Scientists have argued about the benefits and harms of eggs for human health for several decades. Is it possible to give eggs to dogs? This product contains valuable fats, amino acids, vitamins, and mineral compounds. In what form is it better to give it to your pet so as not to harm it? How many and how often can you give eggs to your dog?
Beneficial properties of eggs for dogs
All parts of the egg are helpful for dogs: shell, white, and yolk. The product contains B vitamins, vitamins A, E, and D, and mineral elements (cobalt, selenium, zinc, molybdenum, phosphorus, copper, and iron). The white serves as a source of protein, and the yolk provides fatty acids.
Among the beneficial effects for the pet’s body are the following:
- Growth and maintenance of muscle mass;
- Maintaining physical and mental activity;
- Strengthening bone tissue and teeth;
- Improvement of coat condition;
- Nervous system support;
- Maintaining visual acuity;
- Obesity prevention;
- Prevention of heart and vascular diseases;
- Liver support.
The egg contains virtually no carbohydrates (only 0.7 g per 100 g of product), essential for inactive pets and dogs prone to weight gain.
The product is dangerous for animals.
First of all, eggs are a common allergen. An immune reaction can develop in a healthy animal, especially in dogs with allergies or intolerance to some foods. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:
- Swelling of the muzzle, paws, eyes, and mucous membrane of the mouth;
- Redness, itching of the skin;
- Lacrimation, discharge from the nostrils;
- Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing.
- An adverse reaction from the digestive system in the form of diarrhea, vomiting, increased gas formation, and flatulence is also possible. The same symptoms can occur if the animal buys a stale product (raw or boiled).
Another concern about eggs being harmful to dogs is the risk of salmonellosis. To reduce the likelihood of this dangerous disease, you should not purchase eggs from your hands or give the product raw to your pet.
What birds’ eggs can dogs eat?
Eggs of all types of birds, chicken, quail, goose, duck, etc., are helpful for dogs. The question of a particular product’s nutritional value and benefits remains open today. The same applies to the difference in cholesterol content, salmonella’s absence, and eggs’ “purity. ” If possible, the types of eggs can, giving chicken eggs at one time and, for example, quail at another. Both will be useful.
How to cook eggs correctly
Giving your four-legged friend a boiled egg – hard-boiled or soft-boiled is advisable. The product can be cooked separately, chopped, or added to the main feed. If the animal is on natural food, add a beaten egg to the pan while cooking soup, porridge, or other dish—fried eggs for dogs. Raw eggs are allowed if you know their safety (without infectious agents).
You can also give your dog shells. Experts believe it is better to take quail egg shells, which are softer and have a higher mineral content. However, this issue is also controversial. For internal use, the shells are washed, doused with boiling water, dried in the oven, and then crushed. The resulting powder is added to the pet’s food in small portions.
How many eggs can you give?
You need to give eggs to your dog based on the product type and the pet’s characteristics: age, size, activity, and the presence of any diseases. The average dosages for a healthy dog are:
- Small breeds – up to 5 quail eggs, divided into 2-3 doses per week, or one chicken egg per week;
- For medium and large individuals – up to 10 quail eggs, 2-3 times a week, or two chicken eggs per week.
Crushed shells can be given to a medium-sized dog in about one teaspoon per week, dividing the amount into several feedings. For small pets, the dosage.
Puppies and pregnant dogs
For puppies and pregnant dogs, eggs are a precious source of essential amino acids and fats. In both instances, they ensure that the offspring will develop and grow normally, support the neurological system, enhance the immune system, and improve skin and coat health. Eggs operate as a preventative measure against bone loss and muscular atrophy, as well as a support system for physical activity during all stages of pregnancy. The dosage for puppies is approximately one egg per day until six months of age, and after six months of age, it is permissible to give up to two eggs per week. The weekly portion can be three eggs for a pregnant or lactating dog.
