Can Dogs Eat Figs? In Moderation

Why it’s fine in small amounts

PetMD says fresh figs are not toxic to dogs, and AKC agrees that the soft flesh is generally safe in small amounts. Figs bring vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron, but they are also sugary and fibrous, so they work as an occasional treat only.

The tree is a different story. AKC and PetMD both say the leaves, stems, bark and branches of the fig plant can be harmful to dogs, with PetMD advising immediate veterinary care if a dog eats any of it. Signs listed by AKC include vomiting, heavy drooling and skin irritation or rashes. Do not confuse the fruit tree with the weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), a common houseplant that is not the source of the figs we eat. The ASPCA lists the weeping fig as toxic to dogs because of ficin, an enzyme, and a psoralen, which can irritate the stomach and skin.

Too many figs can cause gas, bloating, vomiting or diarrhea. Dried figs have concentrated sugar and Fig Newtons add sugar and other ingredients, so both are better skipped, particularly for overweight or diabetic dogs.

Benefits

Fresh fig flesh provides vitamins A and C, calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron
A soft, naturally sweet treat in tiny portions

Risks

Leaves, stems, bark and branches of fig plants can be harmful
Eating fig plant parts can cause vomiting, heavy drooling and skin irritation
Too many figs can cause gas, bloating, vomiting or diarrhea
Dried figs and fig cookies are high in sugar

How to serve it safely

Rinse a fresh fig, remove the stem and any leaves, and give a tiny piece of the soft inside first, watching for stomach upset or an allergic reaction. PetMD notes the skin is not toxic but advises that puppies should not eat it. Cut the fruit small to reduce choking risk.

PetMD's guide runs from about a quarter of a fig a week for the smallest dogs to up to three figs a week for the largest. Treats should stay under about 10% of daily calories. If you grow fig trees or keep a weeping fig houseplant, keep your dog away from the leaves, bark and branches. Easier fruit options include blueberries and bananas.

Related forms

Food	Verdict	Why
Fresh fig flesh	In moderation	Tiny pieces, stem and leaves removed.
Dried figs	With caution	Concentrated sugar; not a good treat.
Fig Newtons and fig bars	With caution	Added sugar and other ingredients; PetMD does not recommend them.
Fig tree leaves, stems, bark and branches	No	AKC and PetMD say the plant is harmful; get veterinary care if eaten.
Weeping fig houseplant (Ficus benjamina)	No	A different plant from the fruit tree; the ASPCA lists it as toxic to dogs.

If your dog already ate it

A bite of fresh fig flesh usually causes nothing worse than a soft stool. PetMD says to see a vet if mild symptoms last more than 48 hours, and bloody vomit or stool, or watery stool, needs an immediate visit.

If your dog chewed fig tree leaves, stems, bark or branches, or a weeping fig houseplant, call your vet right away. Signs include vomiting, heavy drooling and skin irritation or a rash. You can also call ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Do not make your dog vomit at home.

Frequently asked questions

Are figs poisonous to dogs?

The fruit's flesh is not, but the leaves, stems, bark and branches of the fig tree can be harmful. Separately, the ASPCA lists the weeping fig, a houseplant that is not the source of the figs sold as fruit, as toxic to dogs.

Can dogs eat dried figs?

It is better not to. AKC and PetMD both advise against dried figs because the sugar is concentrated.

Can dogs eat Fig Newtons?

PetMD specifically does not recommend them, as they contain added sugar and other ingredients.

How many figs can a dog eat?

PetMD's guide runs from about a quarter of a fig a week for extra-small dogs to up to three a week for extra-large dogs. Ask your vet first if your dog has a health condition.

Written from veterinary sources by the Pawsplained editorial team. Not yet reviewed by a veterinarian; this is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Updated Oct 30, 2026. Editorial policy

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