Can Dogs Eat Figs?
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NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on veterinary diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
There’s nothing quite like a juicy fig, but can you share a bite with your pup?
Fresh figs are not toxic to dogs, but that doesn’t mean all figs are OK for your pooch. Here’s what to know before giving your dog a taste.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs can have a tiny amount of fresh fig as an occasional treat.
- Too many figs may cause stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Dried figs and fig-flavored snacks are too sugary and may contain unsafe ingredients.
- Every part of the fig plant, including stems and leaves, is toxic to dogs and requires immediate veterinary care if eaten.
Can Dogs Eat Figs?
Yes, most dogs can eat a tiny amount of a fresh fig without any issues. However, figs should not be a regular part of your dog’s diet.
Are Figs Good for Dogs?
Yes, figs do have some health benefits, but your dog is unlikely to reap the benefits since they’ll be eating such a tiny amount.
That said, figs are rich in:
- Vitamins A and C, which may help support your dog’s immune system
- Iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body
- Calcium, which is good for bone health
- Potassium and magnesium, which can boost muscle, nerve, and heart health
Are Figs Bad for Dogs?
Yes, they can be. Eating too many fresh figs can cause GI upset in your dog, since they’re not part of your dog’s regular diet. Once figs are dried, their sugars are concentrated, making this a sugary dessert—and not at all healthy.
Ingesting any part of a fig plant can be life-threatening and should be considered a medical emergency. Head to your veterinarian right away. You can call Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661; a fee applies) on the way.
How Many Figs Can Dogs Eat?
If you’re offering your dog a fresh fig, you’ll still want to stick to a small amount.
Keep in mind that no treats, including figs and other fruits, should take up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
| Dog Size | Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1/4 fresh fig per week |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 1/2 fresh fig per week |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | Up to 1 fresh fig per week |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | Up to 2 fresh figs per week |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | Up to 3 fresh figs per week |
How To Safely Feed Figs to Dogs
Here’s how to safely feed your dog figs:
- Remove any part of the fig plant, such as leaves and stems, which are toxic, before serving.
- Avoid feeding any pre-made foods containing figs, including cookies and snack bars. These often contain ingredients that are unhealthy or toxic for dogs.
- Rinse the plain fresh fig in water, then chop it into bite-size pieces for your dog. You can also offer it as a food topper. (The skin is nontoxic and can be eaten, but puppies might have trouble digesting it—so avoid feeding them the skin.)
- Try stuffing plain, fresh fig into a toy, such as a Kong, then freeze it for a long-lasting snack.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Too Many Figs
Even in a healthy dog, too many fresh figs can cause problems.
Ingesting too many figs may cause:
- Upset stomach
- Gas
- Bloating
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea (sometimes explosive or bloody diarrhea)
Visit your veterinarian if mild symptoms don’t improve within 48 hours. However, severe symptoms—such as bloody vomit or stool or watery stool—merit an immediate vet visit.
The fig plant is toxic to dogs, and eating any part of the plant—including leaves, branches, and bark—can make your dog sick.
Your dog may have symptoms such as:
If your dog ingests any part of the fig plant, seek immediate veterinary care.
What Other Fruits Can Dogs Eat?
Lots of fruits are safe for dogs, including:
However, not all fruits are OK for your dog to eat, and you should always ask your vet before giving your dog a new food.
Want a treat that’s sure to be safe? Try these store-bought fruity treats for your pup.
Dogs and Figs FAQs
Can dogs eat Fig Newtons?
No, dogs should not eat Fig Newtons or dried figs. These sugary cookies contain additional ingredients—especially sugar and spices—that are not healthy for dogs and, in large amounts, could be toxic.
Can dogs eat fig leaves?
No, all parts of the fig plant are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.
