Mushrooms are a common ingredient in many recipes, adding a rich, earthy flavor that many people enjoy. They may seem harmless and healthy… but are they a good idea for your canine friend? Can dogs eat mushrooms, or are they toxic to them?
Can dogs eat mushrooms?
The world of mushrooms is very complex, and while some mushrooms are fine for dogs to eat, many others are not! Uncooked and unseasoned store-bought mushrooms are safe for dogs to eat, but most dogs will not enjoy eating them.
However, many wild mushrooms are toxic to dogs, and your dog will not necessarily know which ones they are. Some toxic mushrooms have a fishy aroma, which can be very appealing to dogs.
We’d suggest that it would be best to avoid feeding mushrooms to your dog altogether, otherwise, he may start seeking out potentially-toxic wild mushrooms on your woodland walks.
What are the signs of toxicity?
The symptoms of mushroom toxicity will vary widely according to what type of wild mushrooms the dog has eaten. Most mushrooms cause severe neurological and gastrointestinal issues, with clinical signs such as:
- Vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain
- Excessive salivation
- Weakness and lethargy
- Seizures
- Wobbling or staggering gait
- Jaundice and liver failure
- Coma, leading to death
What to do if my dog ate mushrooms?
If your dog ate some store-bought button or portobello mushrooms, there is no need to panic. The reason we normally avoid feeding these types of mushrooms to dogs is that we commonly cook them in rich, heavily seasoned sauces that are not healthy for dogs to eat.
However, if you’re out walking or your dog finds a mushroom in your yard, you need to be much more cautious. If you see your dog eating a wild mushroom, it is vital to seek veterinary advice immediately. Take a piece of the mushroom along to the clinic with you, as this may help the veterinary team with their treatment plan.
Unfortunately, it is not always easy to spot when your dog has eaten a wild mushroom, as they may do it without you noticing. So if your dog starts to display any signs of mushroom toxicity, contact your veterinary clinic straight away.
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