Are Mushrooms Healthy For Dogs? 5 Common Myths
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Can dogs eat mushrooms?
It's a question a lot of us ask ourselves as we see some wild mushrooms or are chopping them up for a bolognese.
The truth is, a lot of people have differing opinions on mushrooms for dogs and there are several myths going around.
One common myths is that all mushrooms are harmful to dogs. This simply isn’t true. Shiitake mushrooms, are perfectly safe and even beneficial.
Let's explore the recommendations for dogs on eating mushrooms and set the record straight on some of these common myths.
Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?
Dogs can eat mushrooms in moderation if they are store bought with no added salt, sugar, sauce or fat source e.g. oils.
This is a general rule of thumb and In the first instance, please contact your vet to discuss your dog's individual needs and whether mushrooms are okay for them to eat.
Wild mushrooms are not safe for dogs to eat and if you believe your pup has ingested mushrooms in the wild please contact your vet immediately.
5 Common Myths About Mushrooms For Dogs
Myth #1 - Not All Mushrooms Are Poisonous to Dogs
Mushrooms: delicious, mysterious, and a hot topic when it comes to your dog’s diet. There are plenty of myths surrounding whether mushrooms are safe for dogs, and falling for them could put your furry friend at risk. But don’t worry—we’re here to set the record straight and help you make the best choices for your dog’s health.
Myth #2 - Dogs Will Avoid Toxic Mushrooms
Many believe that dogs instinctively avoid harmful foods, but sadly, this isn’t the case. The same is true for wild mushrooms.
Dogs are naturally curious and can, and often will, if given the opportunity, eat toxic mushrooms they encounter.
This is why it’s so important to keep your dog away from wild mushrooms altogether.
You'll need to be extra cautious to keep an eye out if your dog is off their lead.
Myth #3 - Cooking Wild Mushrooms Makes Them Safe
Think cooking wild mushrooms will remove any toxins? Think again. The truth is, cooking doesn’t neutralise the toxins in harmful mushrooms.
So even if you’re tempted to prepare some wild mushrooms for your dog, it’s best to avoid them entirely.
Myth #4 - Mushrooms Don't Offer Health Benefits For Dogs
While some mushrooms are toxic, the right ones can offer some health benefits. Mushrooms like shiitake, maitake, and reishi contain antioxidants and compounds that support your dog’s immune system and digestion.
There are however more nutritious fruits and vegetables for dogs such as blueberries, carrots and apples.
Always consult a vet or nutritionist to ensure you're feeding safe mushrooms in the right quantities.
Myth #5 - It's Easy To Identify Safe Mushrooms For Dogs
Unless you’re a trained mycologist, identifying toxic mushrooms is incredibly challenging.
Many safe and harmful mushrooms look alike, and even a small mistake can lead to serious consequences for your dog. We recommend you to avoid wild mushrooms altogether.
Watch Our Tiktok Video On Myths Around Mushrooms For Dogs
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The Dangers Of Wild Mushrooms For Dogs
As discussed, wild mushrooms are not safe for your dog to eat.
Wild mushrooms are also not safe for your dog if cooked.
Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs and it is too difficult to correctly identify which mushrooms are toxic or not.
Highly toxic mushrooms can be deadly to pets so any wild mushroom ingestion should be treated as a medical emergency and veterinary care and guidance will be needed.
Signs of mushroom poisoning can show quickly (within 15 minutes) but can be delayed up to 24 hours. Signs of mushroom poisoning include:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness
- disorientation
- Tremors/ seizures.
A Healthy Diet is the Best Defence
Whether you decide to feed your dog mushrooms or not, their overall diet plays a huge role in their overall health and longevity.
Feeding your dog a high-quality, balanced diet can help boost their immune system and support their ability to fight off toxins or illnesses.
This is where Years dog food shines. Our fresh, breed-specific recipes are made with whole food ingredients designed to support your dog’s unique nutritional needs. Add a sprinkle of Years Taste+ Seasoning for a boost of flavour and additional nutrients that dogs love. By feeding your dog Years, you’re giving them the best chance to live a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Final Thoughts
Mushrooms can be a tricky topic for dog owners, but the golden rule is simple: stick to what you know is safe. Avoid wild mushrooms, consult your vet about feeding safe varieties, and always ensure your dog’s diet is packed with the right nutrients. With a high-quality diet like Years and the right information about mushrooms, you can keep your furry friend healthy and happy for years to come.
Ready to give your dog the best? Explore our range of breed-specific fresh dog food today.
