Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms? Find Out What’s Safe & What’s Toxic!

Dogs are curious creatures. If they sniff something edible on a walk, chances are they’ll try to eat it. Mushrooms, both wild and store-bought, often raise questions for pet owners. Are mushrooms safe for dogs? Or are they dangerous, even fatal? This guide will explore the types of mushrooms dogs can and cannot eat, symptoms of mushroom poisoning, safety tips, and veterinary advice to ensure your furry friend stays healthy and safe.

Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?

Many store-bought mushrooms like white button, cremini, and portobello are safe for dogs if cooked plain and served in moderation. These types are non-toxic and may even offer minor nutritional benefits like fiber and B vitamins. However, wild mushrooms are a different story — many species found outdoors can be extremely toxic to dogs and even fatal if ingested.

The key is: only feed your dog mushrooms that you would safely eat yourself — cooked without butter, garlic, onions, or seasoning. If your dog eats an unknown mushroom in the yard or during a walk, contact a vet immediately

Also read: Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken?

Are Mushrooms Safe for Dogs?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. Some mushrooms are safe, while others can be deadly. Store-bought mushrooms like button or portobello are generally non-toxic to dogs if given in small amounts. However, wild mushrooms are a completely different story. Many wild varieties are extremely toxic and can cause severe health issues, or even death, in dogs. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to avoid feeding your dog mushrooms unless you’re 100% sure they’re safe.

Safe Mushrooms for Dogs

Some mushrooms found in grocery stores can be fed to dogs in cooked form and small amounts. These include:

• White Button Mushrooms
• Portobello Mushrooms
• Cremini Mushrooms
• Shiitake Mushrooms
• Reishi Mushrooms (limited and vet-approved)

These mushrooms are not toxic to dogs. When cooked plain (without butter, salt, garlic, or onions), they may even offer some health benefits like fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. However, mushrooms should never replace a dog’s balanced diet. Always consult your vet before adding new foods.

Toxic Mushrooms to Avoid

There are over 14,000 species of mushrooms, and many wild varieties are highly toxic to dogs. Here are a few dangerous types to avoid:

• Amanita phalloides (Death Cap)
• Galerina marginata
• Inocybe spp.
• Clitocybe dealbata
• Gyromitra spp. (False Morels)

These mushrooms contain deadly toxins that can lead to liver failure, seizures, gastrointestinal distress, and death. They are commonly found in forests, parks, and even backyards. If your dog eats a wild mushroom, treat it as a medical emergency.

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Common Symptoms of Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs

Mushroom poisoning symptoms vary depending on the type ingested but may include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Lethargy or weakness
• Seizures or tremors
• Excessive drooling
• Abdominal pain
• Jaundice (yellow gums or eyes)
• Uncoordinated movement (ataxia)
• Collapse or coma

Some symptoms appear within 30 minutes, while others may be delayed for 6–24 hours. If your dog shows any of these signs after eating a mushroom, get veterinary help immediately.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Mushroom

If you suspect your dog has eaten a mushroom:

1. Remove any leftover mushrooms from their mouth or area.
2. Take photos of the mushroom if possible.
3. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
4. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately.
5. Bring your dog and the mushroom sample (in a paper bag) to the clinic.

Time is critical. The faster your dog gets treatment, the better their chances of survival.

How to Safely Feed Mushrooms to Dogs

If you plan to offer your dog mushrooms, follow these safety tips:

• Always cook mushrooms — avoid raw varieties.
• Serve plain, without butter, salt, garlic, or onions.
• Start with a small amount and observe for reactions.
• Avoid canned or processed mushrooms with preservatives.
• Never feed mushrooms from your yard or foraging trips.

Introduce mushrooms like any new food — gradually and in moderation. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may still react even to safe varieties.

Can Dogs Eat Cooked Mushrooms?

Yes, dogs can eat some types of cooked mushrooms, but only if they are plain and given in moderation. Avoid seasoning mushrooms with:

• Garlic or onion (toxic to dogs)
• Salt or butter (can cause pancreatitis or salt poisoning)
• Sauces or spices

Plainly cooked white or portobello mushrooms might offer mild benefits, but they should never be a staple food. Think of them as an occasional treat.

Are Store-Bought Mushrooms Nutritious for Dogs?

Store-bought mushrooms do have nutritional benefits. They contain:

• Protein
• Fiber
• B vitamins (B2, B3, B5)
• Minerals like selenium and potassium
• Antioxidants

While these nutrients are great for humans, dogs get most of their nutritional needs from quality dog food. So while safe mushrooms may be a low-calorie snack, they shouldn’t replace a balanced diet.

Are Medicinal Mushrooms Good for Dogs?

Some pet owners explore medicinal mushrooms like reishi, maitake, and turkey tail for their dogs due to potential anti-inflammatory or immune-boosting properties. However, these should only be given under veterinary supervision. Dosage, quality, and preparation vary widely and could pose risks if not administered properly.

Why Wild Mushrooms Are So Dangerous for Dogs

Unlike humans, dogs can’t differentiate between edible and toxic mushrooms. Some wild varieties look nearly identical to edible ones. Even small amounts of poisonous mushrooms can cause severe toxicity in dogs. Unfortunately, mushroom poisoning is common in dogs because they explore with their mouths and often eat things quickly before owners notice.

Are Puppies More at Risk?

Yes, puppies are more curious and tend to chew or eat random objects during walks. Their smaller body size also makes them more vulnerable to mushroom toxins. What might cause mild symptoms in a large dog could be fatal for a puppy. Always supervise young dogs in outdoor areas where wild mushrooms grow.

Veterinary Treatment for Mushroom Poisoning

Veterinarians may treat mushroom poisoning by:

• Inducing vomiting (if caught early)
• Administering activated charcoal to absorb toxins
• Providing IV fluids to support kidney and liver function
• Using anti-nausea and anti-seizure medications
• Performing blood tests to monitor organ function

Hospitalization may be required for 24 to 72 hours depending on severity. Early treatment dramatically improves recovery chances.

Mushrooms in Dog Food: Safe or Not?

Some premium dog foods and supplements use mushroom extracts, like shiitake or reishi, for their health benefits. These are usually added in safe, regulated amounts. However, always verify with your vet before feeding any new supplement or food product. Not all dogs react the same way, and your pet may have sensitivities.

Are Mushrooms Safe for Dogs?

Yes—and no. Some mushrooms are perfectly safe and can offer nutritional benefits to your dog. But others? They can be dangerous or even deadly.

• Store-bought, edible mushrooms like shiitake, maitake, reishi, or white button mushrooms are generally safe when properly prepared.
• Wild mushrooms, on the other hand, can be toxic, and you should never let your dog eat them.

That’s why the answer depends on what kind of mushroom you’re talking about.

Why Are Mushrooms in Dog Food in 2025

Mushrooms have become a bit of a superstar ingredient in the pet world. Here’s why dog food brands are adding them:

• Immune support: Certain mushrooms like turkey tail and reishi are believed to support immune health.
• Antioxidants: Mushrooms are rich in antioxidants, which help fight inflammation.
• Digestive health: Some varieties aid digestion and gut health.
• Natural source of nutrients: They’re packed with B vitamins, selenium, fiber, and potassium.

Dog food companies in 2025 are looking for natural, functional ingredients—and mushrooms fit that role.

Safe Mushrooms Commonly Used in Dog Foods

Here’s a quick list of mushrooms that are generally safe and healthy for dogs when used correctly:

Mushroom Type	Benefits for Dogs	Notes
Shiitake	Immune-boosting, supports heart health	Should be cooked
Maitake	Helps regulate blood sugar	Often found in supplements
Reishi	Reduces inflammation, supports liver	Not for daily feeding
Turkey Tail	Supports cancer defense, gut health	Used in medicinal doses
White Button	Safe and gentle, basic nutrition	Often used in homemade diets

Reminder: Even these mushrooms should be given in moderation, and never raw.

Dangerous Mushrooms to Avoid

Wild mushrooms are a big no for dogs. Some of the most dangerous types include:

• Amanita phalloides (aka Death Cap)
• Galerina marginata
• Inocybe species
• Clitocybe dealbata

Even a tiny bite of these can lead to vomiting, seizures, liver failure, or death. If you suspect your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, go to the vet immediately.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Mushrooms?

Yes, it’s rare, but some dogs may react badly to mushrooms. Watch for:

• Itchy skin or rash
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Lethargy

If your dog has never eaten mushrooms before, start with a tiny amount and monitor for any signs of sensitivity.

What Vets Say About Mushrooms in Dog Food

Most vets agree that certain mushrooms—when used in moderation and from a safe source—can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet.

However, veterinarians also emphasize:

• Not all mushrooms are equal.
• Quality and preparation matter.
• Supplements with mushrooms should be given under professional guidance.

How to Safely Give Mushrooms to Your Dog

If you’re thinking about adding mushrooms to your dog’s diet or switching to a dog food with mushrooms, here are some safety tips:

1. Only use dog-safe varieties.
2. Avoid raw mushrooms. Always cook them (no oil, garlic, or butter).
3. Start small. Introduce slowly to see how your dog reacts.
4. Read labels carefully if buying commercial food.
5. Avoid wild mushrooms at all costs, even in your yard or parks.

Homemade Dog Food? Here’s What to Do

If you prepare homemade meals for your dog, you can include cooked shiitake, maitake, or white button mushrooms in small amounts. Avoid using seasonings, sauces, onions, or garlic—they’re toxic to dogs.

Myths and Misconceptions About Dogs and Mushrooms

Mushrooms can be a confusing topic for pet parents. One minute you hear they’re toxic, the next you see mushroom-based dog treats on the shelf. So what’s the truth?

Let’s clear up the myths and misinformation surrounding dogs and mushrooms so you can make safe, smart decisions for your pup.

All Mushrooms Are Toxic to Dogs

Not every mushroom is dangerous for dogs. In fact, many mushrooms that humans eat — like white button mushrooms or shiitake — can be safe for dogs in small, cooked amounts. But the wild ones growing in your backyard or during a hike? That’s a big red flag.

Stick to store-bought, dog-safe mushrooms and avoid letting your dog sniff or eat any wild mushrooms outdoors.

Dogs Instinctively Know Which Mushrooms Are Poisonous

Sadly, dogs don’t have a built-in “mushroom detector.” They often explore the world with their noses and mouths, which means they can easily eat something harmful without realizing it.

Takeaway: Don’t rely on your dog’s instincts. Supervise them during walks and check your yard for unwanted mushrooms regularly.

A Small Amount of a Toxic Mushroom Won’t Harm My Dog

Even a tiny bite of the wrong mushroom can cause serious problems — from vomiting and diarrhea to liver failure or death. Some toxic mushrooms (like Amanita species) can be lethal in small doses.

Don’t take chances. If your dog eats a wild mushroom, treat it like an emergency and contact your vet immediately.

Cooking Mushrooms Makes All of Them Safe for Dogs

Cooking can make some mushrooms easier to digest, but it doesn’t make toxic mushrooms safe. Poisonous mushrooms remain dangerous, even when sautéed or boiled.

Only feed mushrooms that are both safe for dogs and cooked without butter, garlic, onion, or other toxic ingredients.

Dog Food with Mushrooms Is Automatically Dangerous

Some commercial dog foods and treats include safe mushrooms like reish, turkey tail, or shiitake, which can actually support your dog’s immune system. These are added in controlled, safe amounts and undergo testing.

Look for reputable dog food brands. Don’t be afraid of mushrooms on the label — just make sure they’re pet-safe varieties.

If My Dog Seems Fine After Eating a Wild Mushroom, There’s No Need to Worry

Some toxic mushrooms have delayed symptoms — meaning your dog might seem fine for hours, even days, before showing signs of poisoning. By then, it may be too late to reverse the damage.

Always contact your vet immediately if your dog eats a wild mushroom, even if they look okay.

Only Wild Mushrooms Are Harmful — Store-Bought Ones Are 100% Safe

While store-bought mushrooms are generally safe, they must still be prepared properly. Raw mushrooms can be hard on a dog’s stomach and may lead to gastrointestinal upse

If you’re feeding store-bought mushrooms, always wash, cook, and chop them — and offer in moderation.

My Dog Has Eaten Mushrooms Before and Was Fine, So It’s Always Safe

Just because your dog ate a mushroom once and didn’t get sick doesn’t mean it’s safe the next time. Different mushroom species look similar — and your dog’s tolerance may change over time.

Never assume safety based on past experiences. Each mushroom encounter should be treated with caution.

Expert Opinions: What Veterinarians Say

Veterinary toxicologists strongly warn against allowing dogs near wild mushrooms. According to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, hundreds of mushroom poisoning cases are reported each year. Many are preventable. Vets agree that while store-bought mushrooms are usually safe in small quantities, they aren’t necessary for a dog’s diet. Most recommend avoiding them altogether unless advised otherwise.

Conclusion

Dogs can eat certain store-bought mushrooms in small, cooked, and unseasoned portions. However, wild mushrooms are extremely risky and potentially deadly. Always err on the side of caution. Supervise your dog during walks, clear your yard, and seek vet advice before offering mushrooms as a treat. When in doubt, leave it out. Your dog’s safety is worth it.

FAQs Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms?