Eggshells
What are eggshells?
Eggshells are the outer layer of chicken eggs, which consist of around 95 percent calcium carbonate. This is the same substance found in limestone or shells. Eggshells also contain other minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, iron and zinc as well as traces of proteins and vitamins.
Calcium is an essential nutrient for dogs, which is particularly important for building and maintaining bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in blood clotting, muscle contraction and nerve function. A lack of calcium can lead to serious health problems such as rickets, osteoporosis or dental problems.
How can you use eggshells for your dog?
Eggshells are an easy and inexpensive way to give your dog more calcium. You can feed them either raw or cooked, making sure they are well crushed. For example, you can grind them into a fine powder in a blender or coffee grinder and then mix them into the food.
The recommended amount of eggshells for dogs depends on various factors, such as your dog's age, weight, health and diet. In general, however, one teaspoon of eggshell powder contains about 2 grams of calcium. This corresponds to about 10 percent of the daily requirement of a dog weighing 10 kilograms.
However, you should not give too much eggshell powder, as this can lead to an oversupply of calcium. This in turn can upset the balance with other minerals such as phosphorus and lead to kidney stones or other complications. You should also always make sure that your dog drinks enough water to promote the excretion of calcium.
What are the benefits of eggshells for dogs?
Eggshells can bring several benefits to your dog, especially if he suffers from a calcium deficiency or needs a special diet. Some of the benefits are:
- Strengthening bones and teeth
- Prevention of bone diseases such as rickets or osteoporosis
- Supporting blood clotting and wound healing
- Improving muscle and nerve function
- Promoting the immune system and hormone production
What are the disadvantages of eggshells for dogs?
While eggshells are a natural product, they can also have some disadvantages or risks for your dog. Some of the disadvantages are:
- Possible contamination with bacteria such as salmonella or campylobacter
- Possible overdose of calcium or other minerals
- Possible intolerance or allergy in sensitive dogs
- Possible injury to the mouth or digestive tract from sharp shell fragments
Eggshells, the outer layer of chicken eggs, consist mainly of calcium carbonate as well as other minerals and traces of proteins and vitamins. They are an excellent source of calcium for dogs, important for bones, teeth, blood clotting, muscle contraction and nerve function. A calcium deficiency can cause serious health problems.
To use, you can finely grind eggshells raw or cooked and mix them into your dog's food. The recommended amount depends on various factors, although it should be noted that an overdose can lead to health problems.
The benefits of eggshells for dogs include strengthening bones and teeth, preventing bone disease, supporting blood clotting, muscle and nerve function and boosting the immune system.
However, eggshells can also pose risks, such as contamination with bacteria, overdosing of calcium, intolerance or risk of injury from sharp shell fragments.
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If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊
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