Wild mushrooms can poison your dog—here’s how to train Rover to avoid them

Dogs are naturally curious and will often eat things in the field that smell good to them, including mushrooms. While some fungi are non-poisonous, others can lead to illness and even death. Since you can’t be sure which of these unauthorized treats your dog finds, consider all wild mushrooms to be poisonous. With proper training, supervision and the use of treats or a muzzle, you can significantly reduce the risks even more.

TRAINING

Early basic obedience training should include teaching your puppy the commands to “leave it,” “drop it” and “give.” When on a leash, dogs showing an interest in a mushroom should be told to leave it, and guided away. Repetition is key, and dogs learn quickest with clear, immediate feedback. When dogs are off leash, meanwhile, reward them enthusiastically when they are called to return. Practice until they become reliable.

If you see your dog eating a mushroom, call it back and instruct it to drop it or give it to you. Avoid physical deterrents, which can undermine training. Again, reward compliance immediately with treats or verbal praise. Like any distraction, having your dog ignore a mushroom patch is a learned behaviour. Additional training can include placing a non-toxic mushroom on the ground and rewarding your dog for noticing it, but leaving it alone.

PREVENTION

The most effective way to stop a dog from eating mushrooms is to avoid them in the first place. Keep a watchful eye, especially when mushrooms proliferate after a rainfall. In high-risk areas, or if your dog persists in finding fungi, consider using a muzzle. Should your dog eat a mushroom and show signs of poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately.