- It depends, dogs can eat raw egg
- Cooked eggs are the safer option
- Raw egg white contains avidin, which blocks biotin absorption
Yes, but with some restrictions. Eggs are a high-quality source of protein for dogs. The risks with raw eggs are salmonella and the avidin in the egg white, which blocks biotin absorption. Cooked eggs are the safer and equally nutritious alternative.
What eggs do for dogs
Eggs contain biologically high-quality protein, around 6-7 g per egg, along with vitamins A, D, E, B12 and folic acid. The egg yolk provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids as well as biotin (vitamin B7) for healthy skin and a shiny coat. Eggshells are a natural source of calcium.
Egg yolk vs. egg white
The egg yolk is the more nutritious part. It contains the most vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. The egg white mainly provides protein, but it also contains raw avidin, which blocks biotin absorption. Cooking inactivates the avidin. If you want to feed raw eggs, you can start by giving only the yolk.
Risks of feeding raw eggs
Salmonella is possible in raw eggs. Dogs have a more robust digestive system than humans, but they are not completely immune, especially puppies and older or immunocompromised dogs.
Raw egg white contains avidin, which binds biotin. Regular consumption of large amounts can in theory lead to a biotin deficiency: a dull coat, flaky skin and greater susceptibility to infection. If your dog gets diarrhea after eating egg, stop feeding it right away.
Cooked vs. raw eggs
Cooked eggs carry no salmonella risk, the avidin is inactivated and the protein is easier to digest. Raw eggs are a popular BARF component and contain more natural enzymes, but the bacterial risk remains. For most dogs, a cooked egg is the more practical and safer choice.
How much to feed
| Dog size | Recommendation per week |
|---|---|
| Mini (up to 5 kg) | max. 1 egg |
| Small (5–10 kg) | max. 1–2 eggs |
| Medium (10–25 kg) | max. 2 eggs |
| Large (over 25 kg) | max. 3 eggs |
Eggs are high in calories, so use them sparingly for overweight dogs or dogs with pancreatitis or liver conditions. If your dog vomits after eating egg, see your vet.
Eggshells as a calcium source
Eggshell powder is a natural, highly bioavailable source of calcium, especially for raw (BARF) feeding. Wash the shells, dry them at 120°C for about 10 minutes, then grind them into a fine powder. One teaspoon contains about 1.5–2 g of calcium.
Related topics
Quick check
Question 1 of 3Why is raw egg white more problematic than raw egg yolk?
You'll find everything about dog ownership at Hundeo Pro. From training to nutrition to health: structured courses with video guides, training tracking, and personal help from real trainers when problems come up.
