Can dogs eat mushrooms?
Last updated 2026-05-08 · Sourced from ASPCA & Merck Veterinary Manual
The short answer
Sometimes — with caution — dogs should only have small amounts of mushrooms. Store-bought safe; wild = NEVER Edible fungi — vary widely from store-bought to wild.
Why be careful
Plain white button, cremini, portobello mushrooms from the grocery store are non-toxic. Many WILD mushrooms can be lethal — and dogs can't tell the difference.
Symptoms to watch for
Wild mushroom poisoning: vomiting, drooling, weakness, seizures, liver failure.
What every dog owner should know
- NEVER let dogs eat foraged mushrooms
- Cooked plain store-bought mushrooms are safest
- Skip butter/garlic mushroom dishes
What to do if your dog ate mushrooms
- Stay calm and assess how much was eaten and when.
- Call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435 (consultation fee may apply).
- Alternatively, Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661.
- Do not induce vomiting unless explicitly instructed by a vet.
- Have product packaging or the food itself ready to describe to the vet.
Puppy safety
Generally avoid feeding mushrooms to puppies. Their digestive systems are still developing and they're more sensitive to changes in diet, fat, sodium, and lactose than adults. If you've already given some, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy and contact your vet if any appear.
What to do if your dog ate mushrooms
- Note how much was eaten and when. A small amount is rarely an emergency, but a large quantity may need vet attention.
- Watch for symptoms over the next 12–24 hours: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or changes in drinking/urination.
- Provide fresh water and skip the next meal if your pet seems unsettled — let their stomach calm down.
- Call your vet if symptoms appear or persist beyond 24 hours, or if the amount eaten was significant.
Better alternatives
If your dog likes mushrooms, they may also enjoy these safe options: