Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?
Question: Can dogs safely eat mushrooms?
Verdict: Only certain varieties.
Verdict Explanation: Most of the common culinary mushrooms that are used in human cuisine are safe for dogs if cooked and served without any added toxic ingredients like garlic, onions, or heavy spices. See the table below for the most common safe mushrooms for dogs. There are also medicinal mushroom supplements that can be beneficial for dogs. Many wild mushrooms are poisonous to dogs, and dogs cannot reliably distinguish safe mushrooms from deadly ones.
Can Dogs Safely Eat Mushrooms?
- Mushrooms are a diverse fungal group and vary widely in their safety and nutritional value for dogs. See table below for safe varieties.
- Cooking edible mushrooms can make them easier to digest for dogs and reduce the risk of mild stomach upset.
- Dogs should still only consume mushrooms in moderation, as the high fiber content can cause digestive upset.
These are mushrooms that are generally recognized as safe for dogs.
The Dangers of Wild Mushrooms
- The biggest concern with dogs and mushrooms is the potential for poisoning from wild, toxic varieties. Veterinarians and mushroom experts agree that dogs cannot reliably distinguish safe mushrooms from deadly ones through smell or taste.
- Ingesting even a small amount of a toxic mushroom can have severe, potentially fatal consequences for dogs. Some of the most dangerous wild mushrooms for dogs include the death cap (Amanita phalloides), the destroying angel (Amanita bisporigera), and the autumn skullcap (Galerina marginata).
- These mushrooms can cause symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and liver/kidney failure.
- Cooking does not destroy the toxins present in inherently poisonous mushrooms, which can remain lethal even after being cooked.
- Many toxic mushrooms closely resemble edible varieties, making it risky for dog owners to pick wild mushrooms for their pets.
- Symptom Delay:
- In some cases, symptoms of mushroom poisoning in dogs may not appear immediately, complicating diagnosis and treatment.
- If you suspect your dog has eaten wild mushrooms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet clinic immediately, even if your dog shows no immediate symptoms.
Can Dogs Eat Canned Mushrooms?
- Dogs can technically eat canned mushrooms, but it is not recommended. Canned mushrooms are often high in sodium and may contain preservatives or additives that are not suitable for dogs.
Medicinal Mushroom Supplements
- Some research suggests that certain medicinal mushroom extracts, like those from reishi, cordyceps, and turkey tail, may offer health benefits for dogs when given in appropriate doses.
- These extracts are typically better tolerated than raw or cooked mushrooms. However, it’s crucial to consult a veterinarian before supplementing a dog’s diet with any mushroom products.
