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

Is a whole ripe persimmon more dangerous for a 5 kg Chihuahua or a 30 kg Labrador?

Dogs · Food safety

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

Short answer

It's dangerous for both, but the risk is significantly higher for the small Chihuahua. Persimmons are toxic to dogs; the seeds and unripe fruit can cause stomach upset, and the flesh may form a dangerous intestinal blockage. A whole fruit represents a much larger dose relative to body weight for a 5 kg dog, increasing the toxicity and blockage risk. For any dog that eats persimmon, especially a small breed, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or your emergency vet immediately, as prompt care is crucial.

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.

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

Open the full food page: Persimmon food facts →