Paw parents are always in search of a variety of food which can enhance their fur baby’s taste and also provide them nutritional value. But often we have seen that they fail to do so due to their lack of knowledge. Choosing the right food for your dog is not easy as not everything is good for them. Through this blog, “Can dogs eat truffle?” we are here to introduce you to a tasty and healthy food item for your dog.
If you are looking forward to adding taste to your dog’s regular boring diet then truffle can be that addition. To know about it let’s dive in more depth.
Can Dogs Eat Truffle?
Yes, dog can eat truffles. But do you know what truffle is? Truffles are edible fungus grown under trees and are rare to cultivate and find. Popular in French and Italian cuisines truffles are full of aroma and flavours. Truffles have a variety of species but the ones that are loved by all are black and white truffles.
Black truffles are usually found in Europe, France, Italy and Spain. They have dark brown skin and grey and black flesh. These black truffles have a strong and earthy smell which makes them the favourite ingredient in many dishes.
White truffles are mostly found in Italy and have either pale yellow or brown skin with white creamy flesh. They mainly possess a delicate and floral flavour and are enjoyed in raw form.
Truffles being rare to find require trained dogs to sniff[1] and locate them.
Benefits of Truffles for Dogs
Truffle serves several health benefits to your canine friends. Here are the benefits of truffles for dogs:
Protein
Truffle contains about 20% to 30% of protein. Due to being rich in protein, truffle helps in building a dog’s muscles, tissues and organs. It also helps in maintaining the dog’s skin, coat, nails and immune system.
As mentioned in petmd, "Proteins are important in the formation and maintenance of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Protein in dog food also assists with muscle, skin, hair, nail, and blood formation."
Antioxidants
Truffle has high antioxidants which protects your dog’s cell from oxidative damage as well as inflammation. The antioxidants included in truffle are polyphenols, flavonoids, glutathione and carotenoids.
Minerals
Truffle is full of minerals like manganese, copper, phosphorus, selenium and zinc. These minerals help in the smooth functioning of your dog’s nervous and immune system. Phosphorus helps maintain your dog’s dental health whereas manganese helps in metabolism and enzyme activity.
Copper present in truffles helps maintain the dog’s red blood cells and connective tissues. Selenium prevents the thyroid and provides antioxidant defence in your dog’s body.
Risks of Truffles for Dogs
Though truffle has a variety of health benefits it also has risks associated with it. Risks of truffle for dogs are:
Allergic reactions
Truffles may not suit every dog some of them might have allergic reactions to them. If your dog has an allergy to truffles then it can lead to swelling, hives, itching, vomiting and even breathing difficulty in dogs.
If your dog shows any of the above-mentioned symptoms after consuming truffle then avoid feeding it further and consult a vet.
Digestive issues
Truffle being rich in calories and fat can lead to several digestive issues in dogs. Feeding your dog way too much truffle considering their health benefits can turn problematic.
Excessive consumption of truffles can lead to diarrhoea, gas, nausea and bloating in dogs. To avoid digestive issues in dogs feed the truffle in moderate quantity.
Poisoning
Truffles are not toxic or poisonous to dogs, however, there are several false truffles like Chinese truffles and Oregon truffles which are toxic. There are many looks like a variety of truffles available commercially which is why you need to be careful.
The symptoms of this kind of truffle poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea and even liver damage. To avoid this problem always buy truffles from reputable and reliable sources.
How Much Truffles Can You Give to Your Dog?
Dog’s nutritional needs differ as they differ in size, weight and breed. Thus the amount of truffle to be given to your dog is based on those factors only. Truffles are good for dog’s health and provide certain benefits, yet they should be given in moderation.
Always while feeding your dog anything remember the less is more rule. You can give your dog truffles once or twice a week. And if you are considering feeding your dog truffles every day then a small pea size is enough for them.
Alternatives of Truffle
Truffles being rare are highly expensive, so in this case, you can try feeding your dog the following alternatives:
Mushrooms
Mushrooms can be an alternative to truffle as they are edible as well as nutritional. They are rich in fibre, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. While feeding your dog always feed in cooked form as the raw one contains harmful toxins and bacteria.
Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants and protect your dog’s cells from oxidative damage. Some berries like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries and cranberries are good for dogs. These berries are full of vitamins, minerals and fibre.
Cheese
Cheese is another alternative that you can consider feeding your dog. It is a good source of calcium, protein and phosphorus. Due to its savoury flavour, it provides your dog with great taste. Avoid feeding your dog cheese in excessive quantities as it is rich in fat and calories too.
FAQs
Can dogs eat truffle?
Yes, dogs can eat truffle. Truffle are edible fungus rich in minerals, protein and antioxidants. They serve a lot of health benefits but still, they can cause digestive issues, allergic reactions and poisoning in a few dogs. Not all dogs can eat truffles some of them might have a food intolerance.
How can truffles benefit my dog’s health?
Truffle serves several health benefits for the dog they are rich in protein, antioxidants and minerals. It helps maintain the muscles and improves organ and tissue health. It also protects dog’s cells from oxidative cells and inflammation. It helps in the smooth functioning of a dog’s immune system and bones.
Are there any risks or side effects of feeding truffles to my dog?
Even though the truffles are safe for dogs some of them might be allergic to them or may be suffering from food intolerance. In such cases, truffles might pose a risk and lead to itching, swelling, vomiting, breathing difficulty, hives, gas or bloating. While burying always check for the expiry date as the expired truffles are toxic too.
Can dogs eat truffles with other foods or ingredients?
Yes, dogs can eat truffles with other foods or ingredients also. You can eat truffles with chicken, cooked rice, truffle bacon, truffle peanut balls, truffle biscuits or even make homemade truffle treats. You can even mix the truffle in your dog’s regular food too.
Can I train my dog to find truffles for me?
Yes, you can train your dog to find truffles for you but for that, you need to have access to a truffle-rich area. After having the permit you can train your dog to find the truffle. To train your dog you can use the truffle scent, truffle oil or even the real truffle.
Conclusion
We hope that through our blog, “Can dogs eat truffle?” we have successfully provided you with every possible information. Truffle can be a great taste addition to your dog’s diet and provide them with immense joy and good health.
Though truffle is good for the dog, make sure you are feeding them the authentic one. If you still have any doubt regarding the quantity of truffle to be fed to your fur baby then consult a vet to seek the advice.
If your dog shows an allergic reaction to truffles then stop feeding it immediately and provide him the required medical care.
Reference:
- Horton, C. (2023, November 2). This is how dogs learn to hunt for truffles. Travel.
