Can dogs eat Fig Newtons?

Fig Newtons aren’t harmful to dogs, so technically, dogs can eat them, but they shouldn’t. Fig Newtons aren’t toxic to dogs, so there’s nothing to worry about if they sneak one. However, it’s best not to indulge your dog’s sweet tooth. Feeding them sugary treats can make them fat, lazy, and sluggish, and they might start refusing their regular kibble. It’s our responsibility to provide nourishing foods for our dogs, so don’t fall for those puppy eyes! Stick to healthier options to keep them happy and healthy.

Fig Newtons are a classic American cookie that many of us grew up snacking on. They’re made by encasing a sweet fig paste in a soft, cakey dough. The main ingredients include wheat flour, fig paste, sugar, corn syrup, and a variety of oils and preservatives to keep them fresh and tasty. 

These cookies have a distinct flavor thanks to the natural sweetness of figs, balanced with a touch of acidity. While they might be a nostalgic treat for us, they’re packed with sugar and other additives that aren’t ideal for our dogs. So, while it might be tempting to share, it’s better to keep Fig Newtons as a human-only snack.

What to do if dogs eat a lot of Fig Newtons?

We’ve all been there—dogs stealing our food like raccoons. But if your dog eats a lot of Fig Newtons, there’s really nothing you need to do immediately. Just make sure they avoid sugary, fatty, and processed treats in the future. It’s best to avoid addictive desserts, especially highly processed ones.

We also need to be careful about homemade treats. Just like we discussed when analyzing whether dogs can eat cheesecake, homemade goodies can contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs, like certain sweeteners or high-fat content.

However, be very careful with sugar-free Fig Newtons made with xylitol, as this sweetener can be harmful to dogs. Xylitol can cause severe health issues, so always check the ingredients before sharing any treats with your dog. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always best to consult your vet.

Why sugar and fat are not good for dogs

Sugar and fat aren’t good for dogs for a few reasons. First, too much sugar can lead to weight gain and obesity, which puts extra stress on their joints and can lead to other health problems like diabetes. Dogs’ bodies don’t process sugar the same way humans do, and even a little bit of extra sugar can cause issues over time. Plus, sugar can mess with their digestive system, leading to upset stomachs and diarrhea.

Fat is another problem. While dogs do need some fat in their diet, too much can lead to pancreatitis, a painful and potentially serious condition. High-fat foods can also contribute to obesity, which brings its own set of health challenges. Dogs aren’t built to handle large amounts of fat, especially the kind found in many processed treats and human foods.

Processed food: an occasional treat for us, not for dogs

We all love the occasional treat, but we know that eating too much processed food isn’t good for our health. Processed foods often lack essential nutrients and minerals our bodies need, so we try to eat them in moderation and focus on nourishing whole foods. The same goes for our dogs. Feeding them processed snacks can deplete them of the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

Instead of giving them these unhealthy treats, we should focus on providing balanced, nutritious food that supports their overall well-being. After all, our goal is to keep our dogs happy and healthy, just like we do for ourselves.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Are Fig Newtons safe for dogs?

Fig Newtons are not harmul and they are not toxic to dogs, but they aren’t good for them either. They are high in sugar and fat, which is never good for dogs and it can lead to problems with obesity and cause digestive issues. It’s best to avoid giving Fig Newtons to your dog.

Are fig rolls ok for dogs?

Fig rolls, like Fig Newtons, are not toxic but aren’t recommended for dogs. They contain a lot of sugar and fat, which can upset their stomach and cause long-term health issues. Stick to dog-specific treats to keep your pet healthy.