You have just finished creating the most whimsical cheese board. Your friends are going to lose it when they come to book club and realize all the selections subtly relate to the main characters’ names. Your pup has been watching you prepare your masterpiece, the figs for the Earl of Figdome. Can you toss her a fig as a treat?

Yes! Figs can be a delicious treat for your pup. Figs are high in sugar and fiber so allowing you pup a little is okay, but in large quantities it can be harmful. Adding excess sugar to your pup’s diet can lead to diabetes and weight gain. Too much fiber can cause gastrointestinal distress. Thus moderation is key, ideally never more than one to two figs in a week.

Be sure to remove the skin of the fig which is often covered in pesticide residue, which can cause significant digestive issues. For smaller dogs be sure to cut the fig into smaller pieces to avoid choking hazards.

Some dogs have a reaction to the ficin in figs. These symptoms, which are not a sign of toxicity, include excessive drooling, diarrhea and vomiting. Should your dog present these symptoms, it is best to avoid figs in the future.

To ensure your pet will live a long and healthy life, it is always a good idea to invest in pet health insurance. Preparing for the unexpected guarantees money is never an issue in keeping you pup healthy.