Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells?

Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells?

A lot of people are curious if it’s safe for their dogs to eat egg shells. Some people believe that it’s not safe for dogs to eat egg shells, while others think that it’s a great way to give their dog some extra calcium. So, can dogs eat egg shells?

What Are Egg Shells Made Of?

Egg shells are made of a material called calcite. Calcite is a type of calcium carbonate, which is the same substance that makes up the mineral stalactites and stalagmites in caves. When bird eggs hatch, the egg shell is often eaten by the chick as part of its first meal. The egg shell is also used by some birds to line their nests.

The thickness of an egg shell varies depending on the species of bird. For example, ostrich egg shells are about 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) thick, while hummingbird eggs only have a thin layer of shell around 0.3 mm (0.01 inches) thick.

The color of an egg shell is also determined by the bird species. For example, chicken eggs have white shells, while robin eggs have blue shells. Some bird eggs even have spots or streaks of color on their shells.

Egg shells are made up of about 95% calcium carbonate and 5% other minerals, proteins, and water. The calcium carbonate is what makes the egg shell hard and strong. The other substances in the egg shell help to protect the embryo inside from bacteria and viruses.

When an egg is laid, it starts out as a soft shell that hardens as it cools down. This process is called “setting.” The egg shell also has tiny pores that allow air and moisture to pass through.

The average chicken egg has about 17,000 pores in its shell. These pores are important because they allow the chick to breathe while it is inside the egg.

Egg shells are a renewable resource and can be used in many different ways. For example, they can be crushed up and used as a natural fertilizer for plants. Egg shells can also be used to make calcium supplements for humans or animals.

Nutritional Value

Egg shells are a good source of many nutrients, including calcium, protein, and essential amino acids. They also contain antioxidant compounds that can help protect against disease.

While egg shells are not typically eaten, they can be used in certain recipes or made into supplements. Here’s a look at the nutritional value of egg shells and their potential health benefits.

Egg shells are composed of about 96% calcium carbonate and other minerals, including magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, and zinc

One large egg shell provides about 2 grams of protein and 11 grams of calcium. This equals about 20% of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for calcium

Egg shells also contain small amounts of vitamin D, carotenoids, and other antioxidants. These nutrients are important for bone health, immunity, and vision

When egg shells are consumed, the calcium is absorbed into the body and helps to strengthen bones and teeth. Calcium is also necessary for muscle contraction, blood clotting, and nerve function

Protein is essential for many bodily functions, including cell repair and growth. The amino acids in protein are used to make new proteins in the body

Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, two minerals that are essential for bone health 6. Carotenoids are antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage

Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells?

While egg shells are not typically considered poisonous to dogs, they can cause gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large quantities.

If your dog does eat egg shells, there’s no need to panic. Most likely, they will just pass through the digestive system without causing any harm. However, it’s always best to speak with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health

Egg shells are a good source of calcium and other nutrients that can be beneficial for your dog’s health. If you choose to give your dog egg shells, make sure they are clean and free of bacteria. You can also cook the egg shells to make them easier to digest.

Raw egg shells are a source of salmonella, so it’s important to clean them thoroughly before feeding them to your dog. You can do this by boiling the egg shells for 10 minutes or baking them in the oven at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes.

Egg shells can be fed to dogs whole or ground into a powder. You can add the egg shell powder to your dog’s food or make a homemade calcium supplement by mixing the egg shell powder with olive oil or coconut oil.

When feeding egg shells to your dog, always start with a small amount to see how they tolerate it. Too much calcium can cause health problems, so it’s important not to overdo it.

If you have any concerns about feeding egg shells to your dog, talk to your veterinarian before starting. They can give you specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.

Recipes With Egg Shells

If you’re interested in making your own dog food, there are a few recipes that include egg shells.

  • Egg shell and chicken bone broth. This is made by simmering chicken bones and eggshells in water to make a nutrient-rich broth. The egg shell powder can be added to this recipe for an extra boost of calcium.
  • Egg shell and chicken liver pate. This is a nutrient-dense food that’s easy to make at home. Chicken livers are blended with egg shell powder, eggs, and vegetables to create a smooth paste.
  • Egg shell and sweet potato dog treats. These homemade dog treats are made with egg shell powder, sweet potatoes, peanut butter, and oats. They’re perfect for training or as an occasional snack, egg shell, and salmon dog food. This recipe includes cooked salmon, egg shells, vegetables, and brown rice. It’s a complete and balanced meal that your dog will love.
  • Egg shell and oatmeal dog treats. These treats are made by mixing oatmeal, egg shell powder, and water to make a dough. The dough is then rolled out and cut into shapes.

While there are many benefits to feeding egg shells to dogs, there are also some risks. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian before adding eggshells to your dog’s diet to make sure it’s the right decision for your pet.

Our Final Thoughts

Egg shells are a good source of calcium and other nutrients that can be beneficial for your dog’s health. If you choose to give your dog egg shells, make sure they are clean and free of bacteria. You can also cook the egg shells to make them easier to digest.

When feeding egg shells to your dog, always start with a small amount to see how they tolerate it. Too much calcium can cause health problems, so it’s important not to overdo it.

If you have any concerns about feeding egg shells to your dog, talk to your veterinarian before starting. They can give you specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.

Scroll to Top