Can Dogs Eat Grapes or Raisins?
Grapes, Raisins, and Currants are Toxic for Dogs.
Question: Can Dogs Eat Grapes or Raisins?
Verdict: No
Verdict Explanation: Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs, with the potential to cause acute kidney failure regardless of the fruit’s type, cooking, or quantity. Owners should avoid feeding these fruits to their dogs entirely and seek immediate veterinary care if accidental ingestion occurs.
The Dangers of Grapes and Raisins for Dogs: What Research Shows
- While grapes and raisins are healthy snacks for humans, they pose a serious threat to our canine companions. Multiple research studies have shown that these seemingly innocuous fruits can be highly toxic to dogs, potentially leading to acute kidney failure.
- Both grapes and raisins, regardless of their type or form, have been consistently reported to cause acute kidney failure in dogs – whether seedless, seeded, green, red, organic or conventionally grown – all grapes and raisins pose a threat.
- Even small amounts can be dangerous, and there is no known safe quantity, as dogs seem to have individual sensitivities.
The Toxic Threat
- The exact reason why grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs remains a mystery, but scientists have identified some potential culprits. Recent studies suggest that compounds like tartaric acid and potassium bitartrate may be the primary toxins responsible for the dangerous effects.
What About Grapes or Raisins that Have Been Processed into Different Forms?
- Cooking the grapes or raisins does not make them any safer for dogs to consume. The toxic compounds remain present even after the fruit has been heated or processed.
- Grape jellies, juices and wines also contain these harmful substances and should be avoided.
- Raisins may actually be more dangerous than grapes, as the dehydration process can concentrate the toxic compounds.
Symptoms of Grape/Raisin Toxicity
- Dogs that ingest grapes or raisins may exhibit vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and signs of kidney failure, such as decreased urination and abdominal pain. Prompt veterinary treatment is crucial.
