Egg yolk

The benefits of egg yolk for dogs

Egg yolks can have some health benefits for dogs when fed in moderation. For example, egg yolk can:

• Make the coat shinier and smoother as it is rich in biotin and lecithin. These substances support the formation of keratin, the main component of hair and nails.
• Promote digestion, as it is easily digestible and contains enzymes that can improve food absorption.
• Strengthen the immune system as it contains antioxidants such as vitamins A and E as well as selenium. These protect the cells from free radicals and inflammation.
• Improve brain function as it contains choline. This nutrient is important for the formation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that enables communication between nerve cells.

The disadvantages of egg yolk for dogs

However, egg yolk is not only good for dogs. It can also have some disadvantages if fed too often or too much. For example, egg yolk can:

• Lead to obesity as it is very high in calories. One egg yolk has about 60 calories, which is about 10% of a small dog's daily calorie requirement. If you give your dog too much egg yolk, he can gain weight and develop health problems.
• Lead to diarrhea because it contains a lot of fat. Fat can disrupt the intestinal flora and lead to digestive problems. Too much fat can also put a strain on the pancreas and lead to pancreatitis, a severe inflammation of the gland.
• Lead to a salmonella infection if fed raw. Salmonella is a bacteria that can be found in raw eggs and can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, fever and lethargy. To minimize the risk, you should only feed cooked or pasteurized egg yolks.

How much egg yolk can my dog eat?

As with all foods, the same applies to egg yolk: the quantity makes the poison. Giving your dog a boiled or pasteurized egg yolk from time to time can be a tasty and healthy addition to their diet. However, you should not feed more than one egg yolk per week and make sure that your dog does not have an allergy or intolerance to eggs.