Can dogs eat grapes? The answer (and this goes for raisins, too, which are just dried grapes) is easy: No, dogs should never eat grapes. Grapes and raisins are known to be highly toxic to dogs, though research has yet to pinpoint exactly which substance in the fruit causes this reaction.
Breed, sex, or age of a dog has no influence on the risk of being affected, and since there is no proven amount that is safe, you shouldn鈥檛 be giving your pup grapes or raisins at all.
Can a Single Grape Kill a Dog?
Unfortunately, even consuming one grape or raisin can be fatal. Ingesting the fruit could potentially lead to acute (sudden) kidney failure in dogs.
Signs and Symptoms of Toxic Ingestion
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy, weakness, and unusual stillness
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea, often within a few hours
- Abdominal pain (tender when touched)
- Dehydration (signs include panting, dry nose and mouth, and pale gums). A quick way to test for dehydration is to gently pull up on the skin at the back of your dog鈥檚 neck. It should spring back immediately if they are properly hydrated.
- Increased thirst and/or urine production or diminished amount of urine or complete cessation altogether
- Kidney failure (which can be fatal)
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Grapes
If your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, treatment is absolutely critical. Contact your veterinarian, who may suggest you induce vomiting as soon as possible. However, you should not induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, having trouble breathing, or exhibiting signs of distress, as well as if you鈥檙e not sure what they have eaten.