribute to skin and coat health, giving your dog a shiny, healthy appearance.

Digestive Health

Finely ground eggshells can act as a gentle abrasive in your dog’s digestive system, helping to remove built-up waste and promoting better digestion. Some dog owners report improved stool consistency and reduced incidents of constipation when adding eggshell powder to their pet’s diet.

How to Prepare Eggshells for Dogs

Don’t just crush up those breakfast leftovers! Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the safety and effectiveness of eggshells as a supplement. Here’s how to safely prepare eggshells for your pup:

Clean the eggshells thoroughly, removing any egg residue
Boil for 10 minutes to kill any bacteria, especially salmonella
Dry completely (you can use a low-temperature oven at 200°F for 10-15 minutes)
Grind into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or food processor
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place

This process ensures that the eggshells are safe for consumption and easily digestible for your dog. The fine powder can be easily mixed into your dog’s regular food or sprinkled over air-dried treats for an added nutritional boost.

Recommended Dosage

The amount of eggshell powder to feed depends on your dog’s size and individual nutritional needs. Dr. Woow’s guidelines recommend:

Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ¼ teaspoon daily
Medium dogs (21-50 lbs): ½ teaspoon daily
Large dogs (over 50 lbs): ¾ teaspoon daily

Start with half the recommended amount and gradually increase to the full dose while monitoring your dog’s response. It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the ideal amount may vary based on your dog’s specific diet and health conditions.

Safety Considerations

While eggshells are generally safe, keep these points in mind to ensure your dog’s health and safety:

Always use eggs from reliable sources, preferably organic, to minimize the risk of pesticide residues
Never feed raw, uncleaned eggshells due to bacterial risks, especially salmonella
Monitor your dog for any digestive issues when introducing eggshells, such as constipation or diarrhea
Consult your vet before starting any supplement routine, especially for puppies, pregnant dogs, or those with existing health conditions
Be cautious not to over-supplement with calcium, as excessive intake can lead to health issues

How to Incorporate Eggshells Into Your Dog’s Diet

Eggshell powder can be easily mixed into your dog’s regular food. It pairs particularly well with raw feeding diets and can be combined with other natural supplements like organ meats for a balanced approach to nutrition. Here are some creative ways to include eggshell powder in your dog’s diet:

Sprinkle over wet food or mix into dry kibble
Add to homemade dog treats or air-dried treats for an extra nutritional boost
Mix into homemade bone broth for a calcium-rich drink
Incorporate into DIY frozen dog treats for a cool, nutritious snack

Remember to introduce eggshell powder gradually and monitor your dog’s response to ensure they tolerate it well.

When to Avoid Eggshells

While eggshells can be a fantastic supplement for many dogs, there are situations where you should skip them:

If your dog is already on a calcium-supplemented diet or eating commercial dog food that’s complete and balanced
Dogs with kidney problems, as excess calcium can strain the kidneys
If your dog shows signs of digestive upset when consuming eggshells
Puppies on a balanced growth diet, as their calcium needs are carefully calculated

Always consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet, especially if they have pre-existing health conditions or are on medication.

The Bottom Line

Eggshells can be a fantastic natural calcium supplement for dogs when properly prepared and dosed. They’re especially beneficial for dogs on homemade or raw diets who might need additional calcium sources. Just remember to prepare them safely, introduce them gradually, and monitor your pup’s response.

By incorporating eggshell powder into your dog’s diet, you’re not only providing a rich source of calcium but also contributing to their overall health and wellbeing. It’s a simple, cost-effective way to boost your dog’s nutrition using something that might otherwise go to waste.

Want to learn more about natural nutrition for your dog? Check out our articles about feeding eggs to dogs or explore our range of natural, air-dried raw dog foods that provide complete nutrition without the need for supplements. Remember, a balanced diet is key to your dog’s health, and eggshells can be a valuable part of that balance when used correctly.