Are dogs allowed to eat raw egg?

Yes, dogs can eat raw eggs, and most tolerate them fine. Raw eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins and healthy fats. That said, the AVMA officially advises against feeding any raw animal protein, eggs included, because of contamination risks to both dogs and the people handling their food [1]. So "yes" comes with real conditions attached: moderation, freshness, and knowing what you're trading off.

Benefits of raw eggs for dogs

Raw eggs are a nutritious addition to your dog's diet in small amounts. They contain:

• Protein: Important for muscle development and recovery.
• Biotin: Promotes healthy skin and a shiny coat.
• Vitamins A and E: Contribute to a strong immune system and healthy eyes.
• Essential fats: Help maintain healthy skin and coat.

Potential risks

Although the occasional raw egg is unlikely to harm most healthy dogs, there are real considerations, not just theoretical ones:

• Biotin deficiency: A 1984 feeding trial found that dogs given diets of 20% or more raw egg white developed clinical biotin deficiency within weeks: dermatitis, hair loss and skin thickening, all of which resolved once the raw egg white was removed or biotin was supplemented [2]. This is a high-dose finding, not a warning against the occasional egg, but it's the reason "just the yolk" advice exists.
• Salmonella and resistant bacteria: A 2022 UK study found raw-fed dogs carried Salmonella at 7% versus 0% in non-raw-fed dogs, and antimicrobial-resistant E. coli at 54% versus 17% [3]. Dogs can shed these organisms in their stool without looking sick themselves, which is exactly why the AVMA's guidance also considers the humans in the house, not just the dog [1].

How much raw egg can a dog eat?

If you do feed raw egg, the amount depends on your dog's size:

• Small dogs: 1 raw egg per week.
• Medium-sized dogs: 2 raw eggs per week.
• Large dogs: 3–4 raw eggs per week.

How to safely feed raw eggs

• Check the freshness: Make sure the egg is fresh to minimise the risk of illness.
• Wash the eggs: Rinse the eggs before giving them to your dog to remove any bacteria on the outside.
• Add it to their meal: Mix the raw egg into your dog's regular nutrition to add extra nutrients.

Conclusion

Raw eggs can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet in small, occasional amounts, but they're not risk-free, and vet bodies recommend cooked over raw for good reason. If in doubt, cook the egg, skip the debate, and keep the nutrients.

FAQs

Can dogs eat raw eggs?

Yes, in small amounts. They're a good source of protein and vitamins, but the AVMA recommends cooking eggs rather than feeding them raw, due to Salmonella risk.

Are there any risks associated with feeding raw eggs to dogs?

Salmonella and antimicrobial-resistant bacteria are the main real-world risks; biotin deficiency only shows up at much higher, sustained raw egg white intake.

How often can I give my dog a raw egg?

Small dogs: 1 egg per week, medium-sized dogs: 2 eggs per week, large dogs: 3–4 eggs per week, if you choose to feed raw at all.

Can raw egg improve my dog's coat?

The biotin in egg yolk supports skin and coat health, but cooking the egg keeps that benefit while removing the avidin and Salmonella concerns.

Should I wash the raw egg before giving it to my dog?

Yes, and consider cooking it instead. Both reduce the surface bacteria risk; cooking also neutralises avidin.