Can dogs eat raw eggs?

June 3 is National Egg Day and that means we are all about the eggs today. This includes potentially feeding them to our dogs. In the past, we have actually talked about feeding our dogs eggs and whether or not that was safe.

But recently, we started learning about different types of eggs, and also what the potential benefits of them are to our pup’s diet. This led to us learning more about whether or not our dogs are able to eat a raw egg.

According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), there are some concerns with dogs eating raw eggs. This does not mean that they can’t eat them, however, they recommend speaking to your veterinarian first. So what are some of the concerns associated with feeding our dog a raw egg?

Is it safe for our dogs to eat raw eggs?

So what are some of the concerns that the AKC brought up?

• Salmonella
• Biotin Deficiency
• Bacteria
• Allergic Reactions

Just like with humans, eating a raw egg, opens a dog up to both bacteria and Salmonella problems. With salmonella exposure our dog, can experience symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. And as eggs get older, they grow bacteria, which can again impact our pup and their health.

Did you know that the white of an egg contains an enzyme called avidin? And did you know that this enzyme actually blocks the absorption of biotin in our (and our dog’s) bodies? This is why our dogs can potentially face a biotin deficiency if they are eating raw eggs, and especially the whites. Although it is considered rare in dogs, biotin deficiency can happen. And it is more likely to happen with the consumption of raw egg whites.

Finally, we have to talk about allergies. Dogs can have allergies just like humans. And just like humans can be allergic to an egg, so can our dogs. This is something to consider before adding this particular form of protein to your dog’s diet. And this is also why the AKC recommended talking to your veterinarian before adding this to your dogs diet.

We always recommend chatting with your vet before changing things up in your pets life. From exercise to food, all of these things can have an impact on your dog’s health, and not always for the better.