Can Dogs Eat Eggs?
Short answer: yes. Fully cooked eggs are a safe, nutritious treat or food topper for dogs. A large boiled egg is about 78 kcal, which is a lot for a small dog, so share it out. Raw eggs are not recommended.
Why eggs can be good for dogs
- High quality protein, plus vitamins and minerals.
- Easy to digest when cooked plain: scrambled, boiled or poached.
Risks of eggs for dogs
- Raw eggs can carry salmonella.
- Raw egg whites contain avidin, which can block biotin if fed often.
- Butter, oil, salt, onion and garlic in human egg dishes.
- Calories: one egg is about half of a 20 lb dog's daily treat budget.
How to serve it
- Boil or scramble with no oil, butter or seasoning.
- Chop and mix into food, or use small pieces as rewards.
How much per day by dog weight
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories. For a spayed or neutered adult dog that budget is shown below, with how many large boiled eggs (about 78 kcal each) fit in it if they are the only treat that day.
| Dog's weight | Daily treat budget | Large boiled eggs per day |
|---|---|---|
| 10 lb | 35 kcal | up to 0.4 eggs |
| 20 lb | 59 kcal | up to 0.8 eggs |
| 30 lb | 79 kcal | up to 1 egg |
| 50 lb | 116 kcal | up to 1.5 eggs |
| 70 lb | 150 kcal | up to 1.9 eggs |
| 90 lb | 181 kcal | up to 2.3 eggs |
Start with one or two pieces the first time and watch for an upset stomach. Your own dog's budget is in the dog food calculator (it shows a "treats budget" line).
Check any other food
Not sure about something else in your kitchen? The can dogs eat it checker lists 98 foods as safe, careful or toxic, with the reason for each.
If your dog ate something toxic, call your vet, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
Sources: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center; American Kennel Club food guides; USDA FoodData Central (calories); treat budget from the RER formula used in WSAVA feeding guidance (10% rule).
Try the can dogs eat it? food checker
Enter your own numbers below, or open the full can dogs eat it? food checker with the formula and more examples.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your pet may differ: ask your vet. Terms
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat raw eggs?
It is not recommended because of salmonella and the effect of raw egg whites on biotin. Cook them.
How many eggs can a dog eat a day?
For a 20 lb dog, about half an egg a day keeps treats under 10% of calories; a 50 lb dog can have about one.
Can dogs eat eggshells?
Shells are not toxic, but sharp pieces can irritate the gut. Ask your vet before using ground shells as a calcium source.
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- Can Dogs Eat Peanut butter?
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- Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?