Can Dogs Eat Figs? Everything You Need To Know

Yes, dogs can eat figs in moderation. Fresh figs are not toxic for dogs. They have essential nutrients which are beneficial for canines. However, some downsides should be considered before offering figs to your dog. Consult your veterinarian before introducing figs to your dog. 

What Are Figs?

Figs are from the Moraceae family, naturally sweet and juicy fruits. They are native to the Mediterranean, West, and South Asian countries. They are used as a fruit, and the plant is used as ornaments in various cultures. They are packed with nutrients beneficial for both humans and animals. 

Are Figs Safe For Dogs?

Yes, figs are safe for dogs to eat. However, the leaves of the fig plant are dangerous for dogs. They are of rubbery texture and can cause stomach upset in dogs. It also has sap which has chemical compounds ficin and ficusin. Both the compounds are dangerous for dogs.

Why Are Figs Good For Dogs?

Figs are good for dogs due to the presence of essential nutrients which can help your dog in various ways. These are the types of fig that are good for dogs:

• Common figs
• Black figs
• Turkish figs
• Sour figs
• Smyrna figs
• Mission figs

Now let us see how figs can be healthy for your dog to consume in moderation:

Potassium: Potassium is an electrolyte essential for your dog’s health. It helps electrical charges in the heart and the proper functioning of nerves and muscles. If your dog lacks this vital mineral, you may notice that they are constantly fatigued, abnormal, or have no desire to eat.

Phosphorus: In dogs, phosphorus is necessary for maintaining healthy kidney function. Your puppy’s kidneys must be beneficial to drain toxins from his body through pee efficiently. As a result, he can stay in the most significant physical form possible. In addition, phosphorus aids motor function by assisting muscle contractions. This allows your dog to conduct typical duties such as walking, chewing, and following you on your morning runs. Phosphorus also aids your dog in maintaining a regular heart rate, which is especially important during activity. 

Iron: Iron is required to accomplish critical processes, including carrying oxygen throughout the body in the hemoglobin of red blood cells so that the cells can generate energy. Iron is also required to function various enzymes in the body properly.

Calcium: Calcium is an essential dietary component for your dog’s health. It is required for bone and tooth development, nerve impulse transmission, cell communication, muscle contraction, and blood coagulation. Therefore, it’s critical for your dog’s general health that he gets adequate calcium.

Magnesium: At the cellular level, magnesium is involved in energy generation. Magnesium is required to allow the passage of energy whenever your pet moves a muscle, has a heartbeat, or thinks.

Fiber: Fiber is an excellent source of nutrients for a dog’s digestive system. The healthy bacteria usually found in your dog’s colon digest fiber into fatty acids. This fatty acid then aids in the recovery of the colon by preventing the expansion of any harmful bacteria.

Other benefits of feeding Figs

• Promotes and supports digestive health
• Stimulates appetite
• Fig leaves relieves pain related flatulence

Why Are Figs Bad For Dogs?

Although Figs are good for dogs, they have downsides that must never be overlooked. So let us dive deep into the details of why figs are bad for dogs to consume:

Ficin and Ficusin: These are the two compounds present in the fig sap. Ficin and ficusin are dangerous for dogs. The consequences if your dog consumes these two compounds are:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Inflammation
• Lack of coordination
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• High temperatures
• Tremors

Natural Sugar: Figs have a high sugar concentration making them hazardous for dogs. The consequences of dogs consuming excessive sugar are:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Weight gain
• Cardiovascular issues
• Joint issues
• Hyperactivity
• Restlessness

Dietary Fiber: Fiber is necessary for dogs, but an excess amount can instead cause stomach issues like:

• Runny motions
• Vomiting
• Acidity
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Bloat

How Many Figs To Feed My Dog?

Moderation is the key! Offer your dog fig depending upon your dog’s size. For example, a small dog can have half a fresh fig. A large dog can have one fresh fig. However, this amount can only be fed after ensuring that the dogs are fig-tolerant. Hence, consult your vet, and introduce fig slowly to your dog. 

How To Serve Figs To My Dog?

Here are a few serving ideas which you can opt for:

• Fresh figs cut into pieces can be offered during the training session keeping in mind the 10% rule.
• In addition, you may steam the fig and serve it as a treat. 

What If My Dog Ate Figs?

If your dog ate fig accidentally, don’t panic. Provide your dog with enough water to ease his stomach. If your dog ate fig plant, check for the symptoms below and take him to the vet immediately:

• Choking
• Coughing
• Whining
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing
• Panting
• Restlessness

Frequently Asked Questions

Can puppies eat figs?

No, puppies should not have figs until they grow up. Their stomach is vulnerable and hence should depend only on puppy food. 

Can dogs eat fig jam?

No, fig jam contains extra sugar and other spices in some cases. As a result, they can be harmful to your dog, cause stomach issues, and even cause death.

Can dogs eat fig paste?

No, dogs cannot eat fig paste. This is because they contain added sugar, making them harmful to dogs. 

Can dogs eat dry figs?

No, dry figs have concentrated sugar which can be more hazardous than natural sugar. 

Can dogs eat fig newtons?

Fig newtons are snacks with an extra amount of salt, sugar, and spices. Unfortunately, these components can lead to death in dogs. Therefore the wise idea is not to feed fig newtons to your dog. 

Can dogs eat fig yogurt?

Yes, dogs can eat fig yogurt in moderation if they do not have added sugar. 

Final Thoughts

While we have reached the tail of the article, we can easily conclude that fresh and cooked figs in moderation are good for dogs. However, overfeeding figs can cause chronic stomach upset. You must consult the vet before you introduce figs to your dog. Ensure a healthy and happy life for your dog!