Can dogs eat eggshells?
Quick Answer
Yes, but with caution.
Eggshells can be a good source of calcium and protein for dogs. However, they must be prepared properly to avoid any risk of harm. Raw eggshells can contain bacteria, and sharp edges could potentially cause injury.
What Is It?
Eggshells are the outer covering of an egg, typically hard and brittle. They are primarily made up of calcium carbonate.
Why It Can Be Risky
While eggshells can be beneficial for dogs, there are potential risks involved:
- Raw eggshells can contain bacteria like Salmonella or E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning.
- Eggshells can have sharp edges which can cause internal injury if swallowed.
Safe Method?
The safest way to feed your dog eggshells is to bake the shells at 300 degrees for about 10 minutes to kill any bacteria, then grind them into a fine powder. This powder can be sprinkled on your dog’s food as a calcium supplement.
Safe Alternatives
If you’re concerned about the risks of feeding your dog eggshells, consider other sources of calcium such as bone meal or a vet-approved supplement.
Preparation Tips
Always cook eggshells before feeding them to your dog to kill any bacteria.’, ‘Grind the eggshells into a fine powder to avoid any sharp edges.