Eggshell Membrane for Canine Joint & Connective-Tissue Wellness
A yolk-free natural source of collagen, hyaluronic acid, and glycosaminoglycans studied to support mobility and structural wellness in dogs.
Yolk-Free
Collagen · GAGs · HA
What Is Eggshell Membrane?
Eggshell membrane is the thin, naturally occurring layer between the eggshell and the egg white. Yolk-free eggshell membrane powders are purified preparations containing a unique combination of structural proteins and connective-tissue compounds — including collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate, and bioactive peptides. It is included in ActivPower ATLAS® for dogs to support mobility, structural wellness, and active life.
A Natural Source of Connective-Tissue Nutrients
Researchers have identified Type I, V, and X collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin and dermatan sulfate, and other GAGs within eggshell membrane preparations. These compounds occur naturally throughout a dog’s connective tissues — joints, tendons, ligaments, skin, cartilage, and the extracellular matrix — which is why eggshell membrane is categorized as a natural source of connective-tissue nutrients.
Evidence in Dogs
Eggshell membrane is one of the better-studied connective-tissue ingredients in canine nutrition, with several controlled trials.
- Ruff et al. (2016). A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study reported that NEM brand eggshell membrane improved suboptimal joint function in dogs, and was well tolerated.
- Muller et al. (2019). A placebo-controlled pilot study evaluated an eggshell membrane–based supplement on mobility and serum biomarkers in dogs with osteoarthritis.
- Multicenter RCT (2025). A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study reported improved mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis using a joint supplement containing eggshell membrane among other ingredients.
As with all nutritional research, results vary by formulation and study design, and research is ongoing.
Joint Comfort & Mobility
Across canine trials, eggshell membrane has been associated with support for measures relevant to a dog’s daily life:
- Joint comfort and willingness to move
- Mobility and flexibility
- Physical function and everyday activity
- Owner-reported quality of life
Because eggshell membrane supplies collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and GAGs — components involved in maintaining joint mobility and connective-tissue integrity — researchers view it as relevant to healthy aging in dogs. There is currently no evidence that it extends lifespan; its strongest rationale remains support of mobility, physical function, and connective-tissue resilience.
Safety Profile
Published canine studies generally report eggshell membrane supplementation to be well tolerated. Because it is derived from eggs, dogs with known egg sensitivities should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Pet owners should consult their veterinarian before introducing new nutritional ingredients.
The ActivPower Perspective
ActivPower includes yolk-free eggshell membrane powder in ATLAS® for dogs as part of a comprehensive nutritional strategy supporting healthy movement, structural wellness, and overall quality of life — one component of a broader program that includes nutrition, exercise, and veterinary care.
Selected References — Canine Literature
- Ruff KJ, Kopp KJ, Von Behrens P, Lux M, Mahn M, Back M. Effectiveness of NEM brand eggshell membrane in the treatment of suboptimal joint function in dogs: a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Vet Med (Auckl). 2016;7:113–121.
- Muller C, Enomoto M, Buono A, Steiner JM, Lascelles BDX. Placebo-controlled pilot study of the effects of an eggshell membrane-based supplement on mobility and serum biomarkers in dogs with osteoarthritis. Vet J. 2019;253:105379.
- Efficacy of a joint supplement containing eggshell membrane among other ingredients to improve the mobility of dogs with osteoarthritis: a multicenter double-blind randomized placebo-controlled study. Front Vet Sci. 2025;12:1561793.
- Barbeau-Grégoire M, Otis C, Cournoyer A, et al. A 2022 systematic review and meta-analysis of enriched therapeutic diets and nutraceuticals in canine and feline osteoarthritis. Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(18):10384.
This article is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and summarizes selected scientific literature concerning yolk-free eggshell membrane as a nutritional ingredient in dogs. Nothing herein is intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease, injury, arthritis, inflammatory disorder, or medical condition in animals.
Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Individual responses may vary. Pet owners should consult a qualified veterinarian before introducing any new supplement or nutritional ingredient into an animal wellness program. No claim beyond the educational discussion of current scientific literature is stated or implied.