Why can't dogs have egg whites? - briefly
Egg whites contain avidin, a protein that binds with biotin, a B vitamin essential for dogs. This binding prevents dogs from absorbing biotin properly, potentially leading to a deficiency over time if egg whites are consumed regularly.
Why can't dogs have egg whites? - in detail
Dogs should not consume egg whites due to their high content of avidin, a protein found in raw egg whites. Avidin binds to biotin, a B vitamin essential for various metabolic processes in dogs. When avidin and biotin form a complex, the dog's body cannot absorb biotin effectively, leading to biotin deficiency over time. This can result in skin issues, hair loss, and other health problems if left untreated. Additionally, raw eggs may contain bacteria such as Salmonella or E. coli, which can cause food poisoning in dogs. While cooked egg whites are safer due to the destruction of these bacteria during cooking, the avidin-biotin binding issue remains a concern. Therefore, it is best for dog owners to avoid feeding their pets egg whites altogether.