Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms? A Canine Nutritionist’s Guide to What’s Safe and What’s Not
Mushrooms have long been hailed as nutritional powerhouses for humans—but what about our dogs? Can dogs eat mushrooms? As a canine nutritionist, I get asked this question more often than you'd think. The short answer is: it depends. While some mushrooms are safe and beneficial, others can be extremely toxic—even deadly. In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into the facts, peer-reviewed studies, and practical advice so you can confidently make informed choices for your dog’s health.
Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?
The key to answering this question lies in the type of mushroom and how it’s prepared.
Wild mushrooms can be dangerous and are best avoided entirely.
Store-bought mushrooms such as button, cremini, and portobello are generally safe in small amounts.
Medicinal mushrooms, when properly prepared and administered in canine-specific supplements, may offer immune and cognitive benefits.
But just like any food, mushrooms should never make up a large portion of your dog’s diet, and you should always introduce them with care.
Wild Mushrooms: A Definite No
Dogs are curious creatures. Unfortunately, that curiosity can lead them to nibble on toxic wild mushrooms while out on walks. According to the North American Mycological Association (NAMA), there are over 100 species of wild mushrooms known to be toxic to dogs.
Common Toxic Mushrooms
Amanita phalloides (Death Cap)
Amanita muscaria (Fly Agaric)
Galerina marginata
Inocybe spp.
Even a small bite can lead to liver failure, seizures, or death. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning in dogs can include:
Vomiting and diarrhea
Lethargy
Tremors
Seizures
Yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)
If you suspect your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, seek veterinary help immediately.
Store-Bought Mushrooms: Are They Safe?
The mushrooms you find at your local supermarket—white button, cremini, and portobello—are typically safe for dogs when:
Cooked (not raw)
Served plain (no butter, garlic, onions, or seasoning)
Given in moderation
These mushrooms are rich in:
B vitamins
Potassium
Antioxidants
Dietary fiber
That said, they’re not essential for your dog’s health. Think of them more as a healthy, occasional topper than a staple food.
Nutritional Benefits of Edible Mushrooms for Dogs
Let’s talk about what mushrooms can actually do for your dog.
Key Nutrients in Edible Mushrooms
Beta-glucans: Known for immune-modulating effects
Selenium: Supports thyroid and immune health
Ergothioneine: A rare antioxidant amino acid
Polysaccharides: Gut and immune support
Choline: Brain and nerve health
Mushrooms have also been shown to contain prebiotic fibers that support gut microbiota—important for digestion, immune health, and even mood.
Medicinal Mushrooms: A Growing Trend
Mushrooms such as Reishi, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Maitake, Chaga, and Cordyceps are often used in traditional Eastern medicine—and now they’re making their way into canine nutrition.
Common Medicinal Mushrooms and Their Benefits
Mushroom Benefits
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)Immune modulation, anti-inflammatory, calming
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)Anti-cancer support, immune boosting
Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)Antiviral, gut health
Maitake (Grifola frondosa)Blood sugar regulation, immunity
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)Antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) respiratory health
Scientific Studies on Mushrooms and Canine Health
One of the most promising studies on medicinal mushrooms in dogs comes from a 2012 University of Pennsylvania study, where Turkey Tail mushroom extract (Polysaccharopeptide, or PSP) was given to dogs with hemangiosarcoma, an aggressive cancer.
Study Results: Dogs receiving PSP had significantly longer survival times than those without it—up to 199 days vs. the control group’s 86 days.
(Source: Brown DC, Reetz J, "Single agent polysaccharopeptide delayed metastases and improved survival in naturally occurring hemangiosarcoma," Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.)
Other animal studies suggest potential benefits for immune modulation, anti-inflammatory support, and antioxidant protection.
That said, much of the current evidence in dogs is preliminary, and more research is needed. Still, early signs are promising, especially for dogs with chronic illnesses or immune issues.
How to Safely Introduce Mushrooms into Your Dog’s Diet
Here’s how to incorporate mushrooms into your dog’s diet without risking digestive upset or toxicity:
1. Stick to Known Varieties
Use only store-bought or canine-specific medicinal mushrooms.
2. Cook First
Always cook mushrooms. Cooking breaks down tough cell walls and eliminates any potential toxins.
3. Serve Plain
Avoid oil, butter, garlic, onion, or seasoning—many of which are toxic to dogs.
4. Start Small
Begin with a tiny portion and watch for any signs of intolerance.
5. Use Supplements When Appropriate
For medicinal mushrooms, it’s best to use third-party tested supplements designed specifically for dogs.
Recommended Mushroom Supplements for Dogs
If you're interested in giving your dog the benefits of medicinal mushrooms, a supplement is your safest bet. Look for products that are:
Third-party tested
Made with whole fruiting bodies (not just mycelium)
Formulated specifically for dogs
Here are a few brands I trust:
1. Pet wellbeing - Mushroom immune Gold
Vet researched and formulated
No starch or fillers
Third-party tested
2. Mushroom Matrix Canine Organic Mushroom Supplement
Blends medicinal mushrooms for immunity, joints, and vitality
Powder format for easy mixing with food
3. Four Leaf Rover – Immunity
Vet-formulated
Includes prebiotics and mushroom blend
Well-regarded in holistic dog health communities
Always consult your vet before adding supplements, especially if your dog is on medication or has a chronic illness.
Conclusion: Mushrooms and Dogs – Yes or No?
Can dogs eat mushrooms? Yes—but with caution and knowledge.
Wild mushrooms? Absolutely not.
Store-bought, cooked mushrooms? Yes, in moderation.
Medicinal mushrooms? Yes, with proper sourcing and dosing.
Mushrooms can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet, especially when used to support immunity, aging, or chronic disease. But they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. When in doubt, work with a canine nutritionist or holistic vet to make sure your dog’s unique needs are being met.
Need help with a tailored mushroom supplement plan for your dog? Get in touch or book a consultation with Sally @thecaninedietitian to explore evidence-based nutritional support designed just for your dog.
If you need personalised advice regarding your dog’s diet or health, feel free to reach out to The Canine Dietitian at www.thecaninedietitian.co.uk. Or click here for a FREE diet assessment. We’re here to help ensure your dog gets the best nutrition possible!