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Can Dogs Eat Persimmons? Nutrition Facts & Safety Guide

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By Nicole Cosgrove

Can Dogs Eat persimmons

If you are wondering whether or not to give your dog persimmons, we have to admit you have a lucky dog. Persimmons are a wonderful treat for humans, and the fact that you want to share that with your dog makes you the kind of pet owner we know and understand. Persimmons are a great treat to give your dog because of their nutritional benefits, but there are a few guidelines you must follow before sharing this juicy fruit with your dog.1 In this guide, we will give you valuable information about persimmons, what they are suitable for, and any dangers associated with feeding them to your four-legged friend.

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What Is A Persimmon?

Depending on where you live, you may or may not have even heard of a persimmon. A persimmon is a berry; it can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked. Persimmons are usually very sweet as long as they are ripe and are more commonly found in winter. Many people use persimmons in pies, but they can also be eaten right off the tree. Persimmons come in two varieties, the Fuyu and the Hachiya.

Persimmons
Image credit: JamesDeMers, Pixabay

What Are The Health Benefits Of Persimmons?

Many people eat persimmons for their health benefits.

  • High levels of dietary fiber
  • Nutrients like beta-carotene (good for your eyes), vitamin C, and iron
  • High levels of antioxidants
  • Betulinic acid, which has been shown to help with inflammation and potentially cancer prevention

Do The Health Benefits Of Persimmons Transfer To Dogs?

Yes, it seems as though dogs benefit from eating persimmons. Vitamin A, vitamin C, and beta-carotene are the essential benefits to a dog. However, you must watch to ensure dogs don’t eat too many of them.

How Much Persimmon Is Safe For Dogs?

If you have a small dog, you should only share a small piece of persimmon. Since persimmons are natural laxatives, your dog may have an upset stomach if you give them more. For a large dog, one to two servings should be about right. However, we always recommend starting with a minimal amount as a test to see how your dog’s digestive system handles the treat.

It is also worth mentioning again that it is a treat. You don’t need to run to the store and pick up persimmons for your dog to eat daily. You can use persimmons as a reward and an alternative to calorie-rich commercial treats.

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How Do You Prepare a Persimmon for Your Dog?

You MUST take the pit and seeds out of the persimmon before giving it to your dog. If you do not do this, your dog will very likely have a severe gastrointestinal blockage that will require medical attention. If your dog likes persimmons, make sure that you store them out of your dog’s reach, so they don’t accidentally ingest the seeds.

Persimmons
Image credit: jackmac34, Pixabay

Are There Any Dangers to Giving Your Dog Persimmons?

Yes, there are two dangers when it comes to giving your dog persimmons:

  • If you give your dog too many persimmons, they may have diarrhea or stomach issues. If it is a new food that you are introducing, make sure to start slow. You may want to begin with just a tiny bit of persimmon and see how your dog handles it. If they do alright, decide on an appropriate amount to give your dog, but you do not want persimmons to become a significant part of their diet.
  • If you leave the seeds inside the persimmon, they can cause a blockage for your dog. If your dog digests the seeds or the pit of a persimmon, pay close attention to ensure they are still behaving normally. If you have any concerns at all, it is best to contact your vet immediately.

What Are Other Berries That Could Be Good for My Dog?

Anything with large pits or seeds is pretty dangerous for a dog. Some of the best berries you can feed your dog are blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. You will want to ensure you give your dog berries in moderation since too many can cause stomach issues. Blueberries are a great treat to use for training purposes. If you are trying to teach your dog a new trick but don’t want to keep giving them treats, sometimes a few blueberries will work.Divider 7

Conclusion

A piece of persimmon without the seeds or pit is a sweet treat to share with your dog. As long as your dog’s stomach is not upset by the persimmon, it is a much healthier option than a manufactured dog treat. However, if your dog accidentally eats the whole fruit, it is best to contact a vet immediately.


Featured image credit: cywpekr, Pixabay

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