Have you heard the quack about duck eggs lately? It seems like everywhere I look foodies are looking for them or farmers are notifying foodies they don't have any at the moment.  Duck eggs are a cracking (couldn't resist) hot commodity right now. 

Duck eggs are physically close to a chicken egg, just the shell is a little thicker and the yolk is a little bigger.  For dogs with allergies or food sensitivities to chicken (like my dog) then usually chicken eggs are not in the nutrition rotation, and duck eggs are a great option.  Eggs are known as a perfect whole food, a nutritious powerhouse. 

There are a lot of benefits of adding a duck egg to your dog's bowl a few times a week.

• Duck eggs have more omega-3 fatty cells than chicken eggs. Omega-3 fatty cells are believed to help dogs with skin conditions, heart health, kidney health, cognitive function, and arthritis issues.
• Pasture raised duck eggs have a higher amount of Vitamin D, this is because they are free to roam and spend a lot time in the sunshine.
• Great source of protein. Complete source of amino acids, the building blocks of protein.
• Full of vitamins and minerals: Vitamins A, B1, B2, B5, B9, B12, Iron, Phosphorus, Zinc, Selenium and Choline.

Pet parents can serve their dog a duck egg a number ways.  Hardboiled, fried (shared with you), raw, or even frozen. The most nutritious way is to feed whole (with the shell) as a whole food source.  Shells are important for calcium and a good alternative if your dog doesn't eat bones. You can try feeding your dog the whole egg and if there are any shell pieces left over, you can grind them up and add them to the next meal. The whole duck egg is good for your dog. 

If you're interested in using duck eggs in your baking, they make your cakes and pastries fluffier because they are richer in albumen. And, because duck eggs have a higher fat content than chicken eggs they make cakes rise higher and you'll have richer sweets. Good for you and your dog!