Can dogs eat eggs?

It’s Sunday morning, the pan is hot and you’re taking orders from your sleepy family on how they prefer their eggs. Don’t forget to ask your pup, too. Whether they're scrambled or hard-boiled, eggs are generally a safe and nutritious food option for dogs.

(Even though eggs are generally safe for dogs, you should always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.)

Are eggs good for dogs?

Eggs (especially free-range) are a protein-packed snack for dogs and have a lot of additional health benefits, too. While the following nutrients are great to incorporate into your pup's diet, occasional bites here and there aren't enough to drastically improve their well-being:

• Iron: boosts blood health
• Fatty acids: maintains healthy skin
• Folate: helps cells replicate
• Protein: provides an energy source and building block for muscles
• Riboflavin: creates healthy enzymes and helps metabolism
• Vitamin A: maintains vision, dental, coat and skin health
• Vitamin B-12: creates healthy enzymes and helps metabolism
  

Are eggs bad for dogs?

While eggs are packed with lots of nutrients, they do have their downsides, too. Eggs are considered high in fat, which can lead to health problems like obesity, so make sure to serve this snack in moderation. There are also medical conditions, like pancreatitis, that make it unsafe for dogs to eat eggs — so check with your vet before serving to make sure your pup is in the clear.

It’s also possible that your dog could have an egg allergy — talk to your vet before serving and watch out for signs of an allergic reaction, which include skin and ear infections, hives and an upset stomach. When introducing your dog to new foods, it’s important to have an emergency preparedness plan so that you can act fast. Here are some quick steps to get you started:

• Write down the address and phone number of your nearest animal emergency room.
• Post the Pet Poison Helpline number (855-764-7661) in a convenient location and save the number to your phone’s contact list.
• Keep a pet first aid kit in your car and house.
• Organize and have all of your pets’ medical records and vaccination information handy.

How to feed your dog eggs

Cooked eggs (regardless of style) without seasoning, butter or oil are safe for dogs to eat. Eggshells are not toxic for dogs either and can be a great source of calcium. However, they may cause an upset stomach, so it’s best to monitor your dog while they enjoy the eggshell.

Raw eggs can cause your dog to have a salmonella or E. coli infection, so it’s best to cook their eggs when serving.

RELATED: Can dogs eat popcorn?

How many eggs can a dog eat in a day?

Talk to your vet about how many eggs your dog can eat in a day. Most people foods, including eggs, shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Your veterinarian can help you determine proper portions based on your pet's specific needs.

Can puppies eat eggs?

Puppies can get in on the egg action, too. Talk to your vet before serving because puppies’ nutritional needs are different from adult dogs.

Happy snacking

The next time you’re whipping up eggs in the kitchen, feel free to serve your pup a steaming, savory treat. By following our serving tips and checking with your vet, your dog should be safe eating this human food.

And we're confident that eggs aren’t the only human food your dog would love to sink their teeth into (cue the drool). Check out our series "Can dogs eat … ?" to learn more about which human foods are off-limits and what's fair game.