During your winter walks, it is important to be mindful of potentially poisonous fatal mushrooms and fungi.

As we enter peak mushroom season, dog owners need to be wary as these can be fatal for animals. 

These can be found rapidly sprouting in mild, wet areas such as woodlands, parks and gardens until late November. 

The most common poisonous mushrooms in the UK are: 

  • Fly Agaric
  • Death Cap 
  • Deadly Webcap 
  • Funeral Bell
  • Destroying Angel
  • Fool’s Funnel 
  • Panther Cap
  • Angel’s Wings​

The Fly agaric is perhaps the most recognisable. This can be identified by its distinctive red colour with white spots.

The Fly agaric is perhaps the most recognisable type of poisonous fungi. The Fly agaric is perhaps the most recognisable type of poisonous fungi. (Image: University of Sheffield/PA Wire) When spotting the other mushrooms, look out for white gills, a ring around the stem, a volva (a sac or cup-shaped structure that surrounds the base of a mushroom's stalk), a red colour on the cap or stem and a putrid smell. 

Dog experts from Kennel Store have explained the signs and symptoms of mushroom poisoning and how to protect dogs from toxic variants. 

Dogs that have eaten a poisonous mushroom may show symptoms such as vomiting, a stomach ache, diarrhoea, lethargy, excessive drooling, wobbling, yellowing of the eyes, skin or gums, seizures, loss of motor control and collapsing. 

If you suspect your dog has eaten a poisonous mushroom you should immediately seek help from the vets. 

The experts said: " Take a picture or if possible a sample of the mushroom that has been eaten to the vets so they have an idea of what the dog has eaten and how to proceed with the best treatment. 

"You may not see your dog eat a mushroom but if you notice neurological signs, agitation or vocalisation and behaviour that is different to normal, take your dog vets. Symptoms can be frightening so it's important to stay calm and act quickly."