Can Dogs Eat Grapes?
If you have a dog, you want them to have a balanced diet to stay healthy. While certain fruits can be good for dogs to eat, grapes are not.
Grapes and raisins are highly toxic for dogs, regardless of breed, age, or gender. There is ongoing research about why that is.
The toxic substance in grapes is unknown, but dogs cannot metabolize tannins, flavonoids, and monosaccharides from grapes. This could be the main reason for grape toxicity in dogs.
All types of grapes — whether red or green, cooked, seedless, peeled, dried, or fresh — can be toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. Grape toxicity is linked to kidney damage. Eating grapes of any kind and in any form can result in sudden kidney (renal) failure and even death.
Can dogs eat grape leaves?
Grapes and grape leaves contain tartaric acid, a substance that affects the taste, smell, and quality of wine. Scientists discovered that tartaric acid could be what makes grapes toxic to dogs. Until there's more research, it's recommended to keep dogs away from grape leaves.
Can dogs eat raisins?
Raisins are dried grapes, so dogs should also not eat raisins. Like standard grapes, raisins can be toxic to dogs. Even one raisin can make your dog very sick or lead to sudden kidney failure.
Can dogs eat grape jelly?
Many types of grapes and products made from grapes are poisonous for dogs. Dogs should not eat grape jam.
What Should You Do if Your Dog Eats Grapes?
Even if your dog eats just one grape, contact your veterinarian immediately and watch for serious symptoms that can be fatal, such as nausea and vomiting. If your dog has trouble breathing or any signs of distress, visit your vet right away.
If you can't get to your veterinarian right away (or their office is closed), contact them via phone, call an emergency veterinarian or a pet poison hotline, or have an online veterinary visit.
A pet specialist may suggest you make your dog throw up (if your dog doesn't vomit on their own), as vomiting can be a fast way to get the harmful food out of your dog's system. The only way to proceed with doing so is with guidance from a professional.
There are certain instances where you shouldn't induce vomiting, including if:
- Your dog becomes unconscious.
- You're not exactly sure what they've eaten.
- Your dog is having trouble breathing or showing other signs of distress.
- Your dog is a certain breed, such as Pekingese or Pug, as they're at risk for aspiration pneumonia.
Your vet may also suggest giving your dog activated charcoal to help minimize toxin absorption in the intestines.
Are grapes poisonous to dogs?
Even one grape can be poisonous to dogs. Scientists and veterinarians don't know the exact amount of grapes that will make a dog sick, but it may depend on a dog's weight. More than one grape or raisin per 10 pounds of body weight can put your dog at risk for kidney issues.
What Are the Symptoms of Grape Poisoning in Dogs?
Acute symptoms develop within 24 hours of eating the fruit. Initial signs of grape toxicity include weakness and loss of appetite.
Severe signs of kidney failure are noticeable 24 to 48 hours after eating the fruit and include abdominal pain, vomiting, and uremic breath (fishy odor). Some other signs of grape poisoning include:
- Anorexia
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Increased thirst
- Excessive urination
- Anuria (no longer peeing)
- Dehydration
- Mouth ulcers
- High blood pressure
- Seizures
- Oliguria (decreased urination)
If you think that your pet has eaten grapes or raisins and you observe any of these symptoms, you should take your dog to the hospital as soon as possible.
How Do I Prevent Grape Poisoning in My Dog?
Grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas should never be fed to dogs. You should also make sure your dog does not consume raisin bread, grape juice, or grape jam and jelly. Be aware that some protein bars contain raisins, making them a source of toxicity to your dog.
The best way to prevent grape toxicity in dogs is to keep these food items away from your pet.
Make sure that family members and friends visiting your house are aware of the risk of giving grapes or grape products to dogs.
Takeaways
All types of grapes in any amount can be highly toxic to your dog. Dogs can get kidney failure or even die from eating grapes. Watch out for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. If you think your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Can Dogs Eat Grapes FAQs
Will my dog be OK if he ate a few raisins?
If your dog ate a few raisins, he could get very sick. You should call your veterinarian as soon as possible if you think your dog has eaten raisins.
How much grape is toxic to dogs?
It's not known exactly how many grapes are toxic to dogs, but more than one grape or raisin can affect your dog's kidneys.
How long does it take for a dog to show signs of poisoning?
It usually takes 24 hours for a dog to show signs of poisoning. More severe symptoms tend to appear within 24 to 48 hours.
How many grapes are too many for dogs?
No amount of grapes is safe for dogs. Call your vet if your dog has eaten grapes.
