Last Updated: 28/10/2025
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: 2 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.
This guide covers why they are so dangerous, the signs of toxicity to watch for, and what to do if your dog accidentally eats one.
Why are grapes toxic to dogs?
Grapes, raisins, and sultanas are all highly toxic to dogs and can lead to the development of acute kidney failure, which can be life-threatening. There is no known safe dose, meaning 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. Because the risk is so severe, it is also critical to be wary of any foods that contain these ingredients, such as fruit cake, Christmas pudding, hot cross buns, and some trail mixes, as they pose the same danger to your dog.
What are the signs of grape toxicity?
If your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, the first signs you'll typically see are vomiting and diarrhoea, which often begin within 24 hours of ingestion. You may also notice your dog has lost their appetite, become lethargic and weak, or is showing signs of abdominal pain.
As the toxicity progresses, these signs can lead to acute kidney failure. You might notice your dog is 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 veterinary 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 to do if your dog eats grapes
If your dog has eaten grapes, sultanas or raisins the best thing to do is to contact your vet immediately so they can hopefully induce vomiting before the grapes have time to cause any damage.
They may also recommend supportive treatment, such as activated charcoal to bind any remaining toxins, intravenous fluids to support the kidneys, and blood tests to monitor kidney function.
Safe fruits for dogs to eat
The good news is that there are plenty of tasty fruits out there that ARE safe for your pup to eat! If your dog is craving a sweet summer 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.
To keep your dog safe, it's essential to remember that grapes, sultanas and raisins are never a safe treat. Because the toxic dose isn't known and the consequences can be severe, prevention is key.
Always keep grapes and raisins well out of your dog's reach. If you suspect your dog has eaten any amount, treat it as an emergency and 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.
Tue 28 Oct 2025
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.
