As dog owners, we’re always looking for healthy supplements and treats for our furry friends. Ground oyster shells have become a popular natural calcium supplement for dogs. But are these shells safe and beneficial for canine consumption? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of feeding dogs ground oyster shells.
What are Ground Oyster Shells?
Ground oyster shells are made by grinding up the shells of oysters into a fine powder Oyster shells are over 90% calcium carbonate, along with small amounts of other essential minerals like magnesium, zinc and selenium
By pulverizing the shells into a powder, it makes it easier for dogs to digest and absorb the nutrients. Ground oyster shell supplements come in a powder or capsule form that can be mixed into your dog’s food
Potential Benefits of Oyster Shells for Dogs
Here are some of the key health benefits associated with ground oyster shells for canines:
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Calcium source – The high calcium content helps build strong bones and teeth. It may help prevent conditions like osteoporosis later in life.
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Joint health – The calcium and other minerals promote healthy joint function and mobility.
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Pregnancy/growth – Ensures pregnant and growing dogs get enough calcium for developing fetuses and proper growth.
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Urinary health – Calcium can help prevent urinary tract infections and bladder stones in dogs.
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Digestion – Some dog owners find it firms up stools and aids digestion in dogs prone to soft stools or diarrhea.
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Nutrient absorption – Calcium helps the body utilize and absorb essential vitamins like A, D and B12.
So in moderation, ground oyster shell supplements can provide some benefits for dogs deficient in calcium or other minerals. But there are also some potential risks to consider.
Risks and Precautions for Dogs Eating Oyster Shells
While oyster shell supplements can have benefits, there are some precautions to keep in mind:
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Choking risk – The powder could pose a choking hazard if fed dry instead of mixed into food.
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Excess calcium – Too much calcium can lead to bone and joint issues in growing dogs.
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Allergies – Dogs with shellfish allergies may react to oyster powder. Gastric irritation is possible.
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Heavy metal toxicity – Oysters can contain heavy metals like arsenic or mercury if harvested from contaminated waters.
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Nutritional imbalance – Excess calcium can interfere with absorption of other minerals like zinc or magnesium.
So it’s important to feed an appropriate amount based on your dog’s health, age and weight. And source shells only from reputable suppliers following quality control standards.
Are Oyster Shells Safe for Puppies?
Oyster shell supplements are generally not recommended for puppies under 1 year old.
Puppies require a specific calcium to phosphorus ratio for proper bone formation and growth. Excess calcium from shells can disrupt this balance and lead to developmental issues.
It’s best to meet your puppy’s calcium needs through a high-quality commercial puppy food formulated for growth. Check with your vet before giving any supplements to puppies.
How to Feed Ground Oyster Shells to Dogs
If you do opt to feed your adult dog an oyster shell supplement, here are some tips:
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Start with small amounts like 1/4 teaspoon daily with food.
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Gradually increase up to 1 teaspoon for small dogs, 1 tablespoon for large dogs.
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Mix powder thoroughly into your dog’s meals for easier digestion.
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Give with a meal since calcium absorbs better with food.
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Ensure adequate water intake to prevent constipation.
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Use only good quality supplements from reputable sources.
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Stop if you notice any digestive upset, lethargy or other side effects.
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Consult your vet on correct dosage and product choice for your dog’s needs.
Follow package instructions and monitor your dog’s health closely when first introducing an oyster shell supplement.
Signs of Calcium Overdose in Dogs
While occasional digestive upset is common when starting oyster shell powder, watch for these more serious signs of excess calcium:
- Loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea that persists.
- Increased thirst and urination.
- Weight loss.
- Abnormal heart rhythm.
- Sluggishness, muscle tremors, seizures.
- Frequent urination or constipation.
Calcium overdoses can have severe effects in dogs, including kidney failure in extreme cases. Discontinue oyster shells and see a vet immediately if you notice multiple or severe symptoms.
Healthy Homemade Calcium Boosts for Dogs
Rather than processed oyster shell supplements, you can boost your dog’s calcium intake through these healthy homemade options:
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Yogurt – Plain, unsweetened yogurt provides calcium and probiotics.
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Sardines or salmon – With bones included for added calcium.
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Cheese – Low-fat cottage cheese or plain mozzarella.
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Green veggies – Kale, broccoli and spinach are high calcium options.
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Eggs – Cooked egg shells are an excellent natural calcium source.
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Bone broth – Use bones to create mineral-rich homemade broth.
Check with your vet on adding calcium-rich foods if your dog already eats a nutritionally balanced diet. Follow proper preparation methods and portion sizes for dog-friendly add-ins.
Bottom Line: Are Oyster Shells Good for Dogs?
In small amounts, ground oyster shell supplements can provide a calcium boost for adult dogs deficient in this mineral. However, excessive calcium intake can disrupt bone formation in puppies and lead to toxicity.
For optimal safety and nutrition, work with your vet to identify any mineral deficiencies before picking supplements. And choose reputable brands following quality control procedures. Check labels and start with conservative doses when first introducing any new supplement into your dog’s diet.
Oyster Shell in Pet Supplements
While many people invest a significant amount of money into high-quality pet food, these expensive foods still may not meet all of their pet’s nutritional needs. Most commercial pet foods are heat processed. Heat is the main enemy of nutrients. Nutrient rich ingredients thrive and are more easily digestible when they are cold processed. Luckily, there are pet supplements available. Pet supplements are designed to provide additional vitamins and nutrients that may not be found in typical pet food products. Adding a supplement to your pet’s daily diet helps ensure they receive the proper amounts of antioxidants, minerals, vitamins and protein. Receiving a proper amount of nutrients daily supports the best possible health. One of the nutrients your furry friend may be missing from their daily diet is oyster shell.
However, not all supplements are the same. There are a few things to look at when choosing a pet supplement. For instance, what does your pet need? What ingredients are in the supplement? Are they of good quality? Where and how is the supplement made?
For instance, NuVet Labs creates all of their supplements with the highest-quality natural ingredients. The supplements themselves are manufactured in the United States, in an FDA-approved facility. NuVet supplements are cold processed to increase the bioavailability of each nutrient. One of the special things in NuVet Plus is oyster shell, which is good for both dogs and cats’ health in many ways.
The numerous benefits of oyster shell are listed below:
- Calcium, which is found in large amounts in oyster shell, is important for healthy growth and development. The right amount of calcium and phosphorus in the body helps keep bones and teeth strong.
- Calcium is also important for heart health because it helps keep the heartbeat regular.
- Oyster shell has phosphorus that helps the body keep its pH level steady. This enhances protein and enzyme function.
- Phosphorus and calcium are also important for blood clotting, cell growth, and kidney function. They help keep the nervous system in check.
Can I Feed my Dog Raw or Cooked Oysters? Health Benefits of Oysters for Dogs
Can dogs eat oyster shells?
Oyster shells are not a safe treat for your pet and you do not want to share these with your dog. If your pet did eat the shell you want to call your veterinarian right away as the shell can cause a blockage in your dog’s intestine or stomach. By cooking the oysters first you eliminate the risk of transmitting foodborne illness to your pet.
Are oysters good for dogs?
Three of these benefits include: Protein: Oysters are an excellent source of protein which helps your pet feel full when eating. Protein also helps keep your dog’s muscles healthy. Omega-3 fatty acids: Oysters contain 500 – 1,000 Mg of Omega-3s per cooked 3-ounce serving.
Can dogs eat fried oysters?
While good quality commercially manufactured foods, in accordance with AAFCO, contain these ingredients in sufficient amounts, in most dogs, there’s no harm in adding a small amount of cooked but non-fried oysters to their diet, as an occasional treat, every now and again.
Can dogs eat shellfish?
Paralytic shellfish disease is luckily a fairly rare condition in dogs, but it is a known risk for people, even when eating cooked shellfish. Oysters and other types of shellfish feed on algae. These algae produce a biotoxin that is usually present in low numbers and doesn’t cause any problems.