Humans enjoy mushrooms in various dishes, including soups, curries, meat, etc. Additionally, mushrooms can be used in vegetarian dishes as a meat substitute.
The popularity of mushrooms has grown over the past few years, and while cooking a dish containing mushrooms, a question might pop into your mind, can my dog eat mushrooms too?
Mushrooms purchased from a shop and cooked in a small amount of olive oil are good for consumption by your dog. However, the portion size should not be in excess.
Mushrooms served to the dog should not contain additional ingredients such as salt, onions, and garlic, as these are unsafe for their consumption.
Now the question is Can Dogs Eat Mushroom?yes dogs eat mushroom in various form.
It is better to cook mushrooms separately for your dog rather than give them from your plate..
Mushroom varieties safe for dog consumption
White Button: These are baby portobello mushrooms.
Mushroom Cremini: It is the adolescent form of the portobello mushroom.
Portobello: Mushrooms like portobello are adults of Cremini mushrooms. They lose water over time, making them the most flavourful.
Oyster Mushrooms: Contrary to some beliefs, they’re not toxic to dogs. It’s best to give your dog store-bought oyster mushrooms.
Porcini: This mushroom grows fast. Also, it can be expensive.
Shiitake: The Shiitake mushroom is also called the winter mushroom or the flower mushroom.
Maitake: An edible mushroom that is mild in flavour and used medicinally. Also known as “Hen of the Woods.”
Reishi: A medicinal mushroom, reishi reduces inflammation and allergies.
Both dogs and humans benefit significantly from these mushrooms. Dogs can eat both dried and fresh versions of them without any risks.
Can Dogs Eat Mushroom ? Mushroom varieties unsafe for dog consumption
The following species are poisonous:
- Death cap (Amanita phalloides)
- ‘Galerina’ (Gaerina marginata)
- Gemmed Amanita (Amanita gemmata)
- Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria)
- False morel (Gyromitra species)
- Clitocybe dealbata
- Innocybe
There is a possibility that dogs will exhibit symptoms of toxicity and poisoning within 15 minutes after consuming any of these mushrooms. However, at times it might also take a few hours before they start displaying signs of illness.
If your pet consumes one, consult your veterinarian or poison control centre immediately.
Here’s how to feed mushrooms to your dog
The best way to give this nutritious treat to your dog is to buy organic mushrooms from a store and serve them fresh.
It is okay to serve a small piece of mushroom to your dog. dogs eat mushrooms but you should be aware that not all dogs will enjoy the taste of mushrooms, so you shouldn’t be surprised if they reject it!
Mushrooms cooked for human consumption can be given to your pet, provided they don’t contain any fats, butter, salts, seasonings, or sauces, as these might upset your dog’s stomach.
It is also okay to feed dogs canned mushrooms if they contain no additional ingredients except water. Although certain nutrients are lost during canning, your dog has some nutritional benefits.
Mushrooms that have been dried are also acceptable, as long as there are no added salts or seasonings. The nutrients are still present, but the hydration properties have been lost.
The mushroom broth is a great recipe that is usually loved by a majority of dogs.
Warning:
Dogs should never be fed wild mushrooms.
Contact your veterinarian if your dog eats wild mushrooms and shows any signs of poisoning or distress.
Can Dogs Eat Mushrooms? Health benefits of mushrooms.
Mushrooms are full of protein, fibre, and antioxidants. Let’s look at their benefits.
Vitamin A: Your dog needs fat-soluble Vitamin A for sharp eyesight, healthy bones, and immunity.
Vitamin B: It is essential for heart health and energy metabolism. It regulates enzyme function and hormone production and is also beneficial for nerve function.
Vitamin C: is an antioxidant that destroys free radicals that damage cells. Besides reducing inflammation, it also fights cancer and slows cognitive ageing.
Potassium: Having enough potassium in your dog’s diet is crucial to kidney health. It also supports heart function, digestion, and muscle function.
Riboflavin: The co-enzyme riboflavin plays an influential role in fat, protein, and carb metabolism. This is an essential nutrient for dogs.
Niacin: The B vitamin Niacin plays an active role in the function of the nervous system and is essential for healthy skin.
Pantothenic Acid: A co-enzyme that helps the cell produce energy and metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Ergothioneine: is an excellent antioxidant that helps fight heart disease, reduces inflammation, and prevents the onset of chronic diseases.
Glutathione: plays a crucial role in maintaining the immune system and also helps in repairing and building tissues.
Mushrooms from the wild or the store?
Despite their toxicity, wild mushrooms can be very tempting for dogs. However, you cannot feed them to your dog. Feeding dogs wild mushrooms is a big risk and can have fatal results.
Since mushrooms absorb toxins from their surroundings, mushrooms purchased from a non-organic supplier may harm your dog’s digestive system.
If you want to give your dog mushrooms, purchasing organic mushrooms from a grocery store is strongly advised.
Mushroom poisoning in dogs?
Dogs will exhibit different symptoms depending on which mushroom they consume.
Mushroom poisoning in dogs can be divided into four categories:
Hepatotoxicity
Consumption of mushrooms such as Death Cap or Death Angel can lead to hepatotoxicity.
This can cause issues related to the stomach and liver, and the symptoms might take up to 12 hours to appear. The dog can suffer from severe gastrointestinal upset, leading to liver failure within a few days.
Neurological Issues
The ingestion of fibre cap or ivory funnel mushrooms can cause neurological symptoms within 30 to 90 minutes and, if left untreated, can result in death.
This disorder’s symptoms include weakness, agitation, Diarrhea, ataxia, disorientation, tremors, and seizures.
Although rare, it is also possible for dogs to suffer from renal failure.
Gastrointestinal Issues
Consumption of fairy or fly agaric mushrooms can cause severe gastrointestinal upset within 15-30 minutes.
The problem symptoms are Diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive drooling.
Nephrotoxicity
A sporadic form of poisoning, nephrotoxicity shares similar symptoms with hepatotoxicity.
Conclusion
Store-bought organic mushrooms can be safely given to your dog.
However, when out with your dog, if they eat wild mushrooms, assume it to be poisonous. In such a scenario, immediately make an appointment with your vet so your dog can receive emergency care.
Your dog might require IV fluids, liver-protecting medication, and anti-nausea medications as part of early supportive care.
A poison control centre may also help you if you don’t know what to do.
Having pet health insurance for your dog is a good idea.
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