Shiitake mushrooms are one of the most popular varieties in the world thanks to their rich umami flavour and impressive nutritional value. But is it safe to share them with our canine friends? And are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs? In today’s article, we’re looking at the potential benefits of adding this ingredient to your pup’s diet. We’ve also got some top tips on how to feed your pooch shiitake safely, from preparation to quantity.
Are shiitake mushrooms safe for dogs?
Before we discuss whether there are any health benefits of shiitake mushroom for dogs, let’s talk about safety. There are lots of different species of fungus out there, some of which are harmless and others that are toxic. The good news is that shiitake falls into the first group. Like many varieties you can buy at the supermarket, shiitake mushrooms are generally safe for dogs to eat.(1) However, there is a caveat to this: it all depends on how you prepare them.
Can dogs eat raw shiitake mushrooms? Most experts advise against it. Raw mushrooms are harder for your pooch to digest, and may cause them to experience some tummy troubles. Cooking fungi helps to break down the tough chitin in their cell walls, making them more digestible for your mutt. It could also lessen the risk of irritation. As such, we recommend always cooking shiitake mushrooms before offering them to your pup.
Can dogs have shiitake mushrooms in the same dishes that we humans enjoy them in? No. The recipes we use mushrooms in are normally full of ingredients that our pups shouldn’t eat. For example, butter may give pooches an upset stomach and raise the risk of conditions such as obesity and pancreatitis. Meanwhile, both onions and garlic are toxic to canines because they contain compounds like N-propyl disulphide, which can damage their red blood cells.
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs in large quantities? That’s another no. As with all human foods and treats you give your pet, moderation is key. They’re not a replacement for your mutt’s meals, and eating too many of them raises the risk of obesity.
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs in small quantities? Yes, they could be! Here’s how.
The benefits of shiitake mushrooms for dogs
Not only can dogs eat shiitake mushrooms, but adding the ingredient to their diet might also offer some health benefits. Why are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs? It’s thanks to the impressive array of nutrients they contain. Time to get into the details.
Rich in vitamins and minerals
Feeding your pooch shiitake mushrooms can help to increase their intake of several key vitamins and minerals.(2) For instance, the ingredient is high in B vitamins, which support your pet’s energy production, nerve function, and cognitive health. Shiitake mushrooms are also a good source of bone-friendly vitamin D. This is especially advantageous because, unlike us, dogs can’t synthesise vitamin D from sunlight effectively.
Turning to minerals, shiitake mushrooms provide your pup with copper, zinc, selenium, potassium, and manganese. These all have crucial roles to play in your pet’s wellbeing. As an example, zinc and selenium contribute to the health of your pup’s skin, coat, and immune system. Meanwhile, copper is vital for the production of red blood cells. The fungus is additionally rich in protein, so could aid with muscle growth and repair. Perfect for animals who enjoy long walks and games of fetch!
In what other ways are the nutrients in shiitake mushrooms good for dogs? Well, selenium, the amino acid ergothioneine, and several phenolic compounds in the ingredient act as antioxidants. These help to protect your pooch’s cells from the damage caused by free radicals.(3) Studies show that a diet rich in antioxidants could benefit your pup’s cognitive health and immune system.(4)
Bursting with beta-glucans
Many of the potential wellness benefits of shiitake mushrooms for dogs are thanks to polysaccharides called beta-glucans. A type of soluble fibre, research shows beta-glucans could support immunity by stimulating certain kinds of immune cells.(5) They may also aid in lowering inflammation. That’s advantageous because chronic inflammation can contribute to numerous harmful conditions, including arthritis, skin diseases, and cardiovascular problems.
This isn’t the only reason the beta-glucans in shiitake might support your pup’s heart health. They – along with another compound in the mushroom called eritadenine – additionally have the potential to reduce cholesterol levels.(6) Beta-glucans can bind with cholesterol-containing bile acids in the gut, while eritadenine inhibits an enzyme involved in producing cholesterol. This could lessen the risk of conditions such as atherosclerosis.
Furthermore, as an adaptogen, the fungus may help to mitigate the negative effects of stress on your pet. This is important because stress can have a harmful influence on everything from your pooch’s immune system to their behaviour. Lentinan, one type of beta-glucan, could even have cancer-fighting and anti-tumour properties.(7) However, further research is necessary to clarify this. All of which means that not only are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs, but they support their wellbeing in more ways than one.
Full of fibre
Beta-glucan isn’t the only form of fibre you’ll find in shiitake. The fungus contains a mix of soluble and insoluble fibre, meaning it could benefit your mutt’s digestive system. For instance, fibre helps keep your pet regular and prevent conditions like constipation and diarrhoea. Certain types of fibre – including beta-glucan – also nourish the good bacteria in your pet’s gut. At the same time, it inhibits the growth of bad bacteria. This is positive for several reasons. A flourishing gut microbiome aids your canine companion’s digestion, cognitive health, immune system, and metabolism.(8)
Fibre may additionally make it easier for your pup to maintain a healthy weight. That’s because it increases feelings of fullness and satiety, meaning it’s less likely your pooch will overeat. Plus, shiitake mushrooms are low in calories and contain very little fat. Including them in your pup’s diet (in moderation) is therefore unlikely to result in weight gain. Obesity can cause all sorts of concerns in our pets, from diabetes to respiratory issues, making this a key advantage. Please note that if your mutt is already overweight, you should take them to a vet. Adding shiitake to their meals alone won’t solve the problem.
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs in all cases? Not necessarily. There are also some safety considerations to be aware of. Here’s what you need to know.
What are the risks of shiitake mushroom for dogs?
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs? Yes, it’s widely agreed that the fungus is safe for canine consumption. However, it’s important to bear the following potential risks in mind when adding them to your pet’s diet.
First, there’s the possibility that your pooch could be allergic to shiitake. Start by giving them a small amount – just one bite – and monitor them to see how they react. If you notice any side effects, take your pup to the vet immediately.
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs who have existing health concerns? It depends on the specifics. If your mutt has a medical condition or takes medication, check with a vet before giving them any functional fungi. This is because the ingredients have the potential to interact with certain types of medicine. As an example, because shiitake can stimulate immune cells, it might not be suitable for animals who are on immunosuppressants or have autoimmune disorders.
As we mentioned above, moderation is key when giving your furry friend shiitake. This is both to avoid excess calories and to prevent any stomach upset. If your pooch is new to mushrooms, start with small quantities. This helps make sure their digestive system can adjust to the novel ingredient.
Finally, you should never give your pet wild mushrooms. Many are deadly to both us and our pets, and the risk simply isn’t worth it. Always feed your pup shop-bought culinary varieties of the same quality that you would use in your own dinner. Alternatively, you could look for shiitake powder that’s specially designed for animals.
How to prepare shiitake mushrooms for your dog
Not only are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs, but it’s also easy to add the ingredient to their diet. Here are some top tips for doing so safely:
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Always use fresh, organic shiitake. Avoid any that have dark spots, a slimy texture, or mould.
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Never feed your pooch mushrooms that are marinated or seasoned in any way.
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Wash shiitake thoroughly before preparing them for your furry friend.
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Don’t give raw shiitake to your pet – steam or sauté them until they’re soft.
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Never use salt, garlic, butter, onions, or other ingredients when cooking mushrooms for your pup.
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Chop the cooked shiitake into small pieces to make the mushroom safer and easier for your mutt to eat.
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Use shiitake as an occasional topping for your pooch’s dinner, not as a complete meal. They don’t provide all the nutrients your pet needs to be happy and healthy.
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Less is more, especially at first – just a few pieces of mushroom mixed into their meals is plenty.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy option, you might prefer a mushroom powder made for animal consumption. All you need to do is mix a quarter of a teaspoon into your pup’s regular wet food. This is a particularly convenient choice if you’re interested in fungi that you can’t get in the supermarket. For example, at Boosie we have organic reishi powder and organic lion’s mane powder that we’ve created especially for pets. As these are quite potent, they’re only suitable for fully grown animals who are not pregnant or lactating.
Are shiitake mushrooms good for dogs?
Adding shiitake to your pup’s diet in moderation is not only safe, but it also offers some potential wellness benefits. The mushroom is rich in several key nutrients that can support gut health, heart health, and the immune system. Just remember to introduce the new ingredient slowly, avoid raw shiitake, and steer clear of seasonings. And for a hassle-free option, you could always opt for a medicinal mushroom powder. That’s sure to get your pet’s tail wagging!
Frequently asked questions about dogs and mushrooms
Can dogs eat other mushrooms apart from shiitake?
Yes, not only can dogs eat shiitake mushrooms, but they can tuck into several other varieties as well. These include many species you’ll find at the supermarket, like porcini, maitake, portobello, chestnut, and button mushrooms. What’s more, adult pups can have some types of functional fungi, such as reishi, lion’s mane, cordyceps, and turkey tail. Each kind of mushroom offers unique wellness benefits, allowing you to pick the one most appropriate for your pooch’s needs. We recommend speaking to a vet before adding medicinal mushrooms to your pet’s diet. This is to ensure they’re suitable for their individual circumstances.
What should I do if my dog ate a wild mushroom?
If your dog eats a wild mushroom, you need to take them to the vet straight away. Many species are toxic to our pets, and cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms if eaten. Some of the common signs of mushroom poisoning in pups include vomiting, abdominal pain, disorientation, lethargy, weakness, drooling, and diarrhoea. In severe cases, it can result in tremors, seizures, organ failure, coma, and even death. This is why experts recommend removing wild mushrooms from your garden and stopping your pooch from foraging on walks.
How often can my dog have shiitake mushrooms?
You can feed your dog shiitake mushrooms a couple of times a week as a treat. A few bite-size pieces at a time is sufficient. They are not a replacement for your pet’s normal meals, as they don’t contain all the nutrients they require. The exact quantity your pooch should have will depend on factors like their size, so ask a vet if you’re unsure. If your mutt hasn’t eaten mushrooms before, start with a small amount and see how they respond. With a shiitake mushroom powder, you’ll need to check the recommended dosage and frequency on the packaging.