If your pet is in immediate danger, call your vet or emergency animal hospital NOW. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
Grape & Raisin Toxicity in Dogs
Grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas are highly toxic to dogs and can cause acute kidney failure. The exact toxic substance has not been identified, and there is no known safe dose — some dogs have become severely ill after eating just a few grapes. Toxicity appears to be unpredictable and is not related to the dog's size, breed, or age.
Symptoms to Watch ForWarning Signs
- Vomiting (usually within a few hours of ingestion)
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite and lethargy
- Abdominal pain and tenderness
- Decreased or no urine production (a critical sign of kidney failure)
- Increased thirst followed by decreased thirst as kidneys fail
- Dehydration
- Tremors, seizures, or coma in severe cases
Immediate First AidAct Now
- 1Call your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately
- 2If ingestion was within the last 2 hours and your vet advises it, induce vomiting with 3% hydrogen peroxide
- 3Do NOT induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, struggling to breathe, or having seizures
- 4Do not wait for symptoms to appear — early treatment significantly improves outcomes
- 5Collect any remaining grapes/raisins and note the approximate amount consumed
- 6Transport to an emergency vet clinic as soon as possible
When to Call the Vet
- Always call immediately — there is no known safe dose of grapes for dogs
- Even one or two grapes could potentially cause kidney failure
- If your dog vomits and you see grape/raisin remnants, this confirms ingestion
- Monitor urine output — decreased urination is a medical emergency
Additional Information
Foods that contain grapes or raisins include trail mix, granola bars, baked goods, wine, grape juice, and some cereals. Kidney failure from grape/raisin toxicity can develop within 24-72 hours and may be irreversible. Early decontamination and aggressive IV fluid therapy give the best chance of recovery.