Can Dogs Eat Eggs?

Check out this answer from Consensus:

Eggs can be a nutritious addition to a dog’s diet, providing essential proteins and nutrients that support their health and development. However, pet owners should be aware of the potential risks associated with Toxocara canis contamination. Ensuring proper hygiene and regular veterinary care can help mitigate these risks, allowing dogs to safely enjoy the benefits of eggs in their diet.

By understanding both the benefits and risks, pet owners can make informed decisions about including eggs in their dog’s diet, ensuring their furry friends remain healthy and happy.

Eggs are a common food item in many households, and pet owners often wonder if they can share this nutritious food with their canine companions. This article explores the benefits and potential risks of feeding eggs to dogs, drawing on recent research findings.

Nutritional Benefits of Eggs for Dogs

Eggs are a rich source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients, which can be beneficial for dogs. A study on the effects of different levels of egg protein in weaned diets found that pups fed with higher levels of egg protein showed significant improvements in blood parameters, including increased concentrations of red and white blood cells, serum triglycerides, and serum protein3. These findings suggest that eggs can contribute positively to a dog’s overall health and development.

Potential Risks of Feeding Eggs to Dogs

While eggs can be nutritious, there are potential risks associated with feeding them to dogs. One of the primary concerns is the contamination of dog hair with Toxocara canis eggs, a common intestinal nematode in dogs. Studies have shown that dogs can harbor T. canis eggs in their fur, which poses a risk of transmission to humans and other animals1 2 4.

Toxocara canis Contamination

Research indicates that a significant percentage of dogs, especially puppies, can carry T. canis eggs on their hair. For instance, one study found that 67% of stray dogs had T. canis eggs on their hair, with puppies showing a higher prevalence and intensity of egg contamination compared to adult dogs1. Another study reported that 21.56% of domestic pet dogs had T. canis eggs on their coats, with a higher prevalence in breeds with double coats and thick undercoats2. These findings highlight the importance of maintaining good hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups to minimize the risk of T. canis infection.