Discover: Can Dogs Eat Eggshells? Exploring 5 Benefits and Risks
Any caring owner knows that feeding is one of the parameters that should be paid attention to if one wants to provide the best for the pet. However, one causal thought may arise: ‘’Can Dogs Eat Eggshells? ’’ Concerning this topic, this article incorporates an understanding of the pros, cons, and recommendations surrounding the feeding of eggshells to dogs. Advantages of keyword density When the keyword density has been identified appropriately, it is now shown time.
Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
As much as this may be tiresome, it brings us to the actual point, which is, the answer to the question – can dogs eat eggshells? Yes, the dogs are okay with the raw eggshells however the shells are still a great ingredient that should be incorporated into diets for the dog in the following ways. Another importance is the fact that egg shells contain a lot of nutrients that are so essential for your dog perhaps most especially calcium.
The Nutritional Benefits of Eggshells for Dogs:
Calcium-Rich Supplement
Shells of the eggs are rich sources of calcium which is a mineral that is wanted in the body mainly in the skeletal tissues. Eggshells also contain calcium and can be given to dogs with dietary problems or those fed on homemade foods.
Additional Minerals
Besides calcium, other minerals can be obtained from the eggshells through the following; magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. All the above minerals play the following roles within the body; functioning of muscles, and enzymes among other tasks
How to Prepare Eggshells for Dogs:
Cleaning the Eggshells
There is a crucial step that you need to take before you give your dog eggshells to consume and this is washing them. This assists in washing off any contaminants such as dirt, bacteria, or eggs that could be a menace to health.
Boiling the Eggshells
This way, any bacteria that may be on the eggshells are also killed when the eggshells are boiled for a few minutes. This step serves the purpose of making the eggshells safe for ingesting by the dog.
Grinding the Eggshells
Once the eggs are boiled, remove them from the water and allow the eggshells to dry. After that, and after they cooled down a little, put them in a coffee grinder or a food processor to bring them into a fine powder.
How to Incorporate Eggshell Powder into Your Dog’s Diet:
Starting Slowly
When adding eggshell powder to the diet of your dog, the dog owner should do so progressively. It is recommended that this should be administered in an approximate proportion of about one tablespoon of eggshells per ten units of your dog’s weight.
Monitoring Your Dog’s Reaction
You need also to ensure that your dog’s reaction to the new supplement is positive. If there are no ugly side effects, then you can gradually raise the dosage. However, always consult your veterinarian before having to change the dog’s diet drastically.
Can Dogs Eat Pretzels?
Potential Risks of Feeding Eggshells to Dogs: Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Overconsumption of Calcium
While eggshells have those advantages, a large amount of calcium can cause such troubles as the formation of kidney stones or skeletal disorders, and proliferation in young puppies. Moderation is key.
Choking Hazard
Eggshells cannot be given in large chunks or whole because there is a possibility of the small bird getting choked. This is why grinding the eggshells into a fine powder is as important as it is; it is to achieve such a fine consistency that is desirable for the food.
Bacterial Contamination
Fresh uncooked eggshells contain bacteria such as Salmonella. Be careful while washing these eggshells since the pesticides may still be present on the surfaces of the eggshells; however, washing and boiling reduce this risk, and your dog can safely chew on the eggshells.
Alternative Calcium Sources for Dogs: Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
If you’re hesitant about feeding eggshells, other calcium-rich alternatives should be considered. If you have concerns with feeding eggshells you should know that you have other options to get the same calcium:
Bone Meal:
This fine off-white powder is produced from ground raw animal bones and is popular as a calcium product.
Calcium Tablets:
Lifesaving drugs that can easily be bought over-the-counter; which have a recommended amount of calcium.
Natural Food Sources:
The calcium-rich foods include Sardines, yogurts and greens like spinach, kale, lettuce and so on that have to be given for the dog’s diet.
Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?
Jahanzaib Kaleem is a passionate and knowledgeable pet writer and veterinarian dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and educating pet owners around the world. With years of experience in veterinary medicine and a deep love for animals, Jahanzaib combines his medical expertise with a flair for writing to deliver insightful and practical advice on pet care.
2 COMMENTS