Can Beagles Eat Eggs?
About 90% of dog parents around the world feed their furry friends the big pack of dog food purchased from the local store. Though a good company’s dog food contains all the essential nutrients, some people are hesitant about including eggs in the dog’s diet. This requires a little observation from our side as well as some discussion with the veterinarian.
The big dilemma: Are eggs good or bad for dogs?
Most human foods are not safe for dogs, but eggs are one superfood that can boost their energy. Every part of the egg from the shell to the yolk is filled with vital nutrients. When given in moderation, eggs will provide your beagle essential minerals and amino acids. Carefully plan the diet for your dog, to include eggs, without going overboard. Excess of anything can be bad for their health; too many eggs can lead to obesity also.
Benefits of Feeding Eggs to Dogs
Eggs are filled with numerous nutritional factors and are a great supplement food.
They are an excellent source of protein for dogs and contain Vitamin A, folate, minerals, iron, selenium, fatty acids, vitamin B12, and riboflavin.
Eggs are a complete nutritious meal with a good source of Vitamins and Minerals for your dog
- Vitamin A for healthy skin and eyesight
- Vitamin B12 for red blood cells
- Riboflavin for the energy boost
- Vitamin D for bone and joint health
- Iron for required for red blood cells
- Selenium to prevent cell damage
Egg whites contain avidin, which can help dogs get healthy skin, metabolism, and cell growth. Though long term exposure to avidin can cause biotin deficiency, egg yolks are rich in biotin, and it can be managed.
What is the best way to feed eggs to dogs? Raw or Cooked?
Whenever you decide to feed your dog eggs, take time out to discuss with the vet about giving it raw or cooked. Some dogs possess medical conditions, which can get worse if raw eggs are consumed. It is best to opt for organic eggs that are free from additives and chemicals.
If your dog can consume raw eggs, just break it over normal dog food and stir it up. The shell of an egg is rich in calcium. It can be crushed and put over any food that the dog eats. Some older dogs, including beagles, can consume an egg as a whole too. Puppies can find it harder to consume with the shell on.
If you decide to cook the egg for your dog, the simplest way will be to boil them. You can cook the eggs in other ways too, without adding any oil or spices, as these can be harmful to them. Cooking destroys any chances of infection caused due to raw foods. So, give it boiled, sunny-side up, or scrambled.
Are there any health risks in feeding beagles eggs?
It is wise to consult a nutritionist before adding eggs to your beagle’s diet. The health risks involved in feeding eggs to dogs are very rare. It varies from dog to dog, and some may be allergic to eggs.
Digestive problems
Eggs are high in cholesterol levels. Hence, if not given in moderation, it will cause stomach problems and obesity for your pet. One egg a day is a safe way to feed. The egg whites contain an enzyme called inhibitor, which may cause indigestion in some young puppies. So, initially observe your beagle for any symptoms of side effects from eating eggs.
Salmonella Infection
Another possible side effect can be salmonella infection, which most dog parents worry about.
Most dogs are capable of fighting bacteria in raw foods. To avoid salmonella infection caused by eating foods, try to feed your dog good quality eggs from a healthy chicken. Cooking eggs will minimize the risk of an infection, but it might reduce the nutritional value. Take advice from your vet to plan egg meals for your dog.
Biotin Deficiency
Excessive consumption of eggs can lead to biotin deficiency in dogs. It is triggered by avidin, a biotin inhibitor found in egg whites. Avidin blocks the absorption of biotin, which is an essential B complex vitamin required for a dog’s metabolism, cell growth, and proper digestion. Biotin deficiency can be avoided by giving eggs in minimal amounts and in less frequency to your dog.
Few Common Questions
How many eggs can a dog have?
Each egg contains about 70 calories, so make sure to include eggs as just 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories. This way, the dog will not gain extra calories but will get a balances meal also. It is safe to give a little bit of egg each day to your dog.
Should eggs be given to a sick dog?
When your dog is sick, he might need that extra energy boost to recover soon. Vets recommend eggs for those dogs suffering from diseases of the kidneys, pancreas, and heart. Eggs will make up for the loss of proteins due to these diseases. Dogs suffering from chronic conditions like cancer will require eggs to build up lost body fat and lean muscle. Dogs lose appetite when they are ill or have had an operation, so it is important to provide them with something that can be easily digested. Eggs are the perfect choice to keep them full and improve their energy levels. Dogs that have anemia must be given eggs to treat iron and vitamin deficiency.
So, as long as your dog is not allergic to eggs, feeding them one egg a day is completely fine. It is the best way to ensure they get their share of protein, minerals, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. Prepare it the way it is preferable, raw, or cooked. Keeping artificial food flavors, chemicals, and oils away from the dog’s diet is the prime rule.
Consulting your vet for any kind of food adverse effect is necessary. If you have never fed your dog eggs, do so by starting out little egg a day. So, coming back to whether eggs are good for beagles? like, any other food, when given in moderation, eggs, can be the superfood for your dog’s overall well-being and strength.
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