Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms? Safe & Toxic Mushrooms for Dogs

A Complete Guide on if Dogs Can Eat Mushrooms

Mushrooms are a common ingredient in many human meals, but as a dog owner, you may wonder: Can dogs eat mushrooms? The short answer is some mushrooms are safe, while others can be highly toxic. Knowing which mushrooms your dog can eat and which to avoid is essential for keeping your furry friend safe.

Mushrooms That Dogs Can Eat

Dogs can eat certain store-bought mushrooms in moderation. These include:

• White Button Mushrooms
• Cremini Mushrooms
• Portobello Mushrooms
• Shiitake Mushrooms
• Oyster Mushrooms
• Maitake Mushrooms

These mushrooms are non-toxic to dogs and can even provide some health benefits, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. However, they should always be cooked and served plain (without butter, garlic, onions, or seasonings) to avoid digestive upset.

Toxic Mushrooms for Dogs

Many wild mushrooms can be extremely dangerous, even deadly, for dogs. Some of the most toxic varieties include:

1. Amanita Phalloides (Death Cap)

• One of the deadliest mushrooms for dogs (and humans).
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure, and death.

2. Galerina Marginata (Deadly Galerina)

• Contains the same toxins as Death Caps.
• Symptoms: Gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, and eventual organ failure.

3. Amanita Muscaria (Fly Agaric)

• Contains hallucinogenic toxins.
• Symptoms: Confusion, tremors, seizures, drooling, and lethargy.

4. Gyromitra (False Morel)

• Highly toxic to the liver.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and seizures.

5. Clitocybe and Inocybe Species

• Contain muscarine, which affects the nervous system.
• Symptoms: Excessive drooling, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and seizures.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Mushroom

If you suspect your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, take immediate action:

1. Stay Calm

Panicking won’t help, but quick action is crucial.

2. Remove Any Remaining Mushrooms

If there are more in the area, remove them to prevent further ingestion.

3. Take a Photo of the Mushroom

This can help your vet or a mycologist (mushroom expert) identify it.

4. Call Your Veterinarian or Pet Poison Hotline

Immediate professional guidance can save your dog’s life.

5. Watch for Symptoms

Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can appear within minutes to hours and may include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Drooling
• Lethargy
• Tremors or seizures
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes)
• Loss of coordination

6. Do Not Try to Treat at Home

Inducing vomiting or giving home remedies can worsen the situation. Always consult a vet first.

How to Prevent Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

• Avoid letting your dog roam in wooded or damp areas where wild mushrooms are common.
• Regularly inspect your yard and remove any mushrooms.
• Train your dog with the “leave it” command to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Stick to store-bought mushrooms if you choose to share mushrooms with your dog.

Final Thoughts

So, can dogs eat mushrooms? The answer is yes, but only safe, store-bought varieties in moderation. Wild mushrooms pose a serious risk, and even experienced foragers can have difficulty identifying toxic ones. If your dog ever eats a wild mushroom, don’t take chances—seek immediate veterinary attention. Keeping your dog safe from toxic mushrooms is essential for their health and well-being.