Can Dogs Eat Fig Newtons?

Fig Newtons are great snacks for humans. My family has always loved them! But should we share these tasty treats with our dogs?

In this article, we’ll talk about why it’s best that dogs don’t eat Fig Newtons and what to do if your dog eats them behind your back.

Are Fig Newtons Toxic to Dogs?

Fig Newtons aren’t toxic to dogs. Unlike cats, dogs can eat figs.

The problem with Fig Newtons for dogs is their high sugar and salt content. Eaten in excess, Fig Newtons can also cause weight gain.

A small piece of Fig Newton once in a while isn’t likely to hurt your dog unless it has an ongoing medical issue that the sugars and salts might exacerbate, such as diabetes.

However, your dog shouldn’t get Fig Newtons daily or eat many in one sitting. It’s better to give it healthy treats.

That said, the primary ingredient in Fig Newtons (the figs) has some health benefits for our pups. They’re just better fed plain, with no added salts and sugars.

Figs are high in fiber, which helps to regulate your dog’s digestive system, and they’re also high in potassium, which can help lower blood pressure. If your dog has kidney disease, though, excess potassium might not be good for it.

Always consult your veterinarian before adding foods to your dog’s diet, especially if it has a chronic medical condition.

Can Dogs Be Allergic to Figs?

Yes, some dogs can be allergic to figs. If yours is, then obviously avoid feeding it Fig Newtons!

Allergies are just one reason–alongside stomach problems–that we should always give new foods to our dogs in very small amounts. You also need to monitor your dog for symptoms after feeding it a new food, just in case.

While most dogs will be completely okay, it’s good to know the symptoms of an allergic reaction so that you can visit the vet if needed.

Allergic reactions range from mild cases, like itching or sneezing, to severe cases that can result in anaphylactic shock.

If you notice your dog has swelling around the face, difficulty breathing, hives, or drooling excessively after eating new food, call an emergency vet clinic and have your dog seen as soon as possible. 

What To Do if Your Dog Eats Fig Newtons

If your dog only eats a couple of Fig Newtons, it will likely be okay. Of course, this depends on the size of your dog and its health. Small dogs will be more affected than large dogs and may more likely become sick from eating small amounts.

If you’re worried about your dog eating Fig Newtons because it has an ongoing health condition, you should call your veterinarian for advice and ask if your dog should be seen.

If your dog eats an entire pack of Fig Newtons, it may become sick in the same way humans do when we eat too much junk food.

Your dog might feel nauseous, vomit, or have diarrhea, and it might also have stomach pain or discomfort.

This is normal for a day or two, but call your veterinarian if symptoms persist beyond this or are serious. Serious symptoms include repeat vomiting, loss of appetite, increased drinking and urination, depression, and signs of anaphylactic shock like breaking out in hives, swelling in the face or snout, and excessive drooling.

If your dog vomits or has diarrhea indoors, remember to have patience. Never punish or scold it–remember, it’s your fault it was able to eat the Fig Newtons!

It is also advisable to take this as an opportunity to ensure human foods are kept well out of your dog’s reach. Next time, it might eat something toxic!

What About Plain Figs?

Plain figs are healthy for most dogs, so long as they’re fed in moderation. They have health benefits, such as being heart-healthy and good for digestion.

If you feed your dog plain figs, you’ll also avoid the added sugars and salt in Fig Newtons, which will be better for your dog’s health.

However, you should consult your veterinarian before feeding figs if your dog has medical conditions that limit its diet. For instance, dogs with kidney disease may not benefit from the high amount of potassium in figs.

Up Next:

• Can Dogs Eat Sugar?
• Can Dogs Eat Soy Sauce?
• Can Dogs Eat Figs? Dos and Don’ts.
• Can Dogs Eat Oreos? What You Should Know.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Ermolaev Alexander/Shutterstock.com