If you’re a dog owner, you know that your furry friend deserves the best possible care. One important aspect of your dog’s health is their diet. While most people know that dogs need a balanced diet that includes protein, carbohydrates, and fat, many people overlook the importance of essential minerals like calcium.
One way to provide your dog with the calcium they need is by incorporating eggshells into their diet.
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Preparing Eggshells for Dogs
Before you can give your dog eggshells, you need to prepare them properly.
- First, kill any bacteria that may be present on the shells by boiling or baking. To bake, preheat your oven to 300F. Spread the eggshells evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. To boil, simply add the eggshells to a pot of boiling water and boil for 5-10 minutes.
- Next, grind the eggshells into a fine powder. You can do this with a coffee grinder or a blender.
- Once you have ground the eggshells, you can store the powder in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two months.
Key Takeaways
- Eggshells are a great source of calcium for dogs.
- To prepare eggshells for dogs, grind them into a fine powder and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Incorporating eggshells into your dog’s diet can help promote strong bones and teeth.
Preparing Eggshells for Dogs
To prepare eggshells for dogs, you will need to clean them thoroughly. Rinse the eggshells with water and let them dry. You can also store the eggshells in the refrigerator for a few days before creating the eggshell powder. When you are ready to make it, preparation is easy.
First, preheat your oven to 300F. Spread the eggshells evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes. This will help to kill any bacteria that may be present on the shells.
Once the eggshells have cooled, grind them into a fine powder using a clean coffee grinder or a mortar and pestle. You can also use a blender or food processor if you prefer. Store the eggshell powder in a clean jar.
Alternatively, you can boil the eggshells before grinding them into powder. Boil the eggshells for 5 to 10 minutes to kill any bacteria. Once they have cooled, grind them into a fine powder and store in a clean jar.
Cooked eggs are a great source of protein for dogs, but you should always make sure they are fully cooked. Raw eggs can carry bacteria such as salmonella, which can be harmful to dogs.
Incorporating Eggshells into Dog’s Diet
Incorporating eggshells into your dog’s diet can be a great way to provide them with a natural source of calcium. Calcium is essential for your dog’s bone health and overall wellbeing. Here are some ways to incorporate eggshells into your dog’s diet:
- Add eggshells to your dog’s food: Crush the eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle it over your dog’s food. This is an easy way to add calcium to your dog’s diet without changing their food.
- Make homemade dog food: If you make homemade dog food, you can add eggshells to the recipe. Boil the eggshells, crush them into a fine powder, and mix it into the food.
- Make homemade dog treats: You can also make homemade dog treats that include eggshells. Crush the eggshells into a fine powder and mix it into the treat recipe.
Sources: DogTipper
Why Feed Dogs Eggshells
Feeding your dog eggshells might seem strange, but it can actually have many benefits for their health. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth in dogs.
Calcium is especially important for puppies and senior dogs, as they have higher calcium requirements. Eggshells are a natural and easily digestible source of calcium, making them a great addition to your dog’s diet.
In addition to calcium, eggshells also contain other beneficial nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. These nutrients can help support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Feeding your dog eggshells is also a cost-effective way to provide them with the nutrients they need. Instead of buying expensive supplements, you can simply save your eggshells and prepare them at home.
Potential Risks and Precautions
Feeding your dog eggshells can provide many benefits, but it is important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.
- Salmonella: Raw eggshells can carry harmful bacteria like salmonella that can cause illness in dogs. Always cook eggshells before giving them to your dog.
- Bacteria: Even cooked eggshells can harbor bacteria if they are not stored properly. Keep eggshells in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
- Sharp edges: Eggshells can be sharp and cause injury to your dog’s mouth or digestive tract. Crush eggshells into a fine powder before feeding them to your dog.
- Allergic reaction: Some dogs may be allergic to eggs or eggshells. Watch for signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, and consult your veterinarian if you suspect an allergy.
- Biotin deficiency: Raw egg whites contain a protein called avidin that can prevent your dog’s body from absorbing biotin, an important vitamin for healthy skin, metabolism, cell regrowth, and proper digestion. Cooked egg whites do not have this effect, but it is still important to feed eggshells in moderation.
Effects of Eggshells on Dogs’ Health
Eggshells can also benefit your dog’s skin and coat. The amino acids found in eggshells are essential for the production of keratin, which is a protein that makes up hair, nails, and skin. By adding eggshells to your dog’s diet, you can help to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.
If your dog suffers from joint pain or arthritis, eggshells may also be beneficial. The calcium found in eggshells can help to strengthen bones and joints, while the collagen found in eggshells may help to reduce inflammation.
Finally, if your dog suffers from allergies, eggshells may be a good addition to their diet. The chondroitin sulfate found in eggshells has been shown to help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.
Alternatives to Eggshells
If you’re unable to use eggshells for your dog, there are a few alternatives you can consider. Here are some options:
- Bone Meal: Bone meal is a powder made from crushed animal bones and is a good source of calcium. However, it’s important to note that not all bone meal is created equal. Look for a high-quality bone meal that’s free of contaminants and additives.
- Calcium Supplements: Calcium supplements are available in various forms, including tablets, powders, and chews. They’re a convenient way to ensure your dog is getting enough calcium in their diet.
- Raw Meaty Bones: Raw meaty bones, such as chicken wings or beef ribs, are a natural source of calcium and other nutrients. However, it’s important to supervise your dog when they’re eating bones to prevent choking or other injuries.
- Commercial Diets: Many commercial dog foods are formulated to provide a balanced and complete diet, including essential vitamins and minerals like calcium.
Conclusion
In conclusion, eggshells can be a great addition to your dog’s diet when prepared properly. They are a good source of calcium, amino acids, and other nutrients that can help support your dog’s bone health and overall well-being.
However, it’s important to note that eggshells should be ground up or finely crushed before being added to your dog’s food. This helps to prevent any potential choking hazards and ensures that your dog can properly digest the eggshells.
Additionally, it’s important to use fresh, organic eggs when preparing eggshells for your dog. This helps to avoid any potential exposure to harmful chemicals or bacteria that may be present in conventionally-raised eggs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much eggshell powder should I give my dog?
The amount of eggshell powder you should give your dog depends on their size and dietary needs. A general guideline is 1/2 teaspoon of eggshell powder per 10 pounds of body weight per day. However, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount for your furry friend.
What are the benefits of crushed egg shells for dogs?
Eggshells are a great source of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth in dogs. They also contain other nutrients, such as magnesium, phosphorus, and protein, that can benefit your dog’s overall health.
Can I give my dog raw egg shells?
It’s not recommended to give your dog raw egg shells, as they can be a choking hazard and may contain harmful bacteria. It’s best to cook the eggshells and grind them into a fine powder before giving them to your dog.
Do I have to grind eggshells for dogs?
Grinding the eggshells into a fine powder makes it easier for your dog to digest and absorb the nutrients. However, if your dog is a good chewer, you can also give them whole eggshells as a treat.
How do I grind egg shells for calcium?
To grind eggshells for calcium, first, rinse the eggshells thoroughly and let them dry. Then, crush them into small pieces using a mortar and pestle or a clean coffee grinder. Finally, grind the pieces into a fine powder.
Are eggshells good for dogs with kidney failure?
Eggshells are high in phosphorus, which can be harmful to dogs with kidney failure. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog eggshells if they have kidney issues.
My name is Danny Jackson and I’m the CEO and Chief Editor behind Petloverguy.com. After spending a decade working with vets and private clients as an animal behavioral and nutritional specialist I co-founded Pet Lover Guy to help other pet parents learn how to interact with, and make the most of the time that they spend with their adopted and rescued best pet friends.
Working with Ella, our chihuahua rescue, we seek to help all dog and cat lovers have the happiest life possible.
