Mushrooms

Renowned for their flavour and medicinal properties, mushrooms have been long been prized not just for their versatility but also for their exceptional nutritional and therapeutic value. High-fibre,  low lipid, low-fat fungi have consequently been recognised both as a source for developing nutraceuticals[1] and as functional foods for the bioactive compounds that provide health benefits.

For dogs, edible mushrooms can serve as a nutrient-rich addition to a balanced diet, offering unique compounds that support immune function, heart health, blood sugar regulation, and more. They are also a potential source of natural antibiotics.

Incorporated safely and in moderation, mushrooms are a functional food that promotes health and wellbeing, complementing other wholesome dietary ingredients.

Mushrooms have been used medicinally for centuries in Asian countries and more recently their bioactive compounds and nutrients have been the study of numerous scientific studies. Mushrooms contain compounds with antimicrobial, antiviral, antitumour, antiallergic, immune modulating, anti-inflammatory and hypoglycaemic properties, among others.[2]

Main Nutrients

Beta-Glucans

Beta-glucans, a type of soluble fibre found in mushrooms, have attracted attention because of their immune-modulating effects[3]. These compounds enhance the activity of white blood cells, improving the body’s ability to combat infections, reduce inflammation, and regulate immune responses. Beta-glucans also play a critical role in regulating blood sugar levels, making mushrooms potentially beneficial for dogs prone to insulin resistance or diabetes.

Protein and Amino Acids

Mushrooms provide a small but valuable amount of protein and contain all nine essential amino acids. These are crucial for building and repairing muscle tissue, synthesising enzymes, and supporting a range of physiological processes. While not a primary protein source, mushrooms contribute a supplementary amino acid profile to the canine diet.

Antioxidants

Mushrooms are among the richest sources of ergothioneine and glutathione, two antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Ergothioneine, in particular, supports cardiovascular health by improving endothelial function and reducing damage to blood vessels, while glutathione aids in liver detoxification and supports overall cellular health.

Dietary Fibre

Mushrooms are an excellent source of dietary fibre, which supports digestive health by improving bowel regularity and maintaining the gut lining. Fibre also enhances satiety, making mushrooms a beneficial addition to weight management diets. Moreover, the fibre acts as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial gut bacteria and supporting microbiome balance.

Main Vitamins

Vitamin D

Because dogs are unable to produce vitamin D from exposure to the sun as humans do, dietary sources are valuable. Mushrooms are a source of Vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, promoting bone health, while also aiding in muscle function and immune resilience.

B Vitamins

Mushrooms are a rich source of B vitamins, including:

  • Riboflavin (B2): Crucial for energy production and the maintenance of healthy skin and coat.
  • Niacin (B3): Supports heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes proper nervous system function.
  • Pantothenic Acid (B5): Aids in the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters, supporting mental focus and stress regulation.
  • Folate (B9): Essential for cell division, DNA synthesis, and the production of red blood cells.

Minerals and Trace Elements

Potassium

Potassium in mushrooms supports cardiovascular health by regulating blood pressure, reducing the risk of hypertension, and aiding in proper heart function. It also contributes to muscle contractions and nerve signalling, which are critical for active and energetic dogs.

Selenium

Mushrooms are one of the best plant-based sources of selenium, a mineral that reduces oxidative stress and inflammation. Selenium is vital for immune health and thyroid function and also offers protection against chronic diseases.

Iron

Iron in mushrooms supports the production of haemoglobin and red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Adequate iron intake helps prevent anaemia, ensuring energy and vitality in dogs.

Phosphorus

Phosphorus works alongside calcium and vitamin D to maintain strong bones and teeth. It also plays a role in energy metabolism and the proper functioning of cell membranes.

Calcium

While mushrooms are not a primary source of calcium, they provide small amounts that contribute to skeletal integrity and muscle function. Calcium is critical for nerve signalling and maintaining strong bones.

 

Mixed autumn mushrooms

Mixed autumn mushrooms

Benefits – Key Takeaways

Mushrooms, when prepared correctly, are a powerhouse of nutrients that support heart health, immune function, blood sugar regulation, and more. Including them in a balanced canine diet can help your dog thrive, adding variety and function to their meals.

Cardiovascular Health

Mushrooms support cardiovascular health through their potassium content, which regulates blood pressure and supports proper heart function. Antioxidants like ergothioneine help reduce oxidative damage to blood vessels, improving circulation and protecting the heart from disease. Additionally, B vitamins such as niacin promote heart health by reducing inflammation and supporting healthy lipid metabolism.

Diabetes Management

The beta-glucans in mushrooms play a pivotal role in blood sugar regulation by slowing glucose absorption and improving insulin sensitivity. This makes mushrooms particularly beneficial for dogs with insulin resistance or at risk of developing diabetes. Their low glycaemic index and high fibre content further enhance their suitability for blood sugar management.

Immune Support

Beta-glucans, selenium, and ergothioneine work together to enhance immune resilience, helping dogs fight infections and recover from illness. Selenium, in particular, stimulates the production of antioxidant enzymes that protect immune cells from oxidative damage, while beta-glucans regulate immune responses to prevent overactivation.

Gut Health

Mushrooms’ dietary fibre and prebiotic properties support a healthy gut microbiome, which is critical for digestion and nutrient absorption. Fibre also promotes bowel regularity, reduces the risk of constipation, and improves gastrointestinal health in dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Cognitive Function

Mushrooms can support cognitive function in dogs, particularly as they age. The antioxidants ergothioneine and glutathione help reduce oxidative stress in brain cells, which can slow the progression of age-related cognitive decline. Additionally, B vitamins, such as riboflavin and niacin, are essential for maintaining healthy brain function and supporting the nervous system.

Beta-glucans may also play a role in reducing neuroinflammation, which is increasingly recognised as a contributor to conditions like canine cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia in humans). Including mushrooms in a dog’s diet could, therefore, help enhance memory, learning, and overall mental sharpness, particularly in senior dogs.

Antioxidant Protection

The high levels of ergothioneine and glutathione in mushrooms provide potent antioxidant defence, reducing inflammation, protecting cells from damage, and slowing the progression of age-related conditions. This is particularly valuable for senior dogs, supporting longevity and overall health.

Bone and Joint Health

The synergistic effects of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D promote strong bones and healthy joints, reducing the risk of skeletal problems in ageing dogs or those with high activity levels. Mushrooms are particularly helpful when paired with other calcium-rich foods in the diet.

Weight Management

Low in calories and high in fibre, mushrooms are an ideal ingredient for weight control diets. Their ability to promote satiety without adding significant calories makes them a useful tool for preventing obesity in dogs.

Varieties of Mushrooms and Their Differences

When considering mushrooms as part of a canine diet, it’s important to note that this outline provides a general overview of the nutritional benefits of mushrooms. Different varieties of safe, store-bought mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, chestnut, and white button mushrooms, offer unique nutritional profiles and benefits. For example:

  • Oyster mushrooms are rich in protein and antioxidants, making them an excellent option for promoting cellular health.
  • Chestnut mushrooms provide slightly higher levels of potassium and phosphorus, which are beneficial for heart and bone health.
  • White button mushrooms are lower in calories but still rich in B vitamins and selenium, making them a great all-round option.

Some ‘Medicinal’ mushrooms

Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) are high in fibre and contain significant amounts of protein, as well as B vitamins, minerals and metabolites; their compounds are said to have antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, immunomodulatory and anti-cancer activities. Shiitake mushrooms have been used medicinally in humans for diseases such as cancer and heart disease and also conditions including diabetes, hypertension and hepatitis[4] and canine studies have found that these mushrooms our potential supplement to combat diseases such as obesity in ageing dogs[5].

Lion’s Mane Mushrooms (Hericium erinaceus) are renowned for their role in cognitive and neurological health. They contain hericenones and erinacines, compounds that support the production of nerve growth factor (NGF). NGF plays a critical role in the repair and regeneration of nerve cells[6], helping to promote gut and brain health and slow cognitive decline[7]. These mushrooms are also rich in antioxidants and beta-glucans.

Reishi Mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum), sometimes nicknamed the “mushroom of immortality,” are known for their adaptogenic properties, meaning they help the body manage stress and maintain balance. They offer several benefits, including immune system support, helping to reduce inflammation and support heart health. Reishi mushrooms are often used in powdered or supplement form for dogs.

Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes or Coiolus versicolor) are a standout variety of medicinal mushrooms, widely recognised for their potent immune-boosting and anti-cancer properties. These mushrooms are exceptionally high in the beta-glucans that both the immune system and are sometimes prescribed for dogs fighting infections or undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. Additionally, turkey tail mushrooms contain prebiotics that support gut health and promote a healthy microbiome, which plays a role in overall immune regulation.

Beech mushrooms (Hypsizygus) offer a rich array of vitamins, minerals and bioactive compounds that can enhance canine health, from boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation to supporting digestive health and bone strength. Their dietary effects are attributed to active substances such as proteins, amino acids, vitamins and enzymes which give beech mushrooms anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihypertensive and antiallergic properties.

References:

[1] Alves M., Ferreira I. F. R., Dias J., Teixeira V., Martins A., Pintado M. (2012). A review on antimicrobial activity of mushroom (Basidiomycetes) extracts and isolated compound. Planta Med. 78 1707–1718. 10.1055/s-0032-1315370
[2] Lindequist U, Niedermeyer TH, Jülich WD. The pharmacological potential of mushrooms. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2005 Sep;2(3):285-99. doi: 10.1093/ecam/neh107. PMID: 16136207; PMCID: PMC1193547.
[3] Fengmei Zhu, Bin Du, Zhaoxiang Bian, Baojun Xu, Beta-glucans from edible and medicinal mushrooms: Characteristics, physicochemical and biological activities, Journal of Food Composition and Analysis, Volume 41, 2015, Pages 165-173, ISSN 0889-1575, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jfca.2015.01.019.
[4] Bisen P.S., Baghel, R.K.,  Sanodiya B.S., Thakur G.S., Prasad G.B.K.S.,  Lentinus edodes: A Macrofungus with Pharmacological Activities, Current Medicinal Chemistry; Volume 17, Issue 22, Year 2010, .DOI: 10.2174/092986710791698495
[5] Kusaba A, Arai T. Shiitake mushroom powder supplementation increase antioxidative activity in dogs. Front Vet Sci. 2024 Jun 19;11:1355560. doi: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1355560. PMID: 38962708; PMCID: PMC11220243.
[6] Kushairi N, Phan CW, Sabaratnam V, David P, Naidu M. Lion’s Mane Mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Bull.: Fr.) Pers. Suppresses H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage and LPS-Induced Inflammation in HT22 Hippocampal Neurons and BV2 Microglia. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019 Aug 1;8(8):261. doi: 10.3390/antiox8080261. PMID: 31374912; PMCID: PMC6720269.
[7] Cho HW, Choi S, Seo K, Kim KH, Jeon JH, Kim CH, Lim S, Jeong S, Chun JL. Gut microbiota profiling in aged dogs after feeding pet food contained Hericium erinaceus. J Anim Sci Technol. 2022 Sep;64(5):937-949. doi: 10.5187/jast.2022.e66. Epub 2022 Sep 30. PMID: 36287790; PMCID: PMC9574611.

 

Want to know more? These studies may be useful:

  • Elmastas M., Isildaak O., Turkekul I., Temur N. (2007). Determination of antioxidant activity and antioxidant compounds in wild edible mushrooms.  Food Comp. Anal.20 337–345. 10.1016/j.jfca.2006.07.003
  • Bhambri A, Srivastava M, Mahale VG, Mahale S, Karn SK. Mushrooms as Potential Sources of Active Metabolites and Medicines. Front Microbiol. 2022 Apr 26;13:837266. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.837266. PMID: 35558110; PMCID: PMC9090473.

Precautions

While mushrooms offer numerous health benefits, care must be taken to use only safe, edible varieties such as white button, cremini, or portobello mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic and potentially fatal. Always cook mushrooms thoroughly to improve digestibility and eliminate harmful compounds. Introduce them gradually and consult your veterinarian, particularly if your dog has dietary sensitivities or health conditions.

 

Important Considerations:

  • Always consult your veterinarian before making any significant dietary changes, particularly where there are pre-existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.
  • If you are feeding commercial food, check the label for ingredients before giving more. Excessive intake of any foods can have adverse effects.
  • Ensure (where possible) that you use high-quality, organic products specifically formulated for pets (or better still, human grade ingredients) to avoid any potential adverse effects.
  • Introduce new foods gradually to avoid adverse effects such as gastrointestinal upset or diarrhoea.
  • I provide nutritional information purely as a helpful guide. Nutritional information on ingredients is obtained from the US Department of Agriculture’s FoodData Central site (https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/index.html) and any nutritional information provided in recipes is based on an online calculator: calories and other information will vary based on brands, ingredients and other factors.
  • Check nutrient levels and recommendations for your dog’s weight, age and activity. For example this nutritional guideline produced by FEDIAF.
  • I am not a professional nutritionist. I am sharing recipes that I have created and tested in my kitchen and that have been tasted and approved by our doggy friends.