7 Immune-Boosting Medicinal Mushroom Broth Recipes for Dogs

The Immunity All-Star: Reishi & Turkey Tail Broth

When you want to call in the big guns for immune support, this is the recipe you need. Reishi is often called the ‘mushroom of immortality’ for its wide-ranging benefits, including stress reduction and immune modulation. Turkey Tail is one of the most-researched medicinal mushrooms, celebrated for its potent polysaccharides that support the body’s natural defense systems and promote a healthy gut microbiome. Together, they create a powerhouse broth perfect for dogs of all ages.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken feet, necks, or carcasses
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon organic Reishi mushroom powder
• 1 teaspoon organic Turkey Tail mushroom powder
• 2 carrots, roughly chopped
• 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped

Instructions:

1. Place the chicken parts in a large stockpot or slow cooker. Add the water and apple cider vinegar. The vinegar helps pull the beneficial minerals from the bones. Let this sit for about 30 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the top.
4. Cover and let it simmer for at least 12-24 hours. The longer it simmers, the more nutrient-dense it will be.
5. Turn off the heat. For the last 30 minutes of cooking (or after you’ve turned off the heat while it’s still hot), stir in the Reishi and Turkey Tail mushroom powders. This prevents damaging their delicate compounds with prolonged high heat.
6. Let the broth cool completely. Strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove all the bones and vegetables. Never feed cooked bones to your dog!
7. Pour into glass jars for storage. A layer of fat may solidify on top; you can remove it or mix it in for extra energy.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is the ultimate supportive broth for senior dogs, dogs recovering from illness, or as a preventative measure during cold and flu season. It provides a foundational boost to the immune system while also supporting joint and gut health.

The Gut Guardian: Shiitake & Ginger Gut-Soothing Broth

A happy gut means a happy pup! The gut is the cornerstone of the immune system, and this broth is designed to keep it in tip-top shape. Shiitake mushrooms are not only delicious but also contain compounds that support beneficial gut bacteria. We’ve paired them with ginger, a classic remedy for nausea and digestive upset, to create a broth that’s both comforting and functional.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef marrow bones
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 5-6 dried shiitake mushrooms (or 1 cup fresh, sliced)
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions:

1. If using dried shiitake, rehydrate them by soaking in 1 cup of warm water for 30 minutes. Don’t discard the soaking water – it’s full of flavor!
2. Place the beef bones in your stockpot or slow cooker, add the gallon of water, the shiitake soaking water, and the apple cider vinegar.
3. Add the rehydrated (or fresh) shiitake mushrooms and the sliced ginger to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Skim off any scum that forms.
5. Cover and simmer for at least 12 hours for a rich, gelatinous broth.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the dried parsley.
7. Turn off the heat and let it cool. Strain thoroughly to remove all solids.
8. Store in the refrigerator or freezer.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is the go-to recipe for any pup experiencing tummy troubles, from gas to irregularity. It’s also a fantastic maintenance broth to keep their digestive system running smoothly, which in turn supports their overall immunity.

The Energy Booster: Cordyceps & Turmeric Vitality Broth

Have a canine athlete in the house? Or perhaps an older dog who’s lost a bit of their spark? This vitality broth is for them. Cordyceps mushrooms are famous in the athletic world for their ability to support energy, stamina, and oxygen utilization. We’ve combined them with turmeric, a potent anti-inflammatory, to help soothe tired muscles and joints after a long day of play.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs turkey necks or wings
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon organic Cordyceps mushroom powder
• 1 teaspoon organic turmeric powder
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (to aid turmeric absorption)
• A sprig of fresh rosemary

Instructions:

1. Combine turkey parts, water, and apple cider vinegar in a large pot or slow cooker. Let stand for 30 minutes.
2. Add the sprig of rosemary to the pot.
3. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and skim the surface as needed.
4. Cover and let simmer for a minimum of 10-12 hours.
5. In the final 30 minutes, while the broth is still hot, whisk in the Cordyceps powder, turmeric powder, and black pepper until fully dissolved.
6. Allow the broth to cool completely before straining out all solids.
7. Portion into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for easy serving.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is the perfect brew for the dog park champion, the agility star, or the senior dog who needs a little help getting up for their morning walk. It supports physical performance and recovery, helping your dog feel their best and most vibrant self.

The Brainiac’s Brew: Lion’s Mane & Blueberry Cognitive Broth

Just like us, our dogs’ cognitive health is incredibly important, especially as they enter their golden years. Lion’s Mane mushroom is a unique fungus celebrated for its potential to support brain health and nerve function. We’ve paired it with antioxidant-rich blueberries and omega-3-packed fish to create a true ‘brain food’ broth.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 fish heads/frames (from non-oily whitefish like cod or flounder) or 1 lb chicken feet
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon organic Lion’s Mane mushroom powder
• 1/4 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Place the fish parts or chicken feet in your stockpot with water and apple cider vinegar. If using fish, the simmer time will be much shorter.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer. Do not boil rapidly. Skim any foam.
3. For fish broth, simmer for only 1-2 hours. For chicken feet, simmer for 12+ hours. Fish bones are much more delicate and break down quickly.
4. In the last 15 minutes of simmering, add the blueberries and chopped parsley.
5. Turn off the heat and stir in the Lion’s Mane powder.
6. Let the broth cool, then strain it very carefully through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to ensure no small bones remain. This is especially critical for fish broth.
7. Store in the fridge or freezer. The broth may be thinner than one made with mammal bones.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is a must-make broth for any senior dog. It’s a wonderful, proactive way to support their brain as they age, helping to keep them sharp, engaged, and happy. It’s also great for any dog’s overall wellness, as antioxidants and omega-3s are beneficial for all.

The Gentle Giant: Maitake & Kale Metabolic Support Broth

This broth is a gentle, supportive tonic for the body’s complex systems. Maitake mushroom, also known as ‘Hen of the Woods,’ is prized for its ability to help modulate the immune system and support healthy blood sugar levels. We’ve added nutrient-dense kale to provide a boost of vitamins and minerals, creating a well-rounded brew for metabolic health.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs pork trotters or neck bones
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon organic Maitake mushroom powder or extract
• 2 large kale leaves, stems removed, and roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Place the pork bones, water, and apple cider vinegar in a stockpot or slow cooker. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a very low simmer. Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface.
3. Cover and simmer for at least 24 hours to get all the collagen and minerals from the pork bones.
4. In the final 20 minutes of cooking, add the chopped kale leaves.
5. Turn off the heat. Stir in the Maitake mushroom powder and the coconut oil until both are fully incorporated.
6. Allow the broth to cool completely before straining out all the solids.
7. Store in glass jars in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for several months.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is an excellent supportive broth for dogs who may be struggling with weight management or metabolic balance. Its gentle, nutrient-dense nature makes it a wonderful addition to the diet of large-breed dogs and any pup needing a little extra TLC for their internal systems.

The Allergy-Fighter: Chaga & Nettle Seasonal Support Broth

Does your dog turn into an itchy, sneezy mess when the seasons change? This broth is designed to provide some natural relief. Chaga mushrooms, which grow on birch trees, are an antioxidant powerhouse packed with compounds that can help calm inflammation. We’ve paired it with stinging nettle leaf, a herb well-known in natural circles for its ability to help the body manage its histamine response.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs lamb necks or other bony lamb cuts
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon organic Chaga mushroom powder (or 1-2 small chunks)
• 1 tablespoon dried stinging nettle leaf
• A few sprigs of fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. In a large stockpot, combine the lamb bones, water, and apple cider vinegar. Let stand for 30 minutes.
2. If using Chaga chunks, add them now. Add the thyme sprigs.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and skim the surface.
4. Cover and simmer for 12-24 hours. Lamb bones are quite hard and benefit from a long cooking time.
5. In the last 15 minutes of cooking, stir in the dried nettle leaf.
6. Turn off the heat. If you used Chaga chunks, remove them. If using powder, stir it in now until dissolved.
7. Let the broth cool completely before straining thoroughly.
8. Store in the fridge or freezer. Lamb broth sets into a lovely, firm jelly when chilled.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

For the dog that scratches from spring through fall, this broth is a fantastic addition to their routine. It works from the inside out to help soothe the inflammatory responses that cause so much discomfort, supporting a happier, less itchy pup.

The Multi-Mushroom Powerhouse: 5-Mushroom Blend Super Broth

Can’t decide which mushroom is best for your dog? Why not use them all! This recipe utilizes a pre-made blend of several medicinal mushrooms to provide a wide array of benefits in every spoonful. It’s the ultimate daily wellness tonic, covering everything from immunity and energy to cognitive and gut health. Think of it as your dog’s daily multivitamin in a delicious, hydrating form.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef marrow bones
• 1 lb chicken feet
• 1 gallon filtered water
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1.5 – 2 teaspoons of a 5- or 7-mushroom blend powder (typically containing Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, Turkey Tail, Cordyceps, etc.)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• A handful of fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Combine the beef bones, chicken feet, water, and apple cider vinegar in your largest stockpot or slow cooker. Let sit for 30 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and celery.
3. Bring to a boil, skim the foam, then reduce to a low and slow simmer.
4. Cover and simmer for at least 24 hours to extract all the goodness from the combination of bones.
5. In the final 15 minutes, add the fresh parsley.
6. Turn off the heat. While the broth is still very hot, whisk in your multi-mushroom blend powder, ensuring there are no clumps.
7. Let the broth cool completely. Strain meticulously to remove all bone and vegetable matter.
8. Pour into ice cube trays for easy, daily-dose servings.

Pros and Cons

The Verdict

This is the perfect all-rounder broth. If your dog is generally healthy and you’re looking for a simple, powerful way to maintain their wellness and give their immune system a daily tune-up, this is the recipe for you. It’s a fantastic and easy way to incorporate the synergistic power of multiple mushrooms into their diet.

Venturing into the world of medicinal mushrooms can feel a little overwhelming, but keeping a few quality indicators in mind will ensure you’re getting the best for your furry friend. Not all mushroom supplements are created equal!

Fruiting Bodies vs. Mycelium on Grain

This is the most important distinction. The ‘fruiting body’ is the part of the fungus you’d recognize as a mushroom. It contains the highest concentration of the beneficial compounds you’re looking for (like beta-glucans). ‘Mycelium’ is the root-like network of the fungus. Many cheaper products are ‘mycelium on grain,’ where the mycelium is grown on a grain substrate like oats or rice. The final product contains a lot of this starchy grain filler, diluting the actual mushroom content. Always look for products made from 100% mushroom fruiting bodies.

Organic and Sourced with Care

Fungi are bio-accumulators, meaning they readily absorb substances from their growing environment. This is great when they’re absorbing nutrients, but not so great if they’re absorbing pesticides, heavy metals, or other contaminants. Always choose certified organic mushrooms to ensure they are free from harmful chemicals.

Extraction Methods

The beneficial compounds in mushrooms are locked within tough cell walls made of chitin, which dogs can’t easily digest. To make them bioavailable, they need to be extracted. A hot water extraction is the standard and most effective method for pulling out the water-soluble beta-glucans that are crucial for immune support. Some products also use an alcohol extraction (a dual-extraction) to pull out other compounds like triterpenes. For a general-purpose broth, a hot water extracted powder is perfect.

Powder, Tincture, or Whole?

For making these broths, high-quality organic powders are the easiest and most effective option. They mix in readily and have already been extracted for bioavailability. You can use whole dried mushrooms (like the shiitake in our recipe), but it requires rehydration. Tinctures are also an option, but they are typically added directly to food or water rather than being cooked into a broth.

How much mushroom broth can I give my dog?

A good rule of thumb is to start small and go slow. Begin with about 1-2 tablespoons per 20 pounds of body weight per day, served over their food or as a separate treat. You can gradually increase the amount as you see how your dog tolerates it. It’s a nutrient-dense food, so you don’t need to pour a whole bowl!

Are there any side effects I should watch for?

Medicinal mushrooms are generally very safe for dogs when sourced from reputable companies. However, as with any new food, some dogs might experience mild digestive upset (like loose stools) at first. This is why starting with a small amount is key. If you notice any persistent issues, stop giving the broth and consult your veterinarian. Always talk to your vet before adding new supplements, especially if your dog has a health condition or is on medication.

Can I use wild mushrooms I find in my yard?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. This is extremely important. While some wild mushrooms are safe, many are highly toxic and can be fatal to dogs. It takes an expert mycologist to accurately identify mushrooms. Never, ever feed your dog a mushroom that you have foraged yourself unless you are a certified expert. Stick to high-quality, commercially available mushroom products from trusted brands specifically intended for consumption.

How should I store the broth, and how long does it last?

Once cooled, the broth should be stored in an airtight container (glass jars work wonderfully) in the refrigerator. It will last for about 5-7 days. For longer storage, we highly recommend freezing it. Pouring the broth into ice cube trays is a brilliant way to create perfectly portioned, ready-to-use ‘broth pupsicles’ that can be stored in a freezer bag for 6 months or more.