Can waste be the nutrition? Absolutely, eggshells are often considered waste, but they are nutrient-dense byproducts of eggs that are filled with calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. In the book of humans, they have no worth, and they are liable to be discarded, but it is the natural supplement for your dog. In this guide, we will explore: can dogs eat eggshells? Are eggshells safe for dogs? What are the benefits and risks of eating eggshells? Apart from these safe preparation techniques, the right dosage and expert tips will remain under the umbrella of our agenda. Let’s start!
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Yes, absolutely. The dogs can eat eggshells, and they can really benefit from the nutrients they have. Biologically, eggshells are a rich source of calcium, which is mandatory for bone health, teeth, and overall well-being. Apart from calcium, they also have magnesium, phosphorus, and collagen, which are vital for joint and muscle health.
Are Eggshells Safe for Dogs?
Yes, eggshells are safe for dogs, but the condition is that they must be prepared correctly and carefully to avoid any sort of risk. Primarily they are made up of calcium carbonate, which is a gem and highly productive for bone and teeth health. In fact, eggshells are 95% calcium, making them an excellent natural source of the mineral.
Contrary to calcium, they also have other elements as well;
- Phosphorus (it is beneficial for maintaining energy and promoting bone health).
- Magnesium—(Magnesium in eggshells boosts muscle function, nerve health, and cardiac functionality).
- Collagen & Protein—Help support joint health and skin elasticity.
These essential nutrients make the eggshells a natural alternative to calcium supplements.
Health Benefits of Eggshells for Dogs
So by analyzing all the potential benefits of eggshells, it can be a valuable addition to the diet of furry friends.
1. Bone and Joint Health
Biologically, the eggshells contain calcium carbonate, which is highly beneficial and full of benefits, especially for bone health. So feeding the calcium-rich stuff to dogs is really helpful in maintaining strong bones, teeth, and joints. From puppies to senior dogs, every lad needs calcium for the holistic development of the body.
- Puppies require this to cope with rapid growth and bone development, but the deficiency of calcium in puppyhood can result in bone deformities and weakness.
- On the other hand, the senior dogs are prone to arthritis and osteoporosis. Balancing their diet with eggshells can boost their bone health.
2. Dental Health
Second, they also improve oral hygiene by naturally assisting dogs to remove plaque and strengthen the teeth. Crushed or powdered eggshells act as a natural abrasive, which can aid in cleaning your dog’s teeth as they chew. Interestingly, they are more beneficial for lads who are prone to gum diseases. Regular presentation of such foods will be really productive for healthy teeth.
3. Muscle and Nerve Function
Definitely, the eggshells have a rich quantity of calcium, but they also have other elements as well, like magnesium. Magnesium plays a significant role in muscle movement, nerve functions, and cardiac wellness. In case your dog is experiencing muscle cramps and nerve issues, eggshells can really help in addressing these issues without involving any sort of risks.
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Potential Risks of Feeding Eggshells to Dogs
In the universe, things have two faces; one is productive, and the other one is far, far away from productivity and very much near to the risks. In the same way, the eggshells have two sides as well. These are as follows.
1. Choking Hazard
The first and foremost hazard which is associated with the eggshells is the threat of choking, especially if the eggshells are too big. It is very difficult for dogs to chew the large pieces, resulting in the blockage or choking. To avoid this, make sure to crush or grind eggshells into a fine powder before adding them to your dog’s food.
2. Digestive Issues
The nutrient-rich profile of the eggshells may lead to some prominent digestive issues due to overdosage of calcium. Additionally, they also lead to a calcium-phosphorous imbalance, resulting in constipation. Apart from this, the high levels of calcium in the blood can also lead to kidney stones and muscular weakness. So, moderation is the key.
In case your dog is already consuming calcium-rich food from commercial dietary packages, it is always crucial to avoid presenting eggshells to curb the chances of hypercalcemia.
3. Bacterial Contamination (Salmonella Risk)
Raw eggshells may contain Salmonella bacteria, which may ignite severe foodborne diseases or illnesses in both humans and dogs. It is always recommended to boil the eggshells for safe consumption, as boiling kills bacteria without posing health risks.
How to Feed Eggshells to Dogs Safely?
That is a very productive and quality question: how to feed eggshells to dogs safely? petsprose has researched thoroughly on this subject matter and amalgamated the following tips.
1. Crushed vs. Powdered Eggshells—Which is Better?
Both eggs are better and ideal as far as their nutritional profile is concerned, but if we compare both types, the result favours the powdered form more enthusiastically than the crushed form.
- Crushed eggshells may cause choking hazards, especially in smaller breeds.
- On the other hand, powdered eggshells are easily absorbed by the digestive system by the extraction of nutrients.
2. Preparation Methods for Eggshells
Having difficulty and experiencing a blank mind while preparing the eggshells? Just follow these steps and win happiness.
- Properly wash the eggs to remove the dirt and any harmful substances.
- Boil the eggshells to eliminate the bacteria for at least 5 to 10 minutes.
- Dry them properly to avoid mould propagation.
- Grind the large pieces into a fine powder by using a food processor or coffee grinder.
- Store the powdered eggshells in an airtight container to preserve their potency.
3. Recommended Dosage
Balance and moderation are very much fundamental things when you are presenting any sort of stuff to your dog or pet. Similarly, the correct dosage of eggshells depends on your dog’s size and diet. Generally, the recommended dosage is.
The correct dosage depends on your dog’s size and diet. Generally, the recommended dosage is:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ¼ teaspoon of powdered eggshell per day.
- Medium dogs (20–50 lbs): ½ teaspoon per day.
- Large dogs (50+ lbs): 1 teaspoon per day.
Always consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog is receiving the correct amount of calcium.
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Can All Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Generally, eggshells are safe for dogs but there are some exceptional cases that you should keep in mind before serving.
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1. Dogs with Kidney Disease
In case your pet has renal or kidney problems, just avoid the presentation of eggshells, as their kidneys are unable to process the excessive calcium. Feeding calcium-rich substances to dogs with kidney problems may exacerbate their condition, so it is always crucial to consult the vet before doing this sort of action.
2. Puppies and Senior Dogs
Secondly, the puppies need extra care in their early life to boost their development. When presenting the calcium to the puppies, always ensure the proper balance. On the other hand, senior dogs can benefit from this calcium-rich diet, but excessive dosage can lead to health issues.
Alternative Calcium Sources for Dogs
It is quite evident that the eggshells aren’t suitable for your dogs for any reason; in that case, consider these calcium-rich alternatives.
- Bone broth
- Canned sardines (with bones)
- Plain yoghurt
- Leafy greens (like kale and spinach)
These alternatives provide a balanced calcium intake without the potential risks associated with eggshells.
Veterinarian Insights & Research
Vets and many nutrition experts recommend natural calcium sources for dogs, as they are easier for dogs to absorb. Eggshells are highly bioavailable and a bank of nutrients for health and well-being.
Research Insight: A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that calcium from eggshells is readily absorbed and provides a natural alternative to synthetic supplements.
Final Thoughts
In a nutshell, dogs can eat eggshells as they are safe for them, but they should be present in moderation to avoid nutritional imbalance.
