Last Updated: 28/09/2026
Can Dogs Eat Grapes, Sultanas or Raisins?
Can dogs eat grapes or raisins? The answer is a definite no. Both are highly toxic to dogs and can lead to life-threatening kidney failure. Even a small amount can be dangerous. Our vet guide explains the signs of toxicity and the urgent steps to take.
Author: Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc
Reading Time: 3 minutes - short read
It's tempting to share healthy snacks like fruit with your dog, but are grapes a safe choice? The answer is a definite no. Grapes, sultanas and raisins are highly toxic to dogs and can cause severe illness, even in small amounts.
Yes, grapes, sultanas and raisins are all bad for dogs, and there is no known safe amount, whether the fruit is fresh, dried, or baked into something like a fruit cake. If your dog eats any amount, treat it as a vet emergency and call your vet immediately, even if they seem completely fine.
This guide covers why they're so dangerous, the signs of toxicity to watch for, and what to do if your dog gets into any of them.
Why are grapes, sultanas and raisins toxic to dogs?
Grapes, raisins, and sultanas are all highly toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. There is no known safe dose, so even a small amount can be dangerous.
While the exact toxin isn't 100% certain, a recent theory suggests that tartaric acid (also found in tamarinds and cream of tartar) may be the culprit. It's also worth being wary of foods that contain these ingredients, such as fruit cake, Christmas pudding, hot cross buns and trail mixes, which carry the same risk.
One of the most common mistakes we see is owners assuming a slice of fruit cake or a muesli bar is harmless because it "doesn't have whole grapes in it" - the dried fruit inside carries exactly the same risk. We've treated dogs that got into a Christmas cake left on a bench overnight, where the raisin content wasn't obvious until it was too late. Read our guide to Christmas cake and dried fruit for more on festive foods to watch for, since baked goods are a common way dogs end up eating raisins.
What are the signs of grape, sultana and raisin toxicity?
The first signs are usually vomiting and diarrhoea, which often begin within 24 hours. You may also notice lost appetite, lethargy, weakness, or abdominal pain.
As toxicity progresses, these signs can lead to acute kidney failure. You might notice your dog drinking and urinating excessively, or in severe cases, they may stop urinating altogether. This is a life-threatening emergency, and the sooner your dog receives treatment, the better their prognosis.
Possible signs of grape toxicity:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Abdominal pain
- Increased drinking and urination, which can quickly progress to lack of urination as kidney failure develops
What should I do if my dog eats grapes, sultanas or raisins?
Contact your vet immediately so they can hopefully induce vomiting before the fruit causes damage. Vets aim to do this within about two hours of ingestion, when it's most effective at limiting toxin absorption - so calling straight away gives your dog the best chance of a full recovery. Never try to induce vomiting yourself without veterinary guidance.
Your vet may also recommend activated charcoal, intravenous fluids to support the kidneys, and blood tests to monitor kidney function.
Outside clinic hours, call your nearest emergency veterinary centre, or the Animal Poisons Helpline (1300 869 738) is available 24/7. For other everyday risks, see our guide to toxic foods for dogs.
What fruits are safe for dogs to eat?
The good news is that plenty of tasty fruits are safe for your pup! If your dog is craving a sweet treat you can feed them blueberries, strawberries, watermelon or cucumber safely.
For more options, take a read through Which human foods are safe for pets?
If your pup has a sweet tooth you can check out some of our sweeter varieties of dog treats on offer.
Grapes, sultanas and raisins are never a safe treat, whether fresh, dried or baked into something else. Because the toxic dose isn't known and the consequences can be severe, prevention is key.
Always keep grapes, sultanas and raisins - and anything baked with them - well out of your dog's reach. If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount, contact your vet immediately.
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History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Mon 28 Sep 2026
Edited by Dr Gillian Hill BVSc (Hons)Dr Samantha Wycherley BVSc
Contributing Author, BVSc
Dr Samantha works as a companion animal veterinarian in Melbourne. Graduated from Massey University in New Zealand in 2015. I have worked in NZ, across the UK and in Australia. Special interests include wildlife and senior pet medicine.
