How to Use Eggshells For Dogs to Improve Your Dog's Health

These days dog owners are worried about the diet of their loyal friends. There are many types of food with different qualities and nutrients, but how to know which food or diet plan is best for your dog?

One of the most important nutrients for dogs is calcium, it comes from various sources but the most economical and easiest way of getting calcium is eggshells. Kitchen waste turns out to be a magical product for dogs.

We will discuss every aspect of eggshells for dogs in this comprehensive guide. Let’s explore the benefits of eggshells for dogs and different techniques to prepare them.

Table of Contents

What are Eggshells?

Eggshells are hardcovers of an egg made up of calcium carbonate. Along with their role of protective barriers to the egg’s inner part, eggshells are used in different cuisines for different purposes for humans and pets.

Importance of Eggshells for Dogs

Eggshells are a good source of calcium and other rich minerals and vitamins for dogs. Calcium is important for a dog’s health, especially for bones and muscles. Dog owners can add eggshells to their dog’s diet to counter health issues.

High Calcium Content

Eggshells contain a huge quantity of calcium. 2000 mg of calcium is present in one normal-sized eggshell. Calcium is beneficial for the bones, teeth, muscles, blood function, and the nervous system of dogs.

Other Essential Minerals

With calcium eggshells also contain magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. These rich minerals support the immune system and enhance the metabolic process of dogs.

Comparison to Other Calcium Sources

Eggshells are a readily available and concentrated source of calcium as compared to commercially produced supplements and other natural foods. Eggshells for dogs are organic and free from additives and preservatives.

How Eggshells Benefit Dog’s Health

Bone Health and Strength

Calcium obtained from eggshells can give strength and reduce the risk of fracture to the bones of dogs. It also helps in the fast recovery of damaged bones. Calcium is essential in the daily diet for puppies and older dogs to grow and maintain bone health.

Dental Health

Feeding eggshells to dogs gives them strong and healthy teeth. Enamel in eggshells protects teeth from cavities and decay. Dog owners should brush their teeth with finely ground eggshell powder to maintain their teeth health.

Joint support

Eggshells help to reduce inflammation and improve the joints of dogs suffering from joint issues or arthritis. Eggshells can give relief to aged dogs in pain and help them move around.

Preparing Eggshells for Dogs

Cleaning and Sterilizing

Always wash, clean, and sterilize eggshells before using them to remove any germs or bacteria. Rinse the eggshells with hot water and bake them at 200F for 10 minutes.

Grinding Eggshells

After sterilizing grind eggshells into a fine powder. This powder is easy to use and mix with dog food and is also easily digestible for dogs.

Storing Ground Eggshells

Store eggshell powder in a cool, dry place and an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Feeding Eggshells to Dogs

Appropriate dosage

The dosage depends upon the size of the dog and dietary needs. The ideal dose is a quarter teaspoon of powder per 10 pounds of dog’s body weight. Always consult your vet before adding something new to your dog’s diet.

Mixing with food

Another method of feeding eggshells to your dog is mixing powder with daily food. This is an easy way to feed without any issues. Sprinkling powder over meals or blend with wet food should be great for dogs.

Frequency of Feeding

Feed eggshell powder to your dog twice or thrice a week. This will maintain their calcium levels without the danger of overconsumption.

Potential Risks and Precautions

Overconsumption Risks

Overdose of calcium can create problems like kidney stones and skeletal issues. It’s compulsory to feed according to the vet’s guidance and monitor your dog after every meal.

Allergic reactions

Some dogs might get allergic to eggshell powder, which will cause itching, swelling, and digestive issues in dogs. Discontinue eggshell powder and consult your vet in any case of allergy.

Quality of Eggshells

Ensure you are using organic high-quality eggshells. Always use the best quality and sterilize to minimize the risk of contaminants.

Eggshells for Dogs with Specific Health Conditions

Arthritis and Joint Pain

The minerals in eggshells can give relief to dogs suffering from arthritis and joint pain. This also reduces inflammation in dogs.

Dental Issues

Calcium in eggshells strengthens teeth and helps in fighting cavities and decay. Eggshell powder can be used as toothpaste for dogs.

Dietary Deficiencies

Eggshell powder is beneficial for dogs with calcium deficiency. You can see major improvements in dog health when you start incorporating eggshell powder into homemade diets.

Alternative Calcium Sources for Dogs

Commercial supplements

There are numerous commercially prepared calcium supplements for dogs but they contain chemical additives and preservatives. Eggshells are an organic alternative to commercial products because they might not be suitable for dogs.

Natural Food Sources

Bones, dairy products, and vegetables like broccoli and kale are rich in calcium but eggshells top the table with the most concentrated calcium.

Comparison with Eggshells

Eggshells provide a more concentrated calcium without added chemicals. Eggshells are a cost-effective, organic, and sustainable option for dog owners.

Common Myths About Feeding Eggshells to Dogs

Eggshells Causing Stomach Issues

Some dog owners think that eggshells can cause stomach issues. Eggshells are healthy and easily digestible when properly cleaned and ground.

Raw vs. Cooked Eggshells

Cooked eggshells are better because heat kills the bacteria, whereas raw eggshells have a risk of contamination.

Effectiveness of Eggshells

According to some myths, eggshells are not a good source of calcium, but according to science and anecdotal evidence, they are full of nutrients and are a great addition to a dog’s diet.

Veterinarian Opinions on Eggshells for Dogs

Expert Recommendations

Most of the veterinarians suggest eggshell powder for dogs in homemade diets. They always support its effectiveness and usage.

Scientific Studies

Dog owners have been using eggshells for dogs for centuries, and witnessed their dog’s better health with its use. Scientific studies also confirm that eggshell powder can improve bone density and the health of dogs.

Anecdotal Evidence

Many dog owners suggest using eggshell powder and report improvements in the dog’s dental, joints, and overall health.

DIY Eggshell Powder Recipes

Simple Eggshell Powder

Rinse eggshells with hot water.
Bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
Grind into a fine powder.
Store in an airtight container.

Eggshell and Bone Broth Mix

Prepare eggshell powder.
Mix with homemade bone broth.
Serve as a nutrient-rich meal addition.

Eggshell and Vegetable Blend

Combine eggshell powder with vegetables like spinach and carrots and blend them.
Mix into your dog’s food for an extra nutrient boost.

Reviews from Dog Owners

Testimonials

Many dog owners have positive feedback about eggshell powder and they shared their experiences that they have noticed betterment in dog’s health with eggshell powder.

Before and After Experiences

Using eggshell powder, results in dramatic improvements in dog joints, teeth, and overall health. Positive reviews show the benefits of eggshells.

Tips and Tricks

Start using eggshell powder with small doses. Increase the dose gradually to avoid any issues.

Conclusion

Eggshells are rich in calcium and other essential minerals and vitamins. Eggshells are beneficial for bone health, dental health, and joint function. It is a great addition to a dog’s diet.

Adding eggshells into a dog’s diet plan is a simple, cheap way to improve their health. Always consult with your vet before adding something new to your dog’s diet.

FAQs

Is it safe for dogs to eat eggshells?

Yes, eggshells contain rich and saturated calcium beneficial for dogs.

How do I prepare eggshells for my dog?

Rinse eggshells with hot water.
Bake at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
Grind into a fine powder.
Store in an airtight container.

How many eggshells for dogs?

Can I give my dog a raw egg every day?

Yes, you can give your dog a raw egg every day but a whole raw egg is not recommended every day. Always feed in moderation.

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