No, we’re not talking about the Thanksgiving turkey! We’re referring to turkey tail mushroom supplements!
Turkey tail mushrooms are a type of medicinal mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. More recently, they have gained popularity as a natural cancer treatment and an immune system booster.
There is a growing body of scientific evidence to support the health benefits of turkey tail mushrooms. Studies have shown that they can help fight cancer, improve gut health, and boost the immune system.
So, if you’re looking for a natural way to support your dog’s health, then turkey tail mushroom supplements might be a good option. Here are 4 of the best turkey tail supplements for dogs, based on our research.
Benefits of turkey tail for dogs
Before we dive in, let’s take a look at some of the potential health benefits of turkey tail mushrooms and how they might benefit your dog.
What makes turkey tail mushrooms so powerful are the components known as polysaccharide-P (PSP) and Polysaccharide-K (PSK). (1) They both are beta-D-glucans, which bind to receptors on immune cells and help to modulate the immune response. See:
- Increase immune function when the body is under stress from chronic illness or cancer
- Restore immune function in dogs with auto-immune diseases
- Decrease the inflammatory response in overactive immune systems
Besides modulating immune responses, beta-D-glucans have also been shown to have anti-cancer effects (2). They can help to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. These properties make beta-D-glucans a promising supplement for cancer. To summarize the benefits, turkey tail supplements can help with (3):
- Immune system enhancement
- Enhance cancer therapies
- Protection of cells
- Creating a healthy inflammation response
- Boosting conventional therapies
- Vaccine support
Should you give turkey tail to a healthy dog?
Some people think turkey tail supplements are only beneficial for dogs with cancer or other health conditions. However, that’s not necessarily the case.
Turkey tail mushrooms can help to modulate the immune system and protect cells from damage. For healthy dogs, this can help to reduce the risk of developing certain diseases. It can also help to keep the immune system functioning properly during times of stress, such as during travel or boarding.
In short, there is no harm in giving turkey tail to healthy dogs. And, it may even help to prevent some health problems from developing down the road.
The best turkey tail supplement for dogs
Now that you know a bit about the potential health benefits of turkey tail mushrooms, let’s take a look at some of the best supplements on the market.
1Realmushrooms' Mushroom Supplement
Beta-glucans
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If you prefer capsules over powder, these Realmushrooms Defenders Mushroom Supplement capsules are a great option. Made with 100% real turkey tail mushrooms, chaga, maitake, shiitake, and reishi mushrooms, this supplement also provides a ton of health benefits.
What is so great about this product is that the beta-glucans we mentioned earlier are tested and measured by third-party laboratories, so you know exactly what your dog is getting. This supplement is also vet-approved and made in the USA.
Each bottle contains 90 capsules, which should last your dog about three months if they are taking the recommended dosage.
What we like the most: The beta-glucans are tested and measured by third-party laboratories.
Pros
- The beta-glucans are tested
- Made with 100% real mushrooms
- Vet approved
- No grains, no fillers
Cons
- A bit more expensive than some other brands
2Mushroom Matrix Organic Turkey Tail Powder
Beta-glucans
________
This is a pure, organic turkey tail powder that contains no fillers or additives. The product is also more affordable compared to other brands on the market.
Each package comes with 100 grams of powder, which should last your dog about 100 servings. This product is USDA certified and has a ton of positive reviews to back up its effectiveness. Veterinarians also recommend this product as a great way to support your dog’s immune system.
What we like the most: This turkey tail powder is a 100% organic and trusted product that is beloved by vets and customers alike.
Pros
- Priced the best
- USDA certified
- Veterinarian recommended
- Positive customer reviews
Cons
- Not clear on the amount of beta-glucans
3Fera Pet Organic Mushroom Blend
Beta-glucans
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Not only does this product contain turkey tail mushrooms, but it also has 10 other types of mushrooms that offer a variety of health benefits. These benefits include supporting the immune system, improving cardiovascular function, and helping to normalize blood pressure and sugar levels. The mushroom powder is also USDA certified and made in the USA.
What we like the most: This product contains a variety of mushrooms that offer a wide range of health benefits for dogs.
Pros
- Supports the immune system
- Improves cardiovascular function
- Normalizes blood pressure and sugar levels
- USDA certified
Cons
- A bit more expensive compared to other products
4Shroomies Mushroom Complex for Dogs
Beta-glucans
________
We can understand that you may have some reservations about giving your powder or pills. Luckily, there are plenty of other ways to get your dog the benefits of turkey tail mushrooms. One way is through treats! These Shroomies – Organic Mushroom Complex for Dogs treats are a great option.
Made with various mushrooms, including turkey tail, shiitake, lion’s mane, maitake, and reishi mushrooms, these treats provide the same benefits as other supplements on the market. Some of the benefits include cognitive support, immune support, and healthy joints.
What we like the most: These treats are a great way to get your dog the benefits of turkey tail mushrooms without having to give them pills or powder.
Pros
- Comes in a treat form
- Supports cognitive function
- Promotes healthy joints
Cons
- May contain fewer to none beta-glucans
Final thoughts – best turkey tail supplement for dogs
As we’ve seen, turkey tail provides a host of benefits for dogs. If you’re looking for a way to support your dog’s immune system, and overall health, then consider adding a turkey tail supplement to their diet.
While there are many supplements on the market that contain turkey tail mushrooms, we believe the best one is Realmushrooms Defenders Mushroom Supplement. The reason being is that they guarantee more than 20% beta-glucans in each serving, which is important for the supplement to be effective. This product is also made with 100% real mushrooms and is vet-approved.
If you don’t like giving your dog powder or pills, then another great option is Shroomies – Organic Mushroom Complex for Dogs treats. As the name suggests, these come in treat form whilst still packing a powerful punch of mushrooms that offer plenty of benefits.
All by all, any of the products on our list would make a great addition to your dog’s diet and overall health routine. Do some research and decide which product best suits your needs. Your dog will thank you for it!
(Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians or medical professionals. This article is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements.)
