Can dogs eat raw eggs?
No, it is best not to. Raw eggs can carry bacteria such as Salmonella, which can harm dogs and the people around them, and raw egg white can interfere with a vitamin. Cook eggs fully before sharing them.
Updated:
Why
Raw eggs can contain Salmonella and E. coli, harmful to pets and people alike. Raw egg white contains avidin, which blocks the vitamin biotin; deficiency is rare, but it can affect skin and coat. Most vets recommend cooking eggs fully before giving them to a dog.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Low energy or poor appetite
- Belly discomfort
What to do
If your dog licked up a raw egg, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea or low energy over the next days and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea is severe or doesn't stop. Wash your hands and clean up well.
How to give it
Cook the egg fully (hard-boiled or scrambled), plain, without oil, butter, salt or seasonings.
Questions and answers
Isn't raw egg good for a shiny coat?
Not reliably: raw egg white can block biotin absorption, which can lead to skin and coat problems.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date; ©2026)
- Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Benefits, Risks, and Safety Tips — American Kennel Club, Kaitlyn Arford (updated 2026-07-22)
- Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous? — American Kennel Club (Updated Oct 21, 2026)
- Food Poisoning in Dogs: What to Know — American Kennel Club, AKC Staff (updated 2026-07-27)
- Feeding your pet a raw diet — PDSA (no date)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.