Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

Two dogs near mushrooms with text that says "can dogs have mushrooms?"

By: Max Martinson

Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

Mushroom complexes formulated for dogs can be an incredible way to boost overall wellness in the form of a tasty treat.

Depending on the time of year, mushrooms of all shapes and colors may sprout on your walking route and inspire a curious chomp from your dog. You're bound to think, "should dogs eat mushrooms?"

Lola Hemp Logo This bacon-flavored mushroom supplement has helped thousands of dogs improve their daily health & wellness.

Or, maybe you enjoy raw mushrooms in your diet and want to see if they're safe for your pup. In either case, it's important for you to know what you're dealing with when it comes to your dog's health.

Many Mushrooms are Safe for Dogs

Yes, dogs can eat many mushrooms raw or cooked. Mushrooms are an excellent dietary option for dogs because they contain vitamin B, vitamin D, antioxidants, beta-glucans, dietary fiber, and more. 

Similar to people, some mushrooms are safe for dogs, while others are deadly. Fortunately, store-bought mushrooms safe for us are also generally safe for pets. 

Remember, your dog could still be allergic to specific mushrooms even if they are edible. The ingredients we add when cooking mushrooms (oil, garlic, onions, etc.) can also be toxic or cause stomach upset in dogs.

1. Maitake Mushrooms for Dogs

Maitake mushrooms are safe for dogs in appropriate amounts, and may have the following benefits:

  • Immune System Support
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Blood Sugar Regulation
  • Cardiovascular Support

Maitake mushrooms are also rich in immune-supporting beta-glucans and nutrients like vitamin D, vitamin B2, potassium, copper, selenium, and dietary fiber. 

Maitake for Dogs Information

2. Lion's Mane Mushrooms for Dogs

Lion's mane mushrooms are believed to have a number of potential benefits for dogs, including:

  • Immune System Support
  • Cognitive Function Support
  • Cardiovascular Support
  • Anti-bacterial Properties
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties
  • Gut Health Improvements
  • Mental Health Improvements

Lion's mane may be able to help dogs with a number of potential issues, but most if all it could serve as a neuroprotective and immunoprotective supplement for our furry friends.

Lion's Mane for Dogs Information

 3. Reishi Mushrooms for Dogs

Reishi may be one of the most powerful and beneficial mushrooms for dogs. Rich in beta glucans and other beneficial compounds, Reishi mushrooms are believed to help dogs in the following areas:

  • Inflammatory Support
  • Mobility Support
  • Cognitive Support
  • Mood Improvement
  • Detoxifcation
  • Liver Support
  • More

Reishi could be an excellent choice for a daily supplement for dogs as it can boost overall strength and wellness, potentially warding off health issues down the line. 

4. Turkey Tail Mushrooms for Dogs

Turkey tail is a powerful blend of health-supporting compounds that could make a significant improvement in overall canine health. The primary health benefits that turkey tail mushrooms offer for dogs are:

  • Immune System Support
  • Digestive Health Aid
  • Antioxidant Properties
  • Liver Support
  • Energy Boost
  • Skin & Coat Health Support
  • Cardiovascular Health Support

Again, turkey tail is packed with excellent compounds that could help your dog boost its immune health and live an overall healthier life. 

So, Can Dogs Have Mushrooms?

Mushrooms are strange and mysterious, whether they're in our backyard or on our dinner table. 

While many mushrooms are edible and delicious, others are hazardous for people and pets. The information in this article should help you make safe, informed decisions about mushrooms for dogs.

See the FAQ below for a quick recap of essential mushroom facts.

What are the mushrooms dogs can have?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which mushrooms are good for dogs?

  • Some mushrooms are edible for dogs, while others are not.
  • Mushrooms from the grocery store are generally safe, but watch out for harmful cooking ingredients like garlic.
  • The potential benefits of eating mushrooms for your dog's health have yet to be studied.

2. Can dogs have wild mushrooms?

  • While you may be able to find edible mushrooms in nature, our advice is "better safe than sorry" when it comes to your dog.
  • Only experienced mycologists and mushroom foragers can correctly identify mushrooms. 
  • Many edible mushrooms have a poisonous "impostor" that looks almost exactly the same in the wild.

3. What happens if your dog eats a poisonous mushroom?

  • The result depends on the mushroom species, but eating common poison mushrooms like Amanita is often deadly for dogs.
  • Poison mushrooms can cause symptoms like severe vomiting, diarrhea, sedation, and seizures.
  • Always take your dog to an emergency veterinarian if you think they ate a wild mushroom, even if you're not sure what kind.

4. Are mushrooms bad for dogs?

You should always do your best to prevent your dog from eating wild mushrooms. Many of the beneficial mushrooms look similar to the toxic ones. In most cases, depending on breed and size, eating a single mushroom won't harm your dog. That said, there are instances when eating one mushroom could potentially be fatal. 

If your dog eats a wild mushroom, do your best to identify it, bring your pet to a veterinarian as soon as possible, and keep an eye on them for symptoms within the first 12 hours. 

5. Are mushrooms good for dogs? 

Yes, in many cases mushrooms are beneficial to your dog's health. It's important to purchase mushroom supplements that are made for dogs. You should also follow dosing guidelines very closely. When given properly, mushrooms can lead to stronger immune health in dogs, along with a wide range of other health benefits that depend on the mushroom you give them. 

References

  1. https://healthtopics.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/health-topics/mushroom-toxicity-dogs
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22381186/
  3. https://www.cabdirect.org/cabdirect/abstract/19902204755
  4. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1040638719842897

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