Dogs are omnivorous animals and can eat a variety of foods, but can they eat mushrooms? Whether or not it’s safe for your pup to eat mushrooms is an important question. Mushrooms are a popular and versatile food with a variety of health benefits, but some varieties can be toxic to animals. To find out if it’s safe for your pooch to eat mushrooms, it’s important to understand the potential risks and benefits. Let’s explore the safety of mushrooms for dogs and what to look for when feeding them to your pup.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Mushrooms?
Can dogs eat mushrooms? Generally, mushrooms that are safe for humans to eat are safe for dogs to eat. So, the answer is that it really depends on the type of mushroom specifically, as well as your dog. Some wild mushrooms, even in the smallest quantity can be absolutely toxic and even deadly to your dog. Then there are some mushrooms that may cause gas, a bit of bloating, or nausea1.
Any mushroom species that aren’t listed, you should assume are toxic to dogs and avoid letting your dog eat them.
How to Introduce Mushrooms to Your Dog’s Diet
If you do plan on introducing safe mushrooms to your dog’s diet, it’s best to do so in small amounts to avoid upset stomach, potential nausea, or other gastrointestinal issues. It’s always best to wash mushrooms (even store-bought ones) before giving them to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Wild Mushrooms?
Even though dogs can eat some mushrooms safely, it’s never a good idea to let your dog eat wild mushrooms. The reason for this is that many toxic mushrooms can look similar to non-toxic ones. The safest rule is to never under any circumstance allow your dog to eat a wild mushroom. If your dog does eat a mushroom while you are out walking, try to take a photo of any others nearby and contact your poisons unit or veterinarian to determine next actions.
Signs of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs
If your dog has been poisoned by mushrooms that it ate while outdoors, it can be difficult to detect and can vary depending on the type and amount of poison ingested. Common signs of poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and excessive drooling. Signs can then progress to weakness, collapse and organ failure. Some mushroom species cause neurotoxicity and can cause lack of coordination, tremors, hallucinations, disorientation, seizures, coma and even death.
What Should I Do If I Suspect My Dog Has Been Poisoned by a Mushroom?
If you suspect that your dog may have been poisoned by a mushroom or anything else, it is crucial to take them to the vet immediately. If possible bring the mushroom with you to the clinic as this can help the vet identify the risks and decide on what treatment is needed. A speedy diagnosis and treatment are important to help your dog recover.
There is no specific antidote to mushroom poisoning, your vet may try to remove the toxin from the body which may involve making them sick or using activated charcoal to try and prevent any more toxin being absorbed. Supportive treatment such as fluids and other medications may also be needed. Your vet will make treatment decisions based on your individual dog and their signs.
Everyday Human Foods Your Dog Can Eat
It is best to feed your dog a good quality balanced complete dog food which you know contains the right balance of safe ingredients that they need to stay healthy. There are however human foods that can be incorporated into their diet as a treat and some can have health benefits.
Lean Protein Sources
All dogs are natural omnivores with strong carnivore leanings, so it’s important to ensure your pup gets the right amount of protein in their diet. Lean meats such as turkey or chicken ( without the skin and bones) can be a safe tasty treat for your dog. However, it’s best not to feed your dog fried food as it can cause gas and other gastrointestinal issues. Broiled is best for dogs.
Fruits & Veggies
Fresh produce, as well as some canned varieties, can make healthy treats for your pup. Vegetables that are safe include carrots, green beans, peas, sweetcorn (cut-off cob) and plain cooked potato. Fruits that your dog can safely enjoy small amounts of include apples, bananas and blueberries. Most fruits have more sugar than vegetables so they are best given as an occasional treat.
Healthy Grains
Dogs can have small amounts of whole grain products added to their diet. For example small amounts of oatmeal, shredded wheat, whole wheat bread, or cooked rice. If you notice any bloating or other signs of gastrointestinal distress after feeding them, you may want to limit these options to your dog, as it may have an allergy or intolerance
Final Thoughts
So, can dogs have mushrooms? Generally if you can eat the mushrooms your dog should be able to as well. Avoid any wild mushrooms which can be highly poisonous. However, if you introduce them to your dog for the first time, be sure to do so with caution and in small amounts. You also will want to stay away from feeding your dog fried mushrooms, and opt for raw or cooked mushrooms, which will be easier on the dog’s digestive system.
