Can dogs eat
Eggs?
Yes
Yes. Fully cooked, plain eggs are safe for most dogs in sensible amounts. Raw eggs carry a risk of Salmonella and are best avoided.
Why it’s safe
Eggs are rich in protein and healthy fats, and plain cooked egg is a fine occasional treat for most dogs.
Cooking matters. Raw eggs carry a risk of Salmonella and other bacteria that can harm dogs and the people handling them. Raw egg whites also contain avidin, a protein that binds biotin, a B vitamin, so the body cannot absorb it; the ASPCA notes that raw eggs can interfere with vitamin absorption and lead to skin and coat problems. Biotin deficiency is rare in dogs, but it can happen. Scrambling or boiling kills bacteria and deactivates avidin.
Eggs are also naturally high in fat and calorie-dense, so they should be an occasional snack on top of a complete diet, not a replacement for it or a daily staple unless your vet recommends it. Dogs on low-fat diets should have eggs only with your vet's approval, and some dogs are sensitive or allergic to eggs, although egg allergy is uncommon.
Benefits
- Rich in protein and healthy fats
- Easy to prepare plain by boiling or scrambling
Risks
- Raw eggs may carry Salmonella
- Raw whites contain avidin, which binds biotin; deficiency is rare but can happen
- High in fat and calories, which matters for dogs on low-fat diets or prone to weight gain
- Egg allergy is possible, though uncommon
- Butter, oil, salt or seasoning added in cooking
How to serve it safely
Boil or scramble the egg fully without butter, oil, salt or seasoning, and let it cool before serving. Serve as an occasional snack or a small topper, and introduce it slowly to see how your dog reacts.
Keep all treats under about 10% of daily calories. Amounts depend on your dog's size, age, activity level and health, so a small dog should get only a bit of egg, and larger dogs somewhat more, and less if your dog is overweight. Peel hard-boiled eggs fully, since shell pieces can cut the digestive tract. Your vet can advise on amounts for dogs with health conditions.
Related forms
| Food | Verdict | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-boiled or scrambled eggs, plain | Yes | Fully cooked without added fat, salt or seasoning. |
| Raw eggs | No | Salmonella risk, and raw whites contain avidin; Hill's and the AKC advise cooking. |
| Eggshells | With caution | Not needed for calcium, and shells have sharp edges that can hurt the throat or digestive tract; use only on veterinary advice. |
| Eggs cooked with onion, garlic, cheese or butter | No | Onion and garlic can damage red blood cells, and extra fat can upset the stomach. |
If your dog already ate it
A dog that ate plain cooked egg is fine, apart from a possible upset stomach if the portion was large.
If your dog ate raw egg, wash your hands and surfaces well, and watch for vomiting or diarrhea. Call your vet if symptoms appear, if your dog is a puppy, senior or has a health condition, or if the egg came with other foods like onions or xylitol sweeteners. In the US, ASPCA Animal Poison Control is (888) 426-4435 and Pet Poison Helpline is (855) 764-7661 (fees may apply). Do not induce vomiting at home.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat scrambled eggs?
Yes, if fully cooked plain without butter, oil, salt or seasoning, and given in moderation.
Are raw eggs good for dogs?
No. Raw eggs carry a Salmonella risk and raw whites can interfere with biotin absorption. Always cook eggs before feeding them.
How often can I feed my dog an egg?
Eggs are an occasional snack, not a daily staple unless your vet recommends it. Ask your vet about amounts for your dog's size and health.
Can dogs eat eggshells?
Shells are not necessary for calcium and have sharp edges that can hurt the digestive tract, so use them only on your vet's advice.
Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 25, 2026. Editorial policy