Dog Tips

Can Dogs Eat Fig?

Unlike popular known fact that figs are a type of fruit, a fig is not actually a fruit; it is an inflorescence—a cluster of many flowers and seeds contained inside a bulbous stem. Humans have developed a liking for these fruits and so have dogs because of their sweetness. The question is, are they good for dogs? The answer is Yes! But do read the entire article to know all facts about it.

Can Dogs Eat Figs?

Figs have a fresh, honeyed taste, a soft and squishy texture. Given a dogs liking for similar fruits like mangoes, bananas, etc. your dog is more likely to enjoy a session of Fig bowl.

Is Fig good for your dog?

Figs have been linked to good health and prosperity since ancient times. There were offered to the Greed Goddess Demeter, of agriculture and fertility. They have been known to reduce high blood pressure, risks of heart diseases, improve digestion, increase bone density, among other benefits. Are these the same benefits that your dog will get? Yes. They are an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Iron, Potassium and Magnesium for dogs as well.

Vitamins – are good for eyesight, especially when your dog is matured, as they help prevent cataracts and helps with night blindness and even dry eyes. They are essential fat-soluble vitamin that has functions supporting bone growth, reproduction, cellular differentiation and immune response in dogs. They also boost energy metabolism and assists skin tissue maintenance. For the young ones, they support their overall growth.

Calcium – It helps with your dog’s growth, maintaining healthy bones and teeth, proper muscle building and function, heart health, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Potassium – It aids in the functioning of electrical charges in the heart, nerves, and muscles. It also helps to revive the dogs energy if it is feeling tired all the time.

Magnesium – It helps regulate blood glucose levels and aids in the production of energy and protein. Other benefits include maintaining normal nerve to muscle function, support a healthy immune system and keep the heart beat steady.

They are other nutrients as well in fig. But does that mean they should be fed lots and lots of Figs for them to stay healthy? The answer is – No.

How much Fig is good for your Dog?

Humans can eat up to 2-3 figs per day but when it comes to dogs, it is very important to limit the same to avoid complications in the stomach. The limit should be kept at 1-2 fresh figs in a week. Let’s break this down according to the breeds and sizes of the dogs.

  • Extra-small dog (2-20 lbs.) = half a fig per week

For e.g.: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs

  • Small dog (21-30 lbs.) = half or a little more fig per week

For e.g.: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds

  • Medium dog (31-50 lbs.) = 1 fig per week

For e.g.: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Siberian Huskies

  • Large dog (51-90 lbs.) = 1-2 figs per week

For e.g.: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds

  • Extra-large dog (91+ lbs.) = 1-2.5 figs per week

For e.g.: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Fig Recipes for your dog

We humans like to prepare figs in various forms to make it more delicious than it already is to please our tastebuds. The same can be done for your doggo to treat it for its good behavior or a good training session. Some recipe options are

  • Raw Fig – Best way to feed the dog. Just make sure you rinse it properly as we don’t trust the modern-day supermarket fruits which are usually coated with insecticides and pesticides among other chemicals

  • Peanut Butter snack with fig jam – A little hard work there but your dog will love it and will probably treat you after that with licks and cuddles

  • Fig cakes – Only if the butter content is very limited and the sugar is unsweetened

Potential health risks for dogs

Now we have established that figs are good for health given their immense nutritional properties. But they do possess some risks for the dogs if not given in a proper quantity ot form. They include –

  • Dry Figs – Dry figs are very high in sugar. Anything high in sugar is bad for your dog, They are also high in calories

  • Fig Plants – Fig plants are toxic for dogs. The trees, branches and the bark are like poison to the dog and can face severe issues if it eats any part of these, especially the fig leaves. Health issues include rashes, drooling, skin irritation or even life threatening conditions in some cases

  • High portions – Feeding the dog more than recommended dose of fig can lead to several health problems mostly because of the high sugar content

  • Allergic reactions – There are a few breeds which can be allergic to the fruit. So it is always advised to introduce figs in small quantities first to check if your pup is free from allergies from fig. If you see any symptoms like vomiting or skin irritation then stop feeding the fruit to the dog.

What can happen if your dog eats an unusual amount of Fig?

If your dog ate some fig while you were getting ready for a presentation or talking to your long-distance girlfriend, or you were feeling a lot of love towards your doggo and ended up feeding more than recommended amount, keep an eye out for the following symptoms of an upset stomach. You should contact your vet right away if you see –

  • Excessive drooling

  • Diarrhea

  • Vomiting

  • Pawing at the face

  • Rubbing the face in distress

  • Abdominal pain when lifted or touched

  • Irritated skin

  • Mouth pain

  • Lethargy or lack of willingness to train or walk

Other Fruits That Are Safe To Eat for Your Dog

If your dog tends to turn up its nose at a treat that’s been offered many times before, or if you simply want to add variety to their diet, you can try these fruits as well:

Remember that grapes and raisins are never fruits you should feed your dog. These have particular enzymes in them that are toxic to dogs—avoid grapes and raisins around your dog like you avoid chocolate! We have compiled a big list of all the fruits your dogs should eat here.

Dogs can eat sweet potatoes and many other vegetables instead.

Conclusion

A treat to the human and a dog’s tongue, fig is not just tasty but also very nutritious for your dog which can help in building bones, improve digestion, increase immunity, decrease the risk of heart conditions and many more. Just make sure you stick to the recommended quantities and formats of feeding fig to your dog.

Happy Mood and Health to your Doggo and lots of Love and Licks to you!

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