If you know us, you know we’ve been obsessed with mushrooms since the beginning! And in the last couple of years the practice of feeding mushroom extracts to dogs has gained popularity in the realm of holistic pet care. They seem to be everywhere, and for good reason!

So what are some of the health benefits and how do you choose one product over another?

Wood vs. grain

One of the most important questions to ask if how the mushrooms were grown and harvested. If you can’t find this information, ask the manufacturer because it matters.

In contrast to mushrooms cultivated on wood substrates, mushrooms grown on grain substrates are usually bad value because of the disproportionate presence of grain in the final product. While the grain is used as a substrate to cultivate the mushrooms, some manufacturers may include excessive amounts of grain in the extraction process. This can result in mushroom extracts that contain a higher proportion of grain fillers, offering less concentrated and potentially diluted benefits.

Which ones to choose

Two of our favourites are Chaga and Turkey Tail. Their health benefits have mostly been studied and documented in humans, but those benefits are significant and we recommend using them daily for older dogs or dogs with indicated health conditions. For young, healthy dogs, feed them intermittently to prevent the body building up a tolerance.

Before we explore the positive health impacts, we can’t stress enough that superfoods like mushrooms work best inside a body that’s not only a healthy weight but also nourished with a natural, fresh food diet and not bearing a huge toxic load. 

Immune system support

One of the key benefits of feeding mushroom extracts to dogs is their ability to boost the immune system. Turkey tail mushrooms (Trametes versicolor) and chaga mushrooms (Inonotus obliquus) contain bioactive compounds that have been found to enhance immune function. These mushrooms are rich in polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which can stimulate the production of immune cells, improve their activity, and strengthen the overall immune response. We’ve even seen stubborn papilomas fall off within mere days of administering a mushroom complex!

Anti-inflammatory effects

Chronic inflammation can have detrimental effects on a dog's health, leading to various conditions such as arthritis, allergies, and digestive disorders. Mushroom extracts, including turkey tail and chaga, possess natural anti-inflammatory properties. The bioactive compounds found in these mushrooms, such as triterpenoids and polysaccharides, help regulate the inflammatory response in the body, potentially helping alleviate discomfort.

Antioxidant protection

The antioxidant capabilities of mushroom extracts can contribute significantly to your dog's health. Turkey tail and chaga mushrooms are packed with potent antioxidants, including phenols and flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress caused by free radicals. By neutralizing these harmful molecules, mushroom extracts can protect cells from damage, support healthy ageing, and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases in dogs.

Digestive health

Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for a dog's overall well-being. Mushroom extracts have been recognized for their positive impact on gut health. Turkey tail mushrooms, in particular, contain prebiotic properties that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, but every dog parent needs to nurture their pup’s gut microbiome for this is the command centre for wellness!

Cancer support

Cancer is a heartbreaking reality for too many pet owners, but mushroom extracts may offer some hope in supporting canine cancer care. Both turkey tail and chaga mushrooms have been studied for their potential anticancer properties. They contain compounds that exhibit anti-tumor activity and may help inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells. While they’re not a replacement for traditional veterinary treatment, incorporating Turkey Tail into a dog's diet, even after a diagnosis may provide an additional layer of support by preventing or slowing the disease.

At Wholesome Canine we carry a range of mushrooms and blends that contain them. You can view the complete collection here.

And as always, we’re here for you! Reach out if you have questions.