Written by
Australian Dog Lover
16:01:00
-
0
Comments
The Simple Treat Aussie Dogs Need for a Healthier Festive Season
The holiday season is almost here! For many of us in Australia, that means family gatherings, delicious feasts, and wanting to share the joy with our beloved pets.
But while we might be tempted to sneak our furry friends a piece of our celebratory lunch, we know many human foods are off-limits. This year, we have great news! There's one simple, affordable, and incredibly nutritious food you can easily incorporate into your dog's diet this festive season: the humble egg.
Backed by insights from Australian Eggs, we dive into why this kitchen staple isn't just a perfect protein source for you, but a true superfood for your dog—offering benefits from a shiny coat to stronger bones. Read on to learn the essential health facts and safe serving tips to keep your dog (and cat!) thriving right through summer and beyond.
The Nutritional Powerhouse for Pets
Much like for humans, eggs are an amazing source of protein, essential amino acids, and 17 different vitamins and nutrients. Not only are they a delicious, healthy addition to your furry friends' diets, the entire egg (including the eggshell) offers a wide range of nutritional benefits.
According to Sharon Natoli, Accredited Practising Dietitian and founder of Food & Nutrition Australia:
“Eggs also provide key nutrients such as omega-3s, Vitamins B2, B7, B12 and fat soluble Vitamin A, which help support healthy skin, energy, immunity, and promote shiny, strong fur.”
Don't Skip the Shell: Bone-Boosting Calcium
The nutrients found in the egg, including linoleic acid, Vitamin B2 and B12, and fat-soluble Vitamin A, are wonderful for your dog’s skin and coat, helping to make them shiny and silky.
How to Serve Shells: To best serve, eggs must first be boiled. Once cooked, simply grind up the shells (a mortar and pestle or spice grinder works well) and sprinkle or stir the powder through your pet's food.
You can watch this cute video here (courtesy of Australian Eggs.)
@auseggs Egg-quisite tip for your furry friend! 🐾 Did you know that giving eggshells to your dogs can assist dental health and strengthen their bones? Follow the steps in our video for a paw-some boost to their health! 🌟 #AustralianEggs #EggShells #Dogs #Nutrition ♬ original sound - Australian Eggs
The Golden Rule: Always Cook Them First
While the benefits are clear, there is one crucial rule: Eggs should always be cooked before being given to your dog or cat, whether scrambled or hard-boiled.
Never feed raw or undercooked eggs to your pet. This prevents the small risk of exposure to Salmonella.
Amanda Walker, Manager - Emergency Animal Disease Preparedness and qualified vet, advises:
“Whether baked, boiled, or scrambled, simply cooked eggs make a quick, nutritious, and tasty treat for dogs. Just be sure to skip any additives like salt, butter, and oil - the egg will be delicious without them!”
Serving Size and Simple Recipes
Think of eggs as a nutritious supplementary treat, not the sole source of protein.
How Many: It's widely recommended that most dogs should be given no more than one full egg per day. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s specific diet.
Simple Recipe Ideas: For your pet's health, recipes should remain simple:
While the benefits are clear, there is one crucial rule: Eggs should always be cooked before being given to your dog or cat, whether scrambled or hard-boiled.
Never feed raw or undercooked eggs to your pet. This prevents the small risk of exposure to Salmonella.
Amanda Walker, Manager - Emergency Animal Disease Preparedness and qualified vet, advises:
“Whether baked, boiled, or scrambled, simply cooked eggs make a quick, nutritious, and tasty treat for dogs. Just be sure to skip any additives like salt, butter, and oil - the egg will be delicious without them!”
Serving Size and Simple Recipes
Think of eggs as a nutritious supplementary treat, not the sole source of protein.
How Many: It's widely recommended that most dogs should be given no more than one full egg per day. Always consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s specific diet.
Simple Recipe Ideas: For your pet's health, recipes should remain simple:
- Scrambled Eggs: If scrambling, omit dairy like milk or butter. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you can include a splash of water instead. And hold off on that flat-leaf parsley for dogs, as it can be mildly toxic and cause issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, or dermatitis. [Link to Scrambled Egg recipe]
- Hard Boiled Eggs: A perfect, ready-to-go option. [Link to Hard Boiled Egg recipe]
