Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Safe Preparations & Benefits

Can Dogs Eat Eggs? A Complete Nutritional Analysis

Yes, dogs can safely eat eggs when they are fully cooked and served plain without any additives or seasonings. Eggs provide exceptional nutritional value as a complete protein source rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids that support canine health, though they must be prepared properly and fed in appropriate portions to avoid potential health risks.

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⚕️ VETERINARY DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute professional veterinary advice. Before introducing eggs or any new food into your dog’s diet—especially if your dog has pre-existing medical conditions, food allergies, pancreatitis, or is on a prescription diet—consult with your veterinarian. Dogs with specific health concerns may require individualized dietary modifications. If your dog experiences adverse reactions after consuming eggs (vomiting, diarrhea, itching, swelling), discontinue feeding immediately and seek veterinary care.

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The Nutritional Powerhouse: Why Eggs Benefit Dogs

Eggs represent one of nature’s most complete and bioavailable protein sources for canines. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), eggs contain all essential amino acids in optimal ratios, making them an exceptional supplement to commercial dog food or homemade diets. Let me break down the specific nutrient profiles that make eggs so valuable for canine nutrition.

Complete Protein Profile and Amino Acid Composition

Eggs provide high-quality, complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids that dogs cannot synthesize independently. This protein supports critical physiological functions:

• Muscle building and maintenance: Essential for active dogs, working breeds, and senior dogs experiencing sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss)
• Tissue repair and cellular regeneration: Particularly beneficial for dogs recovering from surgery or illness
• Energy metabolism: Protein from eggs provides sustained energy without causing glycemic spikes
• Immune system support: Amino acids serve as building blocks for antibodies and immunoglobulins

The biological value of egg protein approaches 100%, meaning dogs can utilize nearly all the protein content efficiently. This exceptional digestibility makes eggs ideal for dogs with sensitive gastrointestinal tracts or compromised digestive function.

Comprehensive Vitamin Content Analysis

Eggs contain an impressive array of both water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins concentrated primarily in the yolk:

Vitamin	Primary Functions in Canine Health	Clinical Significance
Vitamin A (Retinol)	Vision support, epithelial tissue integrity, immune function	Essential for retinal health and mucosal barrier function in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)	Red blood cell formation, neurological function, DNA synthesis	Critical for preventing megaloblastic anemia and supporting cognitive function
Riboflavin (B2)	Energy metabolism, cellular respiration, antioxidant regeneration	Necessary for converting carbohydrates and fats into ATP
Folate (B9)	Cell division, DNA synthesis, amino acid metabolism	Particularly important for pregnant dogs and puppies during rapid growth phases
Thiamine (B1)	Carbohydrate metabolism, nervous system function	Deficiency can lead to neurological symptoms and cardiac issues
Pantothenic Acid (B5)	Hormone synthesis, metabolism of fats and proteins	Supports adrenal gland function and stress response
Vitamin D	Calcium and phosphorus absorption, bone mineralization	Fat-soluble vitamin essential for skeletal health
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)	Antioxidant protection, cell membrane integrity	Protects against oxidative damage and supports immune function
Vitamin K	Blood coagulation, bone metabolism	Necessary for synthesis of clotting factors

PetMD emphasizes that the B-vitamin complex in eggs plays crucial roles in metabolic pathways, supporting everything from skin health to digestive enzyme function. The fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) found in egg yolks require dietary fat for absorption, making whole eggs nutritionally superior to egg whites alone.

Essential Minerals and Trace Elements

Eggs provide bioavailable minerals that support numerous physiological processes:

Iron: Eggs contain heme iron, which dogs absorb more efficiently than non-heme iron from plant sources. Iron is indispensable for hemoglobin synthesis in red blood cells, preventing iron-deficiency anemia and ensuring adequate tissue oxygenation.

Selenium: This trace mineral functions as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase, a critical antioxidant enzyme that protects cellular structures from oxidative stress. Selenium also supports thyroid hormone metabolism and immune system competence.

Zinc: Essential for over 300 enzymatic reactions, zinc supports immune function, protein synthesis, wound healing, DNA synthesis, and cell division. Adequate zinc intake promotes healthy skin and coat condition.

Phosphorus: Works synergistically with calcium for bone health, energy metabolism (ATP production), and cellular signaling. Eggs provide phosphorus in highly bioavailable forms.

Fatty Acid Profile and Lipid Content

The lipid fraction of eggs contains several beneficial fatty acids with specific health implications:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: While conventional eggs contain modest omega-3 levels, eggs from hens fed omega-3-enriched diets provide higher concentrations of EPA and DHA. These polyunsaturated fatty acids support:

• Cardiovascular health and normal blood pressure
• Anti-inflammatory effects throughout the body
• Brain development and cognitive function
• Skin barrier function and coat quality

Oleic Acid: This monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid demonstrates anti-inflammatory properties and may support cardiovascular health.

Linoleic Acid: An essential omega-6 fatty acid necessary for skin health, coat condition, and cellular membrane integrity.

Choline: A Critical Nutrient Often Overlooked

Eggs represent one of the richest dietary sources of choline, an essential nutrient that many dog foods provide in suboptimal quantities. Choline serves multiple vital functions:

• Hepatic function: Choline is necessary for phospholipid synthesis and prevents hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease)
• Neurotransmitter synthesis: Required for acetylcholine production, supporting memory, muscle control, and autonomic nervous system function
• Cell membrane structure: Component of phosphatidylcholine, essential for membrane integrity
• Lipid transport: Facilitates movement of fats from the liver to peripheral tissues
• Methylation reactions: Participates in epigenetic regulation and DNA repair

According to veterinary nutritionists, choline requirements may be particularly elevated in pregnant and lactating dogs, making eggs an excellent dietary addition during reproduction.

Antioxidant Compounds: Lutein and Zeaxanthin

Egg yolks contain carotenoid antioxidants, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which concentrate in ocular tissues. These compounds:

• Protect retinal photoreceptors from oxidative damage
• Filter harmful blue light wavelengths
• May reduce risk of age-related macular degeneration
• Support overall cellular protection against free radical damage

The bioavailability of these carotenoids from eggs exceeds that from plant sources due to the lipid matrix facilitating absorption.

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Can Dogs Eat Eggs? Understanding the Risks and Safety Concerns

While eggs offer substantial nutritional benefits, certain preparation methods and feeding practices pose significant health risks to canines. Understanding these hazards is essential for safe egg feeding practices.

Salmonella Contamination from Raw Eggs

The primary risk associated with raw egg consumption is bacterial contamination, particularly Salmonella enterica. This pathogenic bacteria can colonize both the eggshell surface and internal contents, especially in eggs from infected hens.

Clinical manifestations of salmonellosis in dogs include:

• Acute gastroenteritis with fever (pyrexia)
• Profuse vomiting and watery diarrhea (potentially hemorrhagic)
• Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Lethargy and anorexia
• Abdominal pain and cramping
• Systemic infection (septicemia) in immunocompromised dogs

Zoonotic transmission risk: Dogs with salmonellosis can shed bacteria in feces for weeks, creating infection risk for human family members, particularly children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and immunocompromised persons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has documented numerous cases of human salmonellosis linked to raw pet food diets.

Thermal inactivation: Cooking eggs to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) effectively destroys Salmonella and other pathogenic bacteria, making cooked eggs substantially safer than raw alternatives.

Biotin Deficiency Risk from Raw Egg Whites

Raw egg whites contain avidin, a glycoprotein that binds irreversibly to biotin (vitamin B7) in the canine gastrointestinal tract, preventing its absorption. Biotin serves as an essential cofactor for carboxylase enzymes involved in:

• Fatty acid synthesis and metabolism
• Amino acid catabolism
• Gluconeogenesis (glucose production)
• Skin and coat health
• Cellular energy production

Clinical signs of biotin deficiency develop gradually with chronic raw egg white consumption:

• Dermatological manifestations: alopecia (hair loss), seborrhea, dermatitis, scaling, and poor coat quality
• Decreased growth rates in puppies
• Anorexia and lethargy
• Neuromuscular dysfunction in severe cases

Important clarification: The avidin in raw egg whites can be problematic, but this effect is neutralized by heat denaturation during cooking. Cooked eggs do not cause biotin deficiency. Additionally, the biotin content in egg yolks typically balances the avidin in whites when whole raw eggs are consumed occasionally, though this does not eliminate infection risks from raw eggs.

Digestive Disturbances and Food Intolerance

Even properly cooked eggs can trigger gastrointestinal upset in some dogs, particularly when:

Introduced too rapidly: Sudden dietary changes disrupt the intestinal microbiome and digestive enzyme production, causing:

• Gas and bloating
• Loose stools or diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Temporary inappetence

Fed in excessive quantities: Large portions overwhelm digestive capacity, especially in dogs with:

• Sensitive stomachs
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
• History of dietary indiscretion

Gradual introduction protocol: Veterinary nutritionists recommend introducing eggs slowly, starting with 1-2 teaspoons for small dogs or 1-2 tablespoons for large dogs, monitoring for adverse reactions over 24-48 hours before increasing portion size.

Food Allergies and Hypersensitivity Reactions

While less common than chicken or beef allergies, egg protein hypersensitivity does occur in canines. Both the albumin proteins in egg whites and various proteins in yolks can act as allergens.

Clinical manifestations of egg allergy include:

Dermatological signs (most common):

• Pruritus (itching), particularly affecting face, paws, ears, and ventral abdomen
• Recurrent otitis externa (ear infections)
• Urticaria (hives) and angioedema (facial swelling)
• Pyoderma (bacterial skin infections secondary to self-trauma)
• Chronic paw licking and chewing

Gastrointestinal signs:

• Vomiting shortly after egg consumption
• Diarrhea with increased frequency
• Flatulence and borborygmi (intestinal sounds)

Respiratory signs (rare):

• Sneezing and nasal discharge
• Coughing or respiratory distress
• Bronchospasm in severe cases

Diagnostic approach: Veterinarians diagnose food allergies through elimination diet trials lasting 8-12 weeks, followed by provocative challenge with the suspected allergen. Intradermal or serum allergy testing for food allergens demonstrates poor predictive value and is not recommended by veterinary dermatologists for food allergy diagnosis.

Lipid Content and Pancreatitis Risk

Eggs contain approximately 5 grams of fat per large egg, primarily concentrated in the yolk. While these lipids provide nutritional benefits, excessive fat intake poses risks for certain dogs:

Pancreatitis susceptibility: Dogs with history of pancreatitis, hyperlipidemia, or predisposing breeds (Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels) should consume eggs cautiously. High-fat meals can trigger acute pancreatitis episodes characterized by:

• Severe abdominal pain (prayer position)
• Persistent vomiting
• Anorexia and depression
• Potential progression to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS)

Weight management concerns: At approximately 70-80 calories per large egg, regular egg feeding without dietary adjustment can contribute to positive energy balance and obesity, particularly in:

• Sedentary or senior dogs
• Small breed dogs with lower caloric requirements
• Dogs with endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism)

Cholesterol considerations: While dogs tolerate dietary cholesterol better than humans due to different lipoprotein metabolism, dogs with pre-existing hypercholesterolemia should have egg consumption monitored by their veterinarian.

Toxic Additives and Dangerous Preparation Methods

Never feed dogs eggs prepared for human consumption that contain:

Toxic ingredients:

• Onions and garlic: Contain organosulfur compounds (thiosulfate, allicin) causing oxidative damage to erythrocytes, resulting in hemolytic anemia (Heinz body formation)
• Chives and leeks: Also contain thiosulfates with similar toxic effects
• Xylitol: Artificial sweetener causing insulin release, hypoglycemia, and potential hepatic necrosis

Harmful additives:

• Salt (sodium chloride): Excessive sodium intake can cause hypernatremia, particularly dangerous for dogs with cardiac or renal disease
• Butter and cooking oils: Add unnecessary calories and fat content
• Black pepper and spices: Can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa
• Cheese and dairy: Many dogs have lactose intolerance

Choking Hazards and Physical Risks

Eggshell consumption: While eggshells provide calcium carbonate, they must be finely ground into powder using a coffee grinder or food processor. Coarse eggshell fragments can:

• Cause esophageal irritation or laceration
• Create gastrointestinal foreign body obstructions
• Perforate intestinal walls in worst-case scenarios

Whole egg hazards: Hard-boiled eggs, particularly for small breed dogs, should be:

• Cut into appropriately sized pieces (quarter to half-inch cubes)
• Monitored during consumption to prevent rapid ingestion
• Avoided for dogs with megaesophagus or swallowing disorders

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Safe Egg Preparation Methods for Dogs

Proper preparation ensures maximum nutritional benefit while minimizing health risks. Here are veterinarian-approved cooking methods:

Boiling Method (Recommended)

Hard-boiled eggs provide the safest, most nutritionally stable preparation:

1. Place eggs in a pot and cover completely with cold water (1 inch above egg surface)
2. Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat
3. Remove from heat, cover pot, and let stand for 10-12 minutes
4. Transfer eggs to ice water bath for 5 minutes (stops cooking, facilitates peeling)
5. Peel completely, removing all shell fragments
6. Chop into bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size
7. Serve plain at room temperature

Nutritional advantage: Boiling preserves all nutrients without adding fats or oils.

Scrambling Method

Plain scrambled eggs offer palatability and easy digestibility:

1. Crack eggs into bowl and whisk thoroughly
2. Use a non-stick pan to avoid oil/butter requirements (or minimal water instead of fat)
3. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously
4. Remove from heat when eggs are fully set but still moist (not rubbery)
5. Allow to cool completely before serving

Critical warning: Do not add milk, cream, butter, oil, salt, pepper, or any seasonings.

Poaching Method

Poached eggs provide soft texture suitable for senior dogs or those with dental issues:

1. Bring water to gentle simmer in shallow pan
2. Crack egg into small bowl, then slide gently into water
3. Cook 4-5 minutes until white is completely set
4. Remove with slotted spoon and drain thoroughly
5. Cool and chop before serving

Methods to Avoid

❌ Frying: Requires oil or butter, adding unnecessary fats ❌ Raw preparation: Bacterial contamination and biotin absorption risks ❌ Seasoned preparations: May contain toxic ingredients ❌ Sunny-side up or soft-boiled: Runny yolks may harbor bacteria

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Feeding Guidelines: Portions and Frequency

Eggs should comprise no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily caloric intake, following the balanced diet principle where 90% of calories come from nutritionally complete commercial dog food or balanced homemade diets formulated by veterinary nutritionists.

Portion Size by Weight Category

Dog Size	Weight Range	Recommended Portion	Frequency
Extra-small	2-10 lbs	1/4 large egg	2-3 times per week
Small	11-25 lbs	1/4 to 1/2 large egg	2-3 times per week
Medium	26-50 lbs	1/2 to 1 whole large egg	2-3 times per week
Large	51-90 lbs	1 large egg	2-3 times per week
Extra-large	90+ lbs	1 to 1.5 large eggs	2-3 times per week

Special Considerations for Puppies

Can puppies eat eggs? Yes, but with important modifications:

• Age restrictions: Wait until puppies are fully weaned (6-8 weeks minimum) and eating solid food reliably
• Portion control: Start with 1/4 of the recommended adult portion for their weight
• Digestive sensitivity: Puppies have immature gastrointestinal tracts and require extremely gradual introduction
• Nutritional balance: Puppies require precise calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for proper skeletal development; eggs should not replace nutritionally complete puppy food
• Consultation: Always discuss dietary additions with your veterinarian during puppy wellness visits

Monitoring and Adjustment

After introducing eggs, observe your dog for 24-48 hours, documenting:

• Stool consistency and frequency
• Energy levels and behavior
• Skin condition and itching
• Appetite and water consumption
• Any signs of gastrointestinal distress

Discontinue egg feeding if you observe: vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, lethargy, skin changes, facial swelling, or behavioral changes indicating discomfort.

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Eggshells as Calcium Supplementation

Eggshells consist primarily of calcium carbonate (approximately 95%), making them a potential calcium source. However, veterinary guidance is essential for safe supplementation.

Can Dogs Eat Eggshells?

Yes, but only when properly prepared. Raw or coarsely ground eggshells pose serious risks:

Proper preparation protocol:

1. Boil eggshells for 5-10 minutes to eliminate bacterial contamination
2. Dry completely in oven at 200°F (93°C) for 10-15 minutes
3. Grind into fine powder using coffee grinder or food processor
4. Store in airtight container in cool, dry location
5. Use 1/2 teaspoon powder per 10 pounds body weight daily (consult veterinarian first)

Important warnings:

• Never feed coarse eggshell fragments
• Calcium supplementation must be balanced with phosphorus (ideal ratio 1:1 to 2:1 Ca:P)
• Excessive calcium can interfere with absorption of other minerals
• Dogs on complete commercial diets rarely require calcium supplementation
• Homemade diet formulation requires consultation with veterinary nutritionist

Clinical note: Inappropriate calcium supplementation in large-breed puppies during growth can cause developmental orthopedic diseases, including osteochondrosis and hip dysplasia. Always work with veterinary professionals for supplementation decisions.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs and Eggs

Are Raw Eggs Safe for Dogs?

No, raw eggs are not recommended for dogs despite some advocacy in raw feeding communities. The potential risks outweigh any theoretical benefits:

Bacterial contamination risk: Salmonella, E. coli, and other pathogens pose significant health threats to both dogs and human family members through fecal shedding.

Biotin absorption interference: Chronic consumption of raw egg whites containing avidin can lead to biotin deficiency and associated dermatological problems.

No superior nutritional value: Cooking does not significantly diminish the nutritional content of eggs while effectively eliminating pathogens and deactivating avidin.

Professional consensus: The American Kennel Club, PetMD, and veterinary nutritionists universally recommend cooked eggs over raw eggs for companion animals.

Can Dogs Eat Eggs Every Day?

Daily egg consumption is generally not recommended for several reasons:

Dietary balance: Eggs should serve as supplemental nutrition, not staple food. Daily feeding may displace nutritionally complete commercial diets formulated to meet all canine nutritional requirements established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).

Caloric density: One large egg contains approximately 70-80 calories. For a 30-pound dog requiring 800 calories daily, one egg comprises nearly 10% of daily energy needs. Daily feeding without portion adjustment elsewhere leads to weight gain.

Nutrient imbalance: Overreliance on eggs can create micronutrient imbalances, particularly affecting calcium-to-phosphorus ratios critical for skeletal health.

Allergy risk amplification: Frequent exposure to potential allergens may increase sensitization risk in genetically predisposed dogs.

Recommended frequency: 2-3 times per week allows dogs to benefit from egg nutrition while maintaining overall dietary balance.

What Are the Benefits of Eggs for Dogs With Specific Health Conditions?

Eggs can provide targeted nutritional support for certain conditions when incorporated appropriately:

For dogs with coat and skin problems:

• Biotin, zinc, and B-vitamins support dermal health
• Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote coat quality and skin barrier function
• Vitamin E provides antioxidant protection for skin cells
• Caveat: Rule out underlying allergies, endocrine disorders, and parasites first

For senior dogs with muscle wasting:

• High-quality protein supports maintenance of lean body mass
• Easy digestibility reduces burden on aging gastrointestinal tracts
• B-vitamins support cognitive function and energy metabolism
• Consideration: Monitor renal function; dogs with chronic kidney disease require protein restriction

For convalescing dogs:

• Highly palatable when appetite is diminished
• Easily digestible protein supports tissue repair
• Nutrient density provides concentrated nutrition in small volumes
• Note: Consult veterinarian regarding post-surgical or post-illness dietary management

For pregnant and lactating dogs:

• Choline supports fetal brain development
• Protein supports maternal tissue needs and milk production
• Folate essential for neural tube development
• Critical: Pregnancy and lactation require veterinary-formulated diets; eggs should only supplement, not replace, complete nutrition

Conditions where egg feeding requires caution:

• Pancreatitis history: Fat content may trigger episodes
• Obesity: Caloric density complicates weight management
• Food allergies: Eggs are potential allergens
• Certain prescription diets: May not be compatible with therapeutic nutrition plans

How Should I Introduce Eggs to My Dog’s Diet?

Gradual introduction protocol (recommended by veterinary nutritionists):

Week 1: Offer 1 teaspoon (small dogs) or 1 tablespoon (large dogs) of plain, cooked egg mixed into regular food. Monitor for 48 hours.

Week 2: If no adverse reactions occurred, double the portion. Continue monitoring stool quality, appetite, and behavior.

Week 3: Increase to recommended portion for your dog’s size category.

Ongoing monitoring: Watch for delayed hypersensitivity reactions, which can develop after repeated exposures.

Documentation: Keep a food diary noting portions, timing, and any observed changes in health or behavior.

Can Dogs With Pancreatitis Eat Eggs?

Dogs with history of pancreatitis require individualized dietary management. While eggs contain beneficial nutrients, their fat content (approximately 5g per large egg) poses potential concerns:

Consultation imperative: Your veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist must evaluate whether egg feeding is appropriate based on:

• Severity and recurrence of pancreatitis episodes
• Current dietary management protocol
• Triglyceride levels and fat tolerance
• Overall nutritional status

If approved by veterinarian:

• Use only egg whites initially (minimal fat content)
• Introduce single teaspoon portions
• Monitor closely for signs of recurrence (vomiting, abdominal pain, anorexia)
• Consider eggs from specialized low-fat preparations

Alternative: For dogs requiring strict fat restriction, egg whites alone may provide protein benefits without yolk lipids, though this reduces overall nutritional value.

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Conclusion: Evidence-Based Recommendations for Feeding Eggs to Dogs

Based on comprehensive analysis of the nutrient profiles, potential risks, and clinical evidence, eggs represent a safe and nutritionally beneficial supplemental food for most dogs when prepared and portioned appropriately.

Key takeaways from canine nutritional science:

✅ Feed only fully cooked eggs prepared without additives to eliminate Salmonella risk and deactivate avidin

✅ Maintain portion control at 10% or less of daily caloric intake, typically 1/4 to 1 whole egg depending on dog size, 2-3 times weekly

✅ Monitor individual response as dogs vary in food tolerance, allergic predisposition, and nutritional needs

✅ Integrate into balanced diet rather than using eggs as meal replacement or excessive supplementation

✅ Consult veterinary professionals before feeding eggs to dogs with pancreatitis history, food allergies, obesity, kidney disease, or those consuming therapeutic diets

✅ Introduce gradually using stepped protocol to assess tolerance

✅ Avoid raw eggs despite claims in raw feeding communities due to substantiated bacterial and biotin absorption risks

The scientific literature and clinical experience support eggs as a valuable addition to canine nutrition, providing complete protein, essential vitamins and minerals, beneficial fatty acids, and choline. By following evidence-based preparation methods and appropriate feeding guidelines, dogs can safely enjoy the nutritional benefits eggs offer while minimizing potential health risks.

Always prioritize veterinary guidance for your individual dog’s dietary needs, as nutrition requirements vary based on life stage, health status, activity level, and breed characteristics. Eggs should complement—not replace—nutritionally complete and balanced commercial dog foods formulated to meet AAFCO standards or properly formulated homemade diets created by board-certified veterinary nutritionists.

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References and Further Reading:

• American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat Eggs?” Expert Advice on Canine Nutrition.
• PetMD. “Can Dogs Eat Eggs?” Veterinary-Reviewed Nutritional Guidance.
• Chewy Pet Central. “Can Dogs Eat Eggs?” Evidence-Based Feeding Recommendations.
• Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Dog Food Nutrient Profiles.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Salmonella and Pet Food Safety Guidelines.