Can Dogs Eat Figs? How This Fruit Can Benefit Your Pup
Hannah Roundy
Can dogs eat figs safely? In small servings, fresh figs can be quite nutritious for dogs, here's how.
This seedy fruit most likely isn’t part of your dog’s current diet. But are figs safe for dogs to eat? Keep reading to find out.
Are figs safe for dogs to eat?
Can dogs eat figs safely? Yes, fresh figs are perfectly safe for your pup to consume. Keep in mind that dogs should only eat small amounts of figs. In small servings, fresh figs can be quite nutritious for dogs.
Can dogs eat figs if they are dried? No, we do not recommend feeding dried figs to dogs.
Dried figs have a higher concentration of sugar than fresh figs and too much sugar is dangerous for dogs. Think of it more like a sugary bite of candy rather than a piece of fruit. This reduces the wholesome health benefits that dogs can get from eating figs.
Dogs should also avoid eating any part of the fig plant other than the fruit. Fig leaves, branches, and bark can be toxic to dogs. If your dog eats parts of the fig plant, they may experience excessive drooling, skin rashes, and digestive irritation. Contact your vet if you notice these symptoms in your dog.
Benefits of Figs for Dogs
Most consider figs to be a superfood for humans and dogs alike. They are packed with natural vitamins and minerals to support various functions of your pup’s body.
Fresh figs have the following key benefits:
- Fiber - This nutrient supports your pup’s digestive system for smooth, seamless stools.
- Vitamin A - A key vitamin for healthy vision, cell growth, and reproductive health in dogs.
- Potassium - Balances your dog’s electrolyte levels and boosts their metabolism. Also, a key nutrient to a healthy heart, muscles, and nerve function.
- Iron - Essential for healthy energy levels, enzyme function, and brain development.
- Vitamin C - What can’t vitamin C do? This nutrient supports your dog’s immunity system with natural antioxidant properties. Vitamin C can also reduce joint pain and inflammation in your pup’s body.
- Magnesium - A key nutrient for strong muscles and healthy bones. Magnesium can also help your dog’s body respond healthily to stress and anxiety.
How to Serve Figs to Dogs
Remember to only feed fresh figs to your pups. Dogs cannot eat Fig Newtons, dried figs, or any other parts of the fig plant.
We recommend chopping up fresh figs and serving them to your dog as a treat or snack in between meals. Dogs may also enjoy this fruit as a topper to their daily meals. If your dog needs some enrichment time, chop the fig into small pieces and put them inside a toy or puzzle feeder.
Other Fruits That Dogs Can Eat
Figs aren’t the only fruit safe for your pup to snack on. In fact, most fruits are safe for dogs to eat and can offer them various health benefits. You’ll even find a few of these in Sundays Food for Dogs recipes.
Blueberries
If dogs had a favorite fruit, it would probably be blueberries. Pups adore the sweet taste of blueberries so much that they are often included in dog treats and food to enhance flavor. Blueberries also pack a tiny but mighty punch of nutrition since they have plenty of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories.
Apples
Apples are a great boost for your dog’s immunity as well as a delectable treat. This fruit is rich in vitamin C to strength your dog’s immune system along with cell-protecting vitamin A. Dogs that love crunchy treats will love snacking on an apple, too.
Oranges
Your dog may or may not appreciate the tart flavor of an orange, but it is safe for them to eat. Oranges are infamous for their rich levels of vitamin C. Along with boosting immunity, vitamin C helps your dog’s body respond properly to stress.
Pumpkin
Yes, pumpkin is a fruit – and it’s one of our dog’s favorites. Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs and supports healthy digestion, skin health, and coat shine. Dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin can experience life-changing results just by adding pumpkin to their diet. Plus, dogs love the taste of pureed pumpkin.