Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Cooked Versus Raw

The ASPCA says raw or undercooked eggs can carry Salmonella and E. coli, and that raw egg contains an enzyme that can interfere with the absorption of a vitamin, which can lead to skin and coat problems. Cooking removes these concerns for most dogs.

Boil or scramble an egg without butter, oil, salt or other additions. Let it cool, and cut into small pieces.

• Cook thoroughly.
• Do not season.
• Cool before serving.
• Offer a small piece.

For most dogs, a small piece of egg a few times a week is plenty, and one egg for a large dog is the upper end. Eggs are high in protein and fat, so too many can cause upset or weight gain. Extras like this should stay a small part of the day's food. A common vet guideline is that treats and extras make up no more than about 10 percent of daily calories.

Ask your vet before feeding eggs to dogs with pancreatitis, kidney disease, obesity or egg allergies. Skip eggs mixed with onion, garlic, cheese or bacon. This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Dogs differ by size, age and health, so ask your veterinarian if your dog has a medical condition, is a puppy, or is on a special diet.

Eggs are a source of protein and fat, but a dog on a complete commercial diet does not need extra. Adding too many eggs can lead to weight gain or stomach upset. A small piece is a treat. If your dog has any health problem, ask your vet first.

Some people crush eggshells to add calcium. Without veterinary guidance this is not a good idea, since too much calcium is a problem, and sharp shell fragments can irritate the mouth and gut. Leave shells out.

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, itching, swollen face or hives after eating eggs. Egg allergies exist in dogs. If signs are severe or involve the face or breathing, treat it as an emergency and call your vet.

A small piece of egg a few times a week is plenty for most dogs, and a whole egg is a lot for a small one. Eggs are rich, and many at once can cause stomach upset.

Cook thoroughly and cool before serving.

Common mistakes include giving raw eggs, using butter or oil to scramble, and adding cheese or bacon. Another is offering shells. These can irritate the mouth and gut.

If your dog ate raw eggs and develops vomiting or diarrhea, call your vet.

Puppies can have a small cooked piece, but should rely on a complete puppy diet. Seniors with kidney or liver conditions should have eggs only with vet approval. Dogs with pancreatitis should avoid rich foods.

If you are unsure, ask your vet.

If you give eggs, keep preparation simple. Hard-boiled eggs are easy to portion, cool and cut. Scrambled eggs can be made without butter or oil in a non-stick pan. Poached eggs cooked in water are another plain choice. Raw eggs are not recommended, according to the ASPCA.

Do not add salt, cheese, onions, garlic or herbs. Cool the egg before serving, and cut into small pieces. Remember that egg is rich, and a whole egg may be a lot for a small dog. If you notice itching, vomiting or diarrhea after eggs, stop and ask your vet.