• Beta-Glucans

  • The Nippon Vet Study

  • The Cognitive Study

  • PSP & PSK

Turkey tail mushrooms contain high doses of naturally occurring compounds called beta-glucans.

Beta-glucans are a type of polysaccharide studied for their ability to interact with immune cells in the body.

Research suggests beta-glucans may help activate immune cells such as:

• macrophages
• natural killer (NK) cells
• T-cells

These immune responses play a role in helping the body identify and respond to abnormal or damaged cells.

Because of these properties, beta-glucans are widely studied in both human and veterinary immunology research.

Shiitake Mushroom Powder Supplementation Increases Antioxidative Activity in Dogs — Kusaba & Arai, Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 2024. Healthy dogs were given shiitake mushroom powder daily for four weeks. Body weight stayed the same, but the dogs showed a significant increase in antioxidant activity (superoxide dismutase) and a gene linked to cellular aging (sirtuin1), plus lower total cholesterol. The researchers concluded shiitake supplementation may help support dogs against age-related oxidative stress.

Link:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11220243/

Prospective Evaluation of a Mushroom-Derived Nutraceutical in Dogs with Cognitive Decline — reported via PetFood Industry, Nov 2025. Thirty senior dogs showing signs of cognitive decline were given a mushroom-and-adaptogen blend (lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, plus ashwagandha and bacopa) for 12 weeks. 81% of the dogs improved or stabilized on cognitive scoring, with better sleep tracked by wearable collars and improved inflammation/neuroprotection blood markers. This was a study of a competitor's own supplement, not an independent trial of BetterPet's formula, so it's best used as general category evidence for mushrooms and cognitive support rather than proof of your product specifically.

Link: https://www.petfoodindustry.com/nutrition/research-notes/news/15771281/study-mushroom-supplement-improves-cognitive-function-in-senior-dogs

Another key group of compounds found in turkey tail mushrooms are polysaccharopeptides, commonly referred to as PSP and PSK.

These compounds have been the focus of research in Japan and other countries for their potential immune-supporting properties.

Studies exploring PSP and PSK have examined their ability to support immune system activity and maintain normal cellular function.

Turkey tail mushrooms contain compounds such as beta-glucans and polysaccharopeptides that have been widely studied for their interaction with immune system pathways.

Veterinary research, including studies conducted at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, has explored the effects of turkey tail extracts in dogs.