Can Dogs Eat Egg Shells? Essential Guide to Adorable Nutrition

Your dog just watched you crack an egg into the skillet, and now they’re staring at those shell fragments on the counter like they’re the most valuable treasure in the house. You’re wondering: can dogs eat egg shells? Is this actually okay, or are you about to make a vet visit? Here’s the real talk: eggshells aren’t toxic to dogs, but there are some important nuances you need to know before you start tossing them into the food bowl.

As a vet tech who’s seen plenty of dogs come through with digestive surprises, I can tell you that eggshells are one of those gray-area foods. They’re not on the “absolutely never” list, but they’re not a slam-dunk “yes” either. The answer depends on your dog’s age, size, and how you prepare the shells. Let’s break down what you actually need to know about can dogs eat egg shells so you can make the best choice for your pup.

Are Eggshells Actually Safe for Dogs?

The short answer: yes, eggshells are technically safe for dogs in small amounts. They’re not toxic, and they won’t poison your dog. But “safe” and “a good idea” are two different things.

Eggshells are made primarily of calcium carbonate, the same mineral your dog needs for strong bones and teeth. Unlike some foods (like pizza crust with garlic or chocolate), eggshells don’t contain compounds that are inherently harmful to canine systems. According to the American Kennel Club, eggs themselves are excellent for dogs, and the shell is just the protective coating.

Here’s where it gets tricky: just because something isn’t toxic doesn’t mean it’s easy for your dog’s digestive system to handle. Eggshells are hard, sharp, and don’t break down easily. Think of it like this—your dog can technically swallow a small stone without dying, but that doesn’t mean you should feed them rocks. The same logic applies to eggshells.

The real risk isn’t poisoning; it’s mechanical damage or blockage. A large chunk of eggshell could scratch the mouth, throat, or digestive tract. In rare cases, large pieces might cause an intestinal blockage, which is a serious emergency.

Pro Tip: If your dog has already eaten a few eggshell fragments from the kitchen floor, don’t panic. Monitor them for the next 48 hours, but most dogs pass small pieces without incident. Call your vet if they show signs of distress.

What Nutritional Benefits Do Eggshells Offer?

This is where eggshells get interesting. They’re basically a mineral powerhouse—specifically, calcium. A dog’s body needs calcium for:

• Bone development and maintenance
• Muscle contraction and nerve function
• Blood clotting
• Maintaining a healthy heart rhythm

One eggshell contains roughly 750–800 mg of bioavailable calcium. For a medium-sized dog (50 lbs), that’s actually a meaningful amount. Some raw feeders and holistic pet nutritionists deliberately include crushed eggshells in homemade dog food for this reason.

The catch? Your dog gets plenty of calcium from regular dog food, chicken bones (which we’ll discuss more in a moment), and other sources. Adding eggshells isn’t necessary unless your vet has specifically recommended it because your dog has a calcium deficiency—which is rare in healthy dogs eating commercial food.

If you’re feeding a raw or homemade diet, eggshells can be a legitimate calcium supplement. But if you’re feeding standard kibble or wet food, your dog’s calcium needs are already met. You’re not gaining much nutritionally by adding shells, and you’re adding risk for minimal reward.

According to PetMD, the best sources of calcium for dogs are balanced commercial diets, dairy products (in moderation), and cooked bones—not raw eggshells.

Choking and Blockage Risks You Should Know

This is the part where I get real with you: eggshells are sharp and hard. When your dog cracks one between their teeth, it can splinter into jagged pieces. Those pieces don’t dissolve in stomach acid like, say, cooked chicken does.

Here’s what can happen:

1. Mouth or throat scratches: If your dog swallows a large piece, the sharp edges can scratch the delicate tissue in their mouth, throat, or esophagus. You might notice them drooling excessively or having trouble swallowing.
2. Intestinal blockage: In worst-case scenarios (usually with small dogs eating large amounts), eggshell pieces can accumulate and create a partial or complete blockage. This is a surgical emergency.
3. Choking: A large, hard piece could lodge in the throat. This is rare but terrifying.

The risk is highest for small dogs (under 10 lbs) and puppies. A tiny Chihuahua has a much smaller digestive tract than a 80-pound German Shepherd. What’s a minor irritation for a large dog could be serious for a small one.

I’ve seen dogs come in with blockages from all sorts of things—toys, socks, and yes, once, a pile of eggshells from someone who was using them as a calcium supplement without crushing them properly. The dog needed surgery, and the owner felt terrible.

Safety Warning: Never give your dog whole eggshells or large pieces. If you’re going to feed eggshells at all, they must be crushed into a fine powder.

Best Ways to Prepare Eggshells for Dogs

If you’ve decided to include eggshells in your dog’s diet (or you’re curious about doing so), preparation is everything. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Rinse eggshells thoroughly under running water to remove any egg residue or bacteria.
2. Bake them at 350°F for 10 minutes to sterilize and dry them completely.
3. Let them cool completely.
4. Crush them into a fine powder using a blender, food processor, or mortar and pestle. You want powder, not chunks.
5. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 2 weeks.
6. Mix a pinch (1/4 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2 teaspoon for large dogs) into their regular food.

1. Boil eggshells in water for 10 minutes.
2. Let the water cool and strain out the shell pieces.
3. Use the calcium-rich broth to moisten dry kibble or mix into wet food.
4. Discard the shell pieces themselves.

Method 2 gives you the calcium benefit without the physical risk of shell fragments. Honestly, if you’re going to use eggshells, this is the smarter approach.

If your dog is eating a balanced commercial diet, just feed them the egg white and yolk, and toss the shells. Your vet isn’t recommending eggshell supplementation for a reason. Your dog’s nutritional needs are covered.

Raw vs. Cooked Eggshells: Which Is Better?

This is a question I get a lot, especially from people interested in raw feeding.

Feed your dog whole cooked eggs: scrambled, boiled, or poached. No oil, no salt, no seasoning. A medium dog can have one whole egg 2–3 times per week. The yolk is packed with choline, lutein, and vitamins; the white is pure protein.

If you’re watching fat intake (older dogs or those with pancreatitis), egg whites alone are a lean protein source.

If your vet recommends calcium supplementation, use a product formulated for dogs. These are standardized, safe, and bioavailable. Brands like Vetstreet-recommended supplements are better than DIY eggshell powders.

While raw bones are sometimes recommended in raw diets, cooked bones are generally safer and still provide minerals. However, cooked bones can splinter, so they’re not risk-free either. If you’re considering bones, check out our guide on whether dogs can eat pork bones for detailed safety info.

Plain yogurt, cottage cheese, and a small amount of cheese provide calcium and probiotics. Most adult dogs can have a few tablespoons per week.

Cooked spinach, kale, and collard greens contain calcium and are much safer than eggshells. A small handful mixed into regular food is fine.

The bottom line: eggs are fantastic for dogs. The shells? Not necessary, and they come with unnecessary risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay if my dog ate an eggshell by accident?

– Yes, in most cases. A single eggshell fragment won’t hurt your dog. Monitor them for 48 hours for signs of distress (vomiting, constipation, lethargy). If they seem normal, they’ve likely passed it without issue. If you notice any concerning symptoms, contact your vet.

Can I give my dog eggshells as a calcium supplement?

– Technically yes, but only if crushed into a fine powder and only in tiny amounts (1/4–1/2 teaspoon per day for medium dogs, no more than 3 times per week). However, if your dog eats balanced commercial food, they don’t need it. If your vet recommends calcium supplementation, use a product designed for dogs instead.

Are raw eggshells safer than cooked eggshells?

– No. Cooked or baked eggshells are slightly safer because baking kills surface bacteria. Raw shells are harder, more likely to splinter, and carry higher bacterial contamination risk. If you’re going to use them, bake them first.

What should I do if my dog is showing signs of a blockage?

– This is an emergency. Get to a vet immediately. Signs include persistent vomiting, inability to defecate, severe abdominal pain, or lethargy. Don’t wait. Blockages can become life-threatening within hours.

Can puppies eat eggshells?

– No. Puppies have developing digestive systems and don’t need eggshell supplementation. Their puppy food is formulated with the right calcium-to-phosphorus ratio for proper bone development. Eggshells could disrupt that balance.

Is it better to give my dog eggshells or egg white?

– Egg white, 100%. It’s nutritious, safe, and won’t cause digestive issues. If you want to give your dog eggs, feed them whole cooked eggs (yolk and white together). Skip the shells entirely.

How do I know if my dog has too much calcium?

– Excess calcium can interfere with mineral absorption and cause joint problems, especially in growing dogs. Signs include lethargy, stiff joints, or digestive issues. If you’re supplementing with anything, check with your vet first. Most dogs eating commercial food have no need for extra calcium.

Can I use eggshells to make bone broth for my dog?

– Yes, this is safer than feeding eggshells directly. Boil the shells for 10 minutes, strain, and use the calcium-rich broth to moisten kibble or wet food. Discard the shell pieces. This gives you the calcium benefit without the choking or blockage risk.

Are there any dog breeds that shouldn’t eat eggshells?

– Small breeds (Chihuahuas, Yorkies, Dachshunds) and dogs with a history of digestive issues should definitely avoid eggshells. The risk-to-benefit ratio is especially poor for tiny dogs. Larger, healthy dogs have less risk, but it’s still not necessary.

What if my dog ate eggshells and now has diarrhea?

– Eggshells can cause loose stools as your dog’s digestive system tries to move the hard material through. This usually resolves in 24–48 hours. Offer bland food (boiled chicken and rice) and make sure they have access to fresh water. If diarrhea persists beyond 48 hours or is severe, contact your vet. Check our guide on what to feed a dog with diarrhea for specific dietary recommendations.

Should I be worried about bacteria on eggshells?

– Yes, eggshells can harbor Salmonella. This is why they should always be washed and baked before use. However, your dog’s stomach acid is stronger than yours, and they’re less likely to get sick from Salmonella than humans are. Still, proper cleaning reduces risk. If you’re not going to prepare them properly, don’t use them.

Can I give my dog eggshells every day?

– No. Even if crushed into powder, eggshells should only be given 2–3 times per week in small amounts. Daily eggshell supplementation could lead to calcium imbalances and interfere with the absorption of other essential minerals. Less is more here.