Can Dogs Eat Scrambled Eggs? Yes, If Cooked Plain

Why plain scrambled eggs suit dogs

Eggs are rich in protein and fat, and the AKC calls fully cooked eggs safe for dogs in moderation. Scrambling is one of the easiest ways to cook them through: the curds are soft, easy to portion and easy for older dogs with dental problems to eat.

Plain scrambled egg is still an extra, not a meal. A complete dog food supplies the balance of nutrients a dog needs, and a scrambled egg on top adds calories. Use it as a topper or a reward, and count it toward the day's treats.

What to leave out of the pan

Butter and oil add fat that can upset a dog's stomach. Milk and cream add lactose, and the ASPCA notes that pets have little of the enzyme needed to digest it, so dairy often causes diarrhea. Cheese adds both fat and salt. Leave all of them out.

Seasoning matters even more. Salt in large amounts can make dogs very thirsty, and onion, garlic and chives, all common in scrambled eggs and omelets, are Allium foods that the ASPCA warns can damage a dog's red blood cells. Hot sauce, pepper and spice mixes have no place in a dog's eggs either.

How to make scrambled eggs for a dog

Crack one egg into a bowl and whisk it with a fork. Heat a nonstick pan over medium-low heat with nothing in it, pour in the egg and stir gently until it is fully set with no runny parts. That usually takes two to three minutes.

Let it cool to room temperature before serving, then break it into small pieces: pea-size for a 10 lb dog, and larger curds for a big dog. You can mix it into your dog's regular food or offer it on its own as a reward.

How much scrambled egg by dog weight

A large egg has around 70 calories, so portion size matters for small dogs. As a guide: under 20 lb, a quarter to half of one scrambled egg; 20 to 50 lb, half to one egg; over 50 lb, one egg. A few times a week is plenty.

If you add scrambled egg to a meal, take a little kibble out so the total calories do not creep up. Dogs on a weight-loss plan or a prescription diet should only have eggs if their vet agrees.

If you like to share small snacks, a lick mat or a treat ball makes a little go further and slows a fast eater down.

Scrambled eggs when a dog has an upset stomach

Plain scrambled egg is soft and gentle, so some owners offer it when a dog is getting over a mild stomach upset. If your vet has suggested a bland diet, ask whether egg is suitable for your dog and how much to give.

Do not use scrambled eggs to manage vomiting or diarrhea on your own. A dog that vomits more than once, has diarrhea for more than a day, has blood in its stool, or seems lethargic needs to see a vet, not a change of food.

Scrambled eggs for puppies

Weaned puppies can have a little plain scrambled egg. Start with a teaspoon or two mixed into their puppy food, and make sure the egg is fully cooked and cool. Raw or runny egg is not suitable for a puppy.

Puppy food is built for growth, so extras should stay small. If a puppy gets loose stool after trying egg, stop and try again later with an even smaller amount.

Signs eggs disagreed with your dog, and alternatives

Too much egg, or egg cooked with butter or cheese, can cause loose stool, gas or vomiting within a few hours. A dog with an egg allergy may itch or lick its paws after repeated servings. Mention either to your vet.

Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 if your dog ate scrambled eggs or an omelet made with onion, garlic or chives; a fee may apply. Hard-boiled egg, chopped and plain, is an easy alternative if you do not want to use a pan.

This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.