Most definitely! German Shepherds can eat eggs. This is because they provide proteins that are required for building and maintaining the body tissues and muscles.
In addition, eggs contain various minerals and vitamins for healthy growth and well-being. They are all listed below.
- Choline
- Vitamins A, B-complex, D, E
- Trace elements
- Fatty Acids
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
Can German Shepherds Eat Egg Shells?
Yes, you can feed your German Shepherd with egg shells, but before you do this, make sure to inform your veterinarian.
Basically, every part of the egg is said to be nutritious for dogs, including the eggshell. Egg shells are a good source of calcium and serve as an additional source of nutrients for dogs when supplemented in their diets.
They are also a good substitute for dogs that cannot eat bones to support healthy bones and teeth.
However, because eggshells are not tasty and have sharp edges, you can incorporate them as supplements by grinding them into powder and mixing them with the main feed.
Egg shells can help older dogs suffering from hip dysplasia or arthritis. Eggshell membranes significantly reduced joint pain and improved joint function in 51 dogs experiencing a range of joint problems, according to a 2016 study.
You should also take precautions before feeding your dog with eggshells to make it safer. Eggshells pose the risk of harboring salmonella, which is a harmful bacteria. As a consequence of this, make sure you wash and boil the eggshells to kill the bacteria.
Can German Shepherds Eat Raw Eggs?
Yes, German Shepherds can eat raw eggs, but your concern should be whether it is safe for consumption or not.
Well, feeding your German Shepherd with raw eggs comes with many risks, which can also be extended to you. Even though raw eggs are said to contain more nutrients, it is recommended by a majority of veterinarians to cook the eggs before serving them to your dogs.
However, despite the risks that raw eggs are said to expose dogs to, some German shepherd owners still feed their dogs with raw eggs. If you have no idea of what these risks are, do not fret. We have them listed for you here.
- Bacteria
- Biotin deficiency
- Allergies
Bacteria
Salmonella is the most common bacteria that can affect dogs from eating raw eggs. Poultry birds can harbor salmonella bacteria and spread it to their eggs.
When these eggs are fed to your German Shepherd, either raw or undercooked, they expose it to the risk of contracting salmonella. This infection is called Salmonellosis, and it does not only affect the dogs but can be transmitted to the owner too.
The symptoms of salmonellosis in dogs include the following;
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Stools containing blood or mucus
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Loss of appetite ·
- Depression
- Decreased activity.
In addition, as raw eggs go bad, they become exposed to contamination and can make your German Shepherd sick after eating them.
Next Article: Can German Shepherds Eat Chicken Bones?
Biotin deficiency
Biotin is one of the B vitamins involved in the body’s metabolic processes. It is also said to promote healthy hair and nail growth. Egg whites contain avidin, which is an enzyme that prevents biotin absorption.
Eating too many raw eggs will therefore cause biotin deficiency as the body will be unable to absorb enough biotin needed for normal body function. Some visible and functional symptoms of biotin deficiency are;
- Scaly and itchy skin
- Skin lesions
- Dry and dull hair/coat
- Brittle hair
- Shabby appearance.
- Fatigue
- Hair shedding and loss
- Reduced growth rate.
- Diarrhea
- Anorexia
- Anemia
- High blood cholesterol
- Nerve transmission defects
Allergies
Some dogs are allergic to eggs, especially because of the yolk, which is high in protein. If you notice any of the following symptoms whenever your dog eats eggs, it is safe to say that it is allergic to eggs.
- Swellings
- Coughing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Swelling
- Hives
- Sneezing
- Difficult breathing
- Coughing
- Lethargy
- Skin problems – itchiness
Conclusion
Eggs, either raw or cooked and egg shells are very nutritious foods that you can feed your German Shepherds. While raw eggs may pose some contamination risks, you can ensure you go for fresh, washed, refrigerated, and pasteurized eggs that have been heated up to kill salmonella and reduce the risk of infection.
