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My father and our veterinary consultant, Dr. Littlejohn, recently brought to my attention that people often ask about things dogs can and can’t eat.
Among these questions is, can dogs eat truffles? What about truffle oil?
And while the answer may seem simple at first, there are many factors to consider before letting your dog eat this.
In short, can dogs eat truffles?
Yes, dogs can eat truffles and truffle oil in moderation! Truffles are full of protein, vitamins, and minerals that can be good for your dog’s coat and nails. Truffles also have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help with joint pain and are a natural source of antioxidants.
In this article, you’ll discover:
- Why dogs can eat truffles and which types
- Health benefits & dangers of dogs eating truffles
- What if dogs eat other mushrooms
- And other frequently asked questions
Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
What Is Truffle?
To determine if dogs can eat truffle, we first need to define what it is and what its made of.
Truffles are a fungus that grows underground, typically near the roots of trees. They have a unique, earthy flavor often used in high-end cuisine.
There are two main types of truffles: black and white. Black truffles are more common and have a more robust flavor, while white truffles are less common and have a more delicate flavor.
They have a pungent smell that is often compared to that of ripe cheese.
Nutrition Facts
One serving of 0.5 g (1/10 tsp) of a black truffle that’s been preserved in water and salt contains:
- Calories: 10
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
The specific nutrients in truffles are determined by the type you consume. However, they’re all rich sources of amino acids and minerals, including:
- Copper
- Selenium
- Phosphorus
- Manganese
- Zinc
- Vitamins A, B, C, D, and K
What Is Truffle Oil?
Truffle oil is a type of cooking oil that is infused with truffle flavor. It is made by infusing olive oil or other types of oil with black or white truffles.
Truffle oil is often used to add flavor to dishes but can also be used as a finishing oil.
Can Dogs Eat Truffles?
While it’s unlikely that dog owners will spend hundreds of dollars on truffles for dog treats, a dog could eat some they find out in the forest.
Regardless of how they are eating truffles, is this safe for them?
There are a few things to think about before feeding your dog truffles.
The first is the type of truffle.
There are two main types of truffles- black and white.
Black truffles are the more common type and are safe for dogs to eat in small amounts.
On the other hand, white truffles are not as well tolerated by dogs and can cause stomach upset.
Organic truffles are also the safest option for dogs as they are less likely to contain chemicals or other toxins.
Eating truffles will generally be safe if dogs find some in the forest. However, some mushrooms that are toxic for dogs do look like truffles.
If you’re unsure if the truffle your dog has found is safe, it’s best to err on caution and not let them eat it.
The second thing to consider is how the truffle is prepared.
If the truffle has been preserved in water and salt, it is safe for dogs to eat.
However, suppose the truffle has been prepared with other ingredients, such as garlic or onion. In that case, it can be toxic for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Truffle Oil?
Natural truffle oils derived from organic truffles are safe for dogs.
Natural truffle oil is made from the juice of the truffle and does not contain any chemicals or additives.
However, many commercially-available truffle oils are made with synthetic ingredients and can harm dogs.
Suppose you’re unsure whether or not a particular truffle oil is safe for your dog. In that case, it’s best to err on the side of caution and avoid feeding it to them altogether.
Lastly, too much truffle oil can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Therefore, it’s important to only use a small amount if you decide to feed it to your dog.
What About Commercial Truffle Oils?
As I briefly mentioned, many commercial truffle oils are made with synthetic ingredients and added ingredients not suitable for dogs.
So if you want to give your dog truffle oil, make sure it’s the natural kind made only from truffles and not synthetic.
Health Benefits Of Truffle For Dogs
There are some potential health benefits of dogs eating truffles.
Truffles are a rich source of vitamins and minerals, including copper, selenium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, and vitamins A, B, C, D, and K.
They also contain amino acids that can be beneficial for dogs.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and help support several bodily functions, including muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune system function.
Truffles also contain antioxidants that can help to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
Dangers Of Dogs Eating Truffle
When it comes to truffles, the major dangers come from overeating, eating the wrong kind of mushroom, and choking.
Truffles are small and hard, making them a choking hazard for dogs.
On the other hand, overeating truffles can lead to gastrointestinal upset in dogs, including vomiting and diarrhea.
In addition, if a dog eats too much truffle oil, they could end up with skin irritations. The truffle oil can also cause dogs to have upset stomachs.
Lastly, and probably the most significant danger comes from your dog eating the wrong mushroom.
This can be dangerous if they are out in the forest and find what looks like a truffle and eats it.
Some mushrooms are poisonous to dogs and can look the same as truffles.
What If Dogs Eat Other Mushrooms?
Most dog owners keep their furry friends away from mushrooms due to the risk of them eating toxic mushrooms.
Mushroom poisoning in dogs is not common, but it can be deadly.
There are many different types of mushrooms. Some are safe for dogs while others are not.
It’s not surprising that some dogs eat mushrooms, given their natural curiosity and need to lick and taste almost everything.
Now, unless you are a mushroom expert, it can be pretty hard to determine which mushrooms are safe for your dog and which ones are not.
The best thing to do is keep your dog away from all mushrooms. If they do happen to get into some, look out for symptoms of mushroom poisoning.
Signs might include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Seizures
- Abdominal pain
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Difficulty moving
- Jaundice
- Coma
Contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately if you think your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom.
Not treating mushroom intoxication can be fatal.
Important note: Some toxic mushrooms can look like truffles.
Other Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dogs Eat Truffle Crisps?
While truffle crisps are not likely to harm your dog, they are not particularly good for them.
Truffle crisps are high in fat and salt, which can harm dogs if eaten in large quantities.
So dogs shouldn’t eat truffle crisps due to all the added ingredients.
Can Dogs Eat Truffle Chips?
Truffle chips are not harmful to your dog but aren’t particularly beneficial.
Truffle chips are fatty and salty, potentially dangerous to dogs if eaten in large amounts.
Because of all the additions, it’s best not to feed truffle chips to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Truffle Cheese?
In general, yes, dogs can eat truffle cheese in moderation.
However, it’s best to avoid giving them any varieties of blue cheese, garlic and onion cheese, or brie and feta cheese.
These cheeses are too high in fat and can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs. In addition, garlic and onion cheese are toxic to dogs and can cause aniemia.
Can puppies eat truffle cheese?
It is best to avoid giving puppies any type of cheese, including truffle cheese.
Puppies are still developing, and their digestive systems are not yet fully mature. This can make them more susceptible to gastrointestinal upset and other issues.
Can elderly dogs eat truffle cheese?
As dog’s age, their digestive systems can become more sensitive. Otherwise, elderly dogs can have some truffle cheese every so often.
Can pregnant dogs eat truffle cheese?
Pregnant dogs can have some truffle cheese, but avoiding giving them too much is best.
Truffle cheese has lots of sodium, and too much can cause problems.
Can I Feed My Dog Truffle?
You can feed your dog organic truffles in moderation!
Many health benefits come with feeding your dog truffle.
Truffle is full of antioxidants, which can help to boost your dog’s immune system.
Truffle also contains fatty acids, which are great for your dog’s skin and coat.
Not to mention, a truffle is a natural source of probiotics, which can help with your dog’s digestion.
A few pieces of truffle a week is okay for dogs to eat!
Can Truffles Be Poisonous?
No, truffles are not poisonous.
In fact, they are actually relatively healthy for dogs to eat in moderation.
Truffles can sometimes be mistaken for other mushrooms poisonous to dogs.
Other posts you might find interesting:
Can Dogs Eat Provolone Cheese? Dangers & Vet Advice