· 7 min read
Can Dogs Eat Dates and Figs? A Pet Parent’s Guide to Safe Snacking
You’re curled up on the couch, enjoying a handful of sweet, chewy dates or a ripe, juicy fig, when suddenly you feel a wet nose nudge your hand. Your dog’s eyes are wide, tail thumping—they want a bite, too! It’s a common scenario: we love sharing our favorite snacks with our furry companions, but when it comes to fruits like dates and figs, it’s natural to wonder, “Is this safe for my dog?”
Spoiler: Dates and figs aren’t toxic to dogs, but like many human foods, they come with caveats. In this guide, we’ll break down the benefits, risks, and how to safely share these fruits (if at all) with your pup. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Can Dogs Eat Dates and Figs? The Short Answer
- The Benefits of Dates and Figs for Dogs (When Given Responsibly)
- The Risks: Why Too Much of These Fruits Can Harm Your Dog
- Safe Serving Sizes: How Much Can Your Dog Actually Have?
- Healthier Alternatives to Dates and Figs
- FAQ: Your Most Pressing Questions Answered
- Conclusion: Treat Smart, Wag More
- References
Can Dogs Eat Dates and Figs? The Short Answer
Yes, dogs can eat dates and figs in small, occasional amounts—but they’re far from a “superfood” for your pup. These fruits are non-toxic, but their high sugar content and potential choking risks mean they should never be a regular part of your dog’s diet. Think of them as a rare treat, not a daily snack.
To keep your dog safe, always remove pits (for dates) and cut the fruit into small, bite-sized pieces. And if your dog has health issues like diabetes, obesity, or digestive sensitivities, it’s best to skip them altogether.
The Benefits of Dates and Figs for Dogs (When Given Responsibly)
Dates and figs are packed with nutrients that can benefit dogs—in moderation. Let’s break down what makes these fruits potentially worthwhile as an occasional treat.
Nutrients in Dates
Dates are often called “nature’s candy,” but they’re more than just sweet. They contain:
- Fiber: A single Medjool date has about 3 grams of fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and supporting gut health.
- Potassium: Essential for heart and muscle function, potassium helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in dogs (just like in humans!).
- B Vitamins: Dates offer B vitamins (thiamine, niacin, B6), which support energy metabolism and brain health.
- Vitamin K: Important for blood clotting and bone health.
For dogs, these nutrients can support overall wellness—but only if consumed in tiny doses.
Nutrients in Figs
Figs (fresh or dried) are also nutrient-dense, with:
- Fiber: Fresh figs have about 1.5 grams of fiber per fruit, while dried figs pack even more (around 3 grams per serving). Fiber keeps your dog’s digestive system running smoothly.
- Calcium: Critical for strong bones and teeth, especially in growing puppies and senior dogs.
- Iron: Helps transport oxygen in the blood, supporting energy levels and preventing anemia.
- Antioxidants: Compounds like polyphenols in figs may reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Again, these benefits are only meaningful if the fruit is given sparingly. Too much fiber or sugar can quickly outweigh the positives.
The Risks: Why Too Much of These Fruits Can Harm Your Dog
While dates and figs have upsides, their risks are significant—especially if overfed. Here’s what to watch out for:
Sugar Overload: A Hidden Danger
Dates are extremely high in sugar. A single Medjool date contains about 16 grams of sugar—more than a can of soda! Dried figs aren’t much better, with around 10 grams of sugar per small fruit.
Dogs’ bodies aren’t designed to process large amounts of sugar. Excess sugar can lead to:
- Obesity: Extra calories from sugar quickly add up, increasing the risk of joint pain, heart disease, and other obesity-related issues.
- Diabetes: Chronic high sugar intake can impair insulin regulation, leading to diabetes (a lifelong condition requiring daily management).
- Dental Problems: Sugar feeds harmful bacteria in your dog’s mouth, causing plaque, tartar, and cavities.
Even “natural” sugar is sugar—your dog doesn’t need it in their diet.
Fiber: The Double-Edged Sword
Fiber is great for digestion, but too much can backfire. Dates and figs are high in fiber, and sudden large doses can overwhelm your dog’s gut, leading to:
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Bloating or gas
- Stomach cramps
Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with sensitive stomachs are especially prone to these issues.
Choking Hazards and Pits
Dates have hard, inedible pits that pose a serious choking risk. If swallowed whole, pits can also cause intestinal blockages (a life-threatening emergency requiring surgery). Always remove pits before offering dates to your dog.
Figs, especially dried ones, are chewy and sticky. Large pieces can get stuck in your dog’s throat, especially for small breeds. To reduce risk, cut figs into thin slices or small chunks.
Safe Serving Sizes: How Much Can Your Dog Actually Have?
The golden rule: Less is more. Dates and figs should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake (and even that’s a stretch for these high-sugar fruits). Here’s a rough guide based on your dog’s size:
Fresh vs. Dried: What’s Better?
Fresh dates and figs are always better than dried. Dried versions have had their water removed, concentrating the sugar content. For example, 1 dried date has the same sugar as 2-3 fresh dates! Stick to fresh when possible, and if using dried, cut portions in half.
Portion Guidelines by Dog Size
| Dog Size | Fresh Date (1 small date = ~20g) | Fresh Fig (1 small fig = ~50g) | Dried Date (1 small = ~10g) | Dried Fig (1 small = ~20g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (5-10 lbs) | 1-2 pieces (remove pit first!) | 1-2 thin slices | 1 small piece | 1 tiny piece |
| Medium (20-50 lbs) | 1 small date (pitted, cut into chunks) | ½ fresh fig (sliced) | ½ dried date | 1 small slice |
| Large (50+ lbs) | 1 small date (pitted) or 2 tiny dates | 1 small fresh fig (sliced) | 1 small dried date | ½ dried fig |
Pro tip: Always introduce new foods slowly. Start with a tiny piece and monitor your dog for 24 hours. If they show signs of stomach upset (vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy), skip future servings.
Healthier Alternatives to Dates and Figs
If you want to treat your dog to a fruity snack without the sugar rush, try these safer, nutrient-dense alternatives:
- Blueberries: Low in sugar, high in antioxidants. Great for brain health!
- Apples: Remove seeds and core, then slice. Rich in fiber and vitamin C (no added sugar!).
- Carrots: Crunchy, low-calorie, and great for dental health. Dogs love them!
- Bananas: A small slice (once a week) offers potassium and fiber (but still has natural sugar—moderation!).
- Pumpkin: Plain, cooked pumpkin (not pie filling) is packed with fiber and soothes upset stomachs.
These options are lower in sugar, higher in nutrients, and less likely to cause digestive issues.
FAQ: Your Most Pressing Questions Answered
Q: Can dogs eat date pits?
A: No! Date pits are hard, indigestible, and pose a choking or blockage risk. Always remove pits before offering dates to your dog.
Q: Are figs toxic to dogs?
A: No, fresh figs are non-toxic. However, fig leaves and stems contain a milky sap that can irritate some dogs’ skin or stomachs—stick to the fruit only.
Q: My dog ate a whole date/fig—should I panic?
A: Probably not, but monitor them closely. A single date or fig is unlikely to harm a healthy dog, but watch for diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy. If symptoms last more than 24 hours, contact your vet.
Q: Can diabetic dogs eat dates or figs?
A: No. The high sugar content will spike blood sugar levels, which is dangerous for dogs with diabetes.
Q: Are there any dogs who should never eat dates or figs?
A: Yes! Avoid these fruits if your dog has:
- Diabetes or insulin resistance
- Obesity
- Pancreatitis
- Digestive disorders (IBS, inflammatory bowel disease)
Conclusion: Treat Smart, Wag More
Dates and figs aren’t “off-limits” for dogs, but they’re far from ideal. While they offer some nutrients, their high sugar content and choking risks make them a “once in a blue moon” treat at best.
When in doubt, opt for lower-sugar alternatives like blueberries or carrots—your dog will love them just as much, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re supporting their health. And as always, if you’re unsure whether a food is safe for your pup, check with your vet first.
After all, the best treats are the ones that keep your dog happy, healthy, and wagging for years to come.
Happy snacking (responsibly)!
References
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.” aspca.org
- PetMD. “Can Dogs Eat Dates?” petmd.com
- American Kennel Club (AKC). “Can Dogs Eat Figs?” akc.org
- Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Coates. “Fruits and Veggies Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.” pethealthnetwork.com