They spring up in forests, farmers’ markets, and five-star kitchens. Mushrooms, enigmatic, earthy, and nutrient-packed, have been revered for centuries. But should your dog be eating them too?
With over 14,000 known species worldwide, only a fraction are edible. Some are culinary delicacies, others are lethal. And when it comes to our dogs, the line between healthful and harmful must be drawn with even greater care.
The Nutritional Appeal of Mushrooms
Some cultivated varieties offer remarkable functional benefits that go beyond basic nutrition. These fungi are rich in compounds that support a dog's digestive health, immune system, and even cognitive function. Their naturally low fat and low-calorie content also makes them a smart addition to a weight-conscious or anti-inflammatory diet for dogs.
Certain varieties offer remarkable benefits:
Fiber for digestive support
Antioxidants that help reduce inflammation
B vitamins to support energy metabolism
Beta-glucans to enhance immune function
In specific varieties like Lion’s Mane: compounds that may aid cognitive health and nerve regeneration
These nutrients are particularly valuable for senior dogs, dogs recovering from illness, or those on homemade or fresh food diets that benefit from careful nutritional balancing.
But not all fungi are created equal, and neither are all dogs. Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies or sensitivities, so any new ingredients should always be introduced slowly and in small amounts.
Mushrooms to Avoid (Always)
Let’s be clear: Never feed your dog wild mushrooms. Even experienced foragers can misidentify fungi species, some of which look nearly identical to edible varieties but contain deadly toxins. In dogs, even small amounts of certain wild varieties can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, liver failure, seizures or even death. The risk is simply not worth it.
Avoid entirely:
Wild-picked varieties, regardless of how familiar they seem
Unknown species or one you cannot 100% identify and trace
Cooked mushrooms with onions, or salt, that can be harmful to dogs
Mushrooms That Are Safe for Dogs (When Prepared Correctly)
We explore this topic in detail in The LOONAWELL Cookbook, where each featured mushroom is backed by nutritional breakdowns. But for those just beginning to explore safe mushrooms for dogs, here’s a curated preview of some that can be safely incorporated into your dog’s diet, when cooked plainly and served in moderation, or used in pet-specific supplement form.
Not all mushrooms are equally digestible. Dogs have shorter digestive tracts and a more protein-oriented metabolism, meaning that some plant-based ingredients, especially when raw, can be difficult for them to break down efficiently. Cooking not only improves digestibility, it also helps retain certain nutrients and minimises the risk of gastrointestinal upset.
Raw mushrooms even when safe for humans, may cause stomach discomfort, including bloating, gas , or loose stools. And while mushrooms themselves may be safe, what they're cooked with often isn't. Seasonings like salt, onions, too much butter or certain oils, can be harmful or toxic to dogs and therefore better when avoided.
Functional varieties such as Lion’s Mane and Chaga, are best introduced in dried, powdered, or supplement form, where their nutrients are more concentrated and bioavailable. These forms also allow for more accurate dosing and easier integration into fresh food or BARF diets.
Curious to Learn More? The LOONAWELL Cookbook Has You Covered
At LOONAWELL, we believe that nourishment should never be an afterthought, for dogs or their humans. Food is connection, care and intention. That’s why The LOONAWELL Cookbook goes beyond recipes: it offers a science-informed, ingredient conscious guide to sharing mealtimes with your dog, confidently and safely.
Inside you'll find:
Detailed mushroom profiles, from Lion's Mane to Chaga to Porcini
Nutritional breakdowns to help you understand water content, fiber, protein, and functional compounds
Portion guidance tailored for dogs, taking into account size, age and activity levels.
Easy-to-make, chef-curated recipes that feature mushrooms safely
Science-backed tips for combining edible varieties of fungi with proteins like turkey, venison, or fish
Whether you’re cooking up an earthy risotto or experimenting with functional supplements, our cookbook helps you make thoughtful, nutritious decisions you and your dog can share.
📘 PurchaseThe LOONAWELL Cookbook Online
Discover over 60 recipes, over 250 ingredients you can and can’t share with your dogs, and health-forward tips for the modern dog lover.
The LOONAWELL Cookbook 1st Edition
CHF. 112.00
This is not just a cookbook. It’s a scientific declaration of love for dogs. Created by the team behind LOONAWELL, this first-of-its-kind cookbook invites you to nourish your dog with the same thoughtfulness, quality, and joy you bring to your… Read More
