Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

My 30 kg Labrador ate one small slice of ripe persimmon without the seeds — is this an emergency for a big dog?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, persimmon is toxic to dogs and warrants immediate action, regardless of size. The ASPCA lists it as toxic because the fruit can cause stomach upset and the flesh may form a dangerous blockage in the intestines. While a larger dog may tolerate a tiny amount slightly better, the risk of obstruction and toxicity is still very real. You should call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 right away for advice specific to your dog's weight and what was ingested.

Persimmon — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Listed by ASPCA as toxic: unripe fruit and seeds can cause stomach upset, and the flesh may form a blockage in the gut.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Persimmon should not be given to dogs at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Stone-fruit pits and some seeds release cyanide when crushed, and quite apart from that they are a choking and blockage hazard.

Persimmon has no place in everyday feeding: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged after this and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Persimmon food facts page.

Open the full food page: Persimmon food facts →