The Benefits of Eggshell Membrane For Dogs

A curious white dog with golden highlights gently sniffs at a speckled egg resting on a bed of straw on the ground. The golden sunlight streams in, casting a warm glow on the scene, emphasizing the dog's cautious intrigue and the natural setting inside what appears to be a barn.

Ground eggshell is a source of calcium. Eggshell membrane is something different: the thin skin inside the shell, which is sold as a joint supplement for dogs. This page explains both, starting with whether eggshells are safe to feed.

Are eggshells good for dogs?

Eggshell is mostly calcium. A dog that eats a complete and balanced commercial diet usually gets enough calcium already, and extra calcium can cause problems, especially for growing puppies. Dogs cannot digest whole pieces of shell properly, and sharp fragments can hurt the mouth and throat. Raw shells can also carry Salmonella.

If you want to feed eggshell, ask your vet first. It is most relevant for dogs on homemade diets, where a vet or veterinary nutritionist can work out how much calcium the recipe needs.

What is eggshell membrane?

Eggshell membrane is the thin layer between the egg white and the shell. It is made mostly of fibrous proteins such as collagen and elastin. It also contains collagen types I, V and X, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulphate and glucosamine, which are the compounds sold in joint supplements.

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What the research shows

There is one controlled trial of eggshell membrane in dogs. Ruff et al. (2016) gave 51 dogs with stiff or sore joints either a branded eggshell membrane or a placebo for six weeks, and measured joint pain and function with scores from owners and vets. The membrane group did better than the placebo group. The ingredient's makers were involved, and the trial tested a branded product, so we cannot assume the same result for ours.

We do not claim that eggshell membrane treats arthritis or hip dysplasia. If your dog is stiff, limps or seems sore, see your vet first. A supplement can sit alongside veterinary care, not replace it.

A sleek promotional banner featuring a jar of 'BORVO NUTRIENTS Egg Shell Membrane Powder for Dogs' against a dark background. To the right, benefits of the product are listed: 'Healthy joints and cartilage,' 'Support tendon resistance and elasticity,' and 'Enhanced skin and coat.' The company's logo, a stylized white tree with a circular gold border, is displayed prominently on both the jar and the right side of the banner.

How to feed eggshell membrane

Borvo Nutrients Egg Shell Membrane is a powder made from Spanish eggs using water separation. The feeding guide is on the pack and on the product page, so follow the dose for your dog's weight.

  • Mix the powder into wet food, or sprinkle it over kibble that you have moistened slightly so it sticks.
  • Start with a small amount and build up to the full dose over several days.
  • Watch for signs of a reaction, such as vomiting, diarrhoea or itching. If you see any, stop and speak to your vet.
  • Keep feeding your dog's normal balanced diet. The powder is a supplement, not a replacement for food.
An open human hand is shown against a white background, balancing a small black container of 'BORVO NUTRIENTS Egg Shell Membrane Powder for Dogs'. The label on the jar is clearly visible, indicating the product's use and website, conveying a sense of trust and quality in the brand.

Egg allergies in dogs

Egg allergy in dogs can cause itching, skin rashes, digestive upset and breathing problems. Allergy to the membrane is less common than allergy to egg white or yolk, but dogs with a known egg allergy should not be given eggshell membrane. Ask your vet before starting any supplement if your dog takes medication or has a health condition.

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