If you love fruits, you may be curious to know whether or not dogs can eat figs. Like us, dogs enjoy eating sweet treats once in a while, and fortunately, dogs can have figs without negative side effects or health issues. In fact, figs are good for dogs, offering organic vitamins and nutrients that provide a variety of benefits. However, it is important to note that while figs are safe for dogs to eat, we highly recommend pets don’t eat Fig Newtons. The sugar and empty calories make Fig Newtons bad for canines, leading to diabetes and obesity.
Nevertheless, raw and natural figs for dogs are encouraged. Read on to learn about why it’s OK to give your dog nutrient-rich figs in moderation, and how to check if your puppy may be allergic. After all, even if figs aren’t poisonous alone, a sensitive stomach or allergy can result in a very bad reaction.
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Health Benefits of Figs For Dogs
Figs are a healthy fruit that are loaded with health benefits for dogs. For starters, they are rich in natural sugars, which are going to give your dog energy, without the crash that happens when they eat foods that contain refined sugars and empty calories. Figs give them a boost of natural energy, allowing them to exercise, be active, and maintain a fit body.
Generally, it’s best to feed dogs fresh figs, as the dried versions contain more sugar, which may be counterproductive. Although organic and natural, too much sugar can still result in adverse health effects.
Figs are also high in dietary fiber, which helps maintain regular bowel movements. If your dog is overweight and on a diet, figs can be a healthy treat that is going to help them to manage their weight. Keep in mind that too many figs can make their digestive systems work too quickly, and dogs can end up with loose stool and diarrhea.
Finally, dogs need to have potassium in their diets, and figs are rich in this nutrient. Potassium can help keep your dog’s blood pressure regulated. If your dog tends to have high blood pressure, talk to your veterinarian about various natural treatments, including adding foods that are rich in potassium to their diets, such as figs, which also have many other benefits for heart health.
How Many Figs Can Dogs Have?
Just like any treat, you should never give too many figs to your dog. It is best to let your pet have one or two figs each week. Start out with just a small bite of a fig to make sure that your dog isn’t allergic. Signs that they are allergic or have a sensitive stomach include:
- Vomiting
- Drooling
- Rashes
- Itchy eyes
- Skin inflammation
- Coughing and wheezing
- Decreased appetites
Also, new foods can sometimes lead to upset stomachs so giving your dogs just one fig to try before adding it to their regular diets can help their digestive systems adjust. A couple of figs each week may promote a healthy heart and keep blood pressure regulated. Similarly, figs are good for dogs that are overweight and on diets.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Figs in Moderation
If your dogs aren’t allergic to them, figs are a perfectly safe treat to give them on occasion in moderation. Figs are high in fiber and potassium, both of which dogs need to remain healthy, and they taste great! Just make sure that you don’t give your dogs too many figs as it can lead to digestive issues.