Quick Answer
While a few raisins likely won’t cause major issues for most dogs, it’s best to avoid feeding them raisins altogether. Even small amounts of raisins and grapes can be toxic to dogs and potentially lead to kidney failure. If your dog eats raisins, monitor them closely and contact your vet if any symptoms develop.
Can Dogs Eat Raisins?
No, dogs should not eat raisins or grapes. Both raisins and grapes, along with products made from these fruits like grape juice and raisin bread, have the potential to cause kidney failure in dogs.
This condition is known as grape and raisin toxicity. It’s caused by an unknown toxin found in grapes and raisins that damages the kidneys.
All types of grapes and raisins, including red, green, and purple grapes, as well as regular, organic, and seedless varieties, are dangerous.
While the specific amount that can cause kidney damage varies between dogs, even a small number of raisins or grapes can potentially make dogs sick. To be safe, raisins and grapes should be kept away from dogs entirely.
Why Are Grapes and Raisins Toxic to Dogs?
Grapes and raisins contain an unknown toxin that is harmful to dogs if ingested. Researchers have tried to pinpoint the exact substance that causes the toxic reaction, but it remains unclear.
However, they do know that the toxicity appears to be concentrated in the flesh and skin of the grapes, versus the seeds. Dried grapes (raisins, currants, and sultanas) can be even more toxic, as the drying process appears to concentrate the toxic compounds.
The toxins interfere with the normal function of the kidneys, causing them to shut down and stop filtering waste. This can lead to severe illness and even death in some cases.
Unfortunately, there is no known antidote for grape and raisin poisoning in dogs. That’s why prevention and prompt veterinary care are so important.
What Amount of Raisins Can Hurt a Dog?
There is no established safe amount of raisins or grapes for dogs. The toxic dose depends on the size of the dog and other individual factors.
As few as 4-5 raisins may cause problems in very small dogs, while some large dogs can eat more before experiencing effects. Even a single grape or raisin can potentially lead to kidney damage and failure.
Toxicity can occur with even modest amounts. In one study, some dogs developed kidney failure after eating just 0.32 oz/kg to 0.65 oz/kg of grapes or raisins for several days.
Given the high level of uncertainty and individual variability, the safest approach is to avoid giving dogs grapes or raisins altogether.
Signs of Raisin and Grape Toxicity in Dogs
If a dog eats raisins, look for the following symptoms:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Increased thirst and urination
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness
- Dehydration
- Tremors
- Bad breath
- Oral ulcers
Symptoms often develop within 6-24 hours of ingestion. However, in some cases signs may not appear for several days.
Without treatment, dogs may progress to kidney failure. This is a life-threatening condition marked by a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream. Signs of kidney failure include extreme lethargy, severe vomiting, and foul breath.
If your dog eats any amount of raisins or grapes, take them to the vet immediately. Getting treatment quickly gives them the best chance of recovery.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Raisins
If you notice your dog eat raisins or find empty wrappers, follow these steps:
- Determine approximately how many raisins were ingested.
- Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.
- They may advise inducing vomiting unless it has been more than 2 hours since ingestion. Do not induce vomiting without first consulting a vet.
- Rush your dog to the vet clinic immediately. Bring the empty raisin package if possible.
- The vet will assess your dog’s symptoms and may do tests to check for kidney damage. Treatment may include IV fluids, kidney function monitoring, anti-nausea medication, and other supportive care.
- Expect to keep your dog hospitalized for at least 48 hours with close monitoring of kidney function.
- Avoid giving your dog any more food or treats until fully recovered, as eating can be taxing on the kidneys.
- Once back home, monitor your dog closely for recurring symptoms and contact the vet if you have any concerns.
- Prevent future incidents by keeping grapes, raisins, and other toxic human foods away from your dog.
With prompt veterinary treatment, many dogs recover fully and do not experience long-term kidney damage. However, for some dogs, acute kidney injury can become chronic, requiring lifelong management.
Can 3 Raisins Hurt a Dog?
It’s possible for even 3 raisins to cause toxicity in dogs, depending on the dog’s size and individual sensitivity. Small dogs, in particular, can become sick after eating just a few raisins.
There’s no established “safe” threshold, so it’s best not to feed dogs any amount of raisins or grapes. The tiny bit of fiber and nutrients they provide is not worth the risk.
While a few raisins may not always cause major issues, there’s no way to predict your dog’s reaction. So it’s smarter to play it safe and keep these fruits away from your dog completely.
If your dog eats 3 raisins, watch very closely for the next 24 hours for any signs of vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or other symptoms. Contact your vet for advice on inducing vomiting and continued monitoring.
How Many Raisins Will Kill a Dog?
The amount of raisins that can be fatal depends on the size of the dog. As few as 9 to 12 raisins per pound of body weight can cause kidney failure and be lethal.
For a small 10-pound dog, that’s just 90 to 120 raisins. Larger dogs can tolerate more raisins, but it’s still best to avoid them altogether.
There are many reports of dogs dying after eating just a handful of raisins. The safest approach is to assume raisins are highly toxic and keep them away from dogs.
If your dog ate a bunch of raisins, rush them to the emergency vet immediately for decontamination and kidney function monitoring. Prompt treatment is critical.
Treating Raisin or Grape Toxicity
If a dog eats raisins and shows signs of illness, they should be treated by a vet as quickly as possible. Treatment typically includes:
- Inducing vomiting if within the first 2 hours post-ingestion
- Intravenous (IV) fluids to support kidney function
- Injectable anti-nausea or anti-vomiting medication
- Kidney function testing and monitoring
- Medication to control kidney function
- Hospitalization with close monitoring for at least 48 hours
Dogs with mild kidney injury may make a full recovery within 1 to 3 days. More severe cases involving acute kidney failure require more aggressive therapy and longer hospitalization.
Sadly, some dogs who develop complete kidney failure do not survive, despite intensive veterinary treatment. That’s why preventing exposure to raisins and grapes is so important.
Can Kidney Damage from Raisins Be Reversed?
In cases of mild toxicity, kidney damage is often reversible with prompt veterinary treatment and supportive care. However, more severe kidney injury can cause permanent damage.
The longer kidney dysfunction goes on, the higher the risk of long-term impairment. Unfortunately, dogs who develop complete kidney failure often have non-reversible damage.
That’s why immediate vet care improves the chances that kidney damage will be limited and reversible. Still, there is no way to predict whether kidney function will fully return to normal in dogs poisoned by raisins.
Lifelong kidney issues, including chronic kidney disease, are possible in some cases. Regular monitoring of kidney values is recommended even after dogs recover from acute raisin toxicity.
Preventing Raisin and Grape Toxicity in Dogs
Here are some tips to keep your dog safe:
- Do not purposefully feed grapes or raisins to your dog in any amount.
- Check ingredient lists carefully and avoid dog foods and treats containing grapes or raisins.
- Keep grapes, raisins, and foods that may contain them out of reach of your dog.
- Make sure children do not accidentally share grapes, raisins, or baked goods containing them with the dog.
- When baking with raisins or grapes, keep the unused portion sealed and disposed of out of the dog’s reach.
- Securely lid garbage cans containing raisin or grape products.
- Avoid eating grapes or raisins in front of your dog to prevent them from grabbing these foods.
- Supervise dogs closely when in areas where grapes or raisins may have been dropped, such as under a fruiting grapevine or vineyard.
- Teach children not to feed grapes or raisins to the dog.
- Know where your nearest emergency vet clinic is located in case prompt treatment is ever needed.
Following these precautions can help protect your dog from ever experiencing this dangerous toxicity. Spread the word so more pet owners understand the risks of grapes and raisins to dogs.
Are Raisins as Bad as Chocolate for Dogs?
Chocolate and raisins are both toxic foods for dogs, but raisins may potentially be more dangerous in some cases.
While the toxicity level depends on the type and amount of chocolate consumed, the degree of raisin toxicity is less predictable. Even a few raisins can potentially cause kidney damage in dogs, while a tiny amount of milk chocolate likely won’t harm them.
Another key difference is that chocolate has an antidote, while raisins and grapes do not. Vets can treat chocolate toxicity by using medications to counteract the effects and induce vomiting. With raisins, treatment mainly involves aggressive supportive care.
One similarity is that prompt veterinary treatment is crucial for dogs who ingest either chocolate or raisins. Both can lead to death without proper, timely medical intervention.
Overall, both chocolate and raisins should be kept far away from dogs. But raisins have the potential to cause harm even in very small amounts, making them especially dangerous.
Raisin Alternatives for Dogs
While raisins should be avoided, there are many other safer snack options to give your dog as treats. Some healthy alternatives include:
- Carrots
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Sweet potatoes
- Green beans
- Pumpkin
- Peanut butter
- Popcorn
- Rice cakes
When choosing fruits and veggies, opt for those with lower sugar content. Be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces before feeding to avoid choking hazard.
You can also find many commercial dog treats made without grapes or raisins. Always supervise dogs when eating and follow suggested treat guidelines based on your dog’s size and diet.
While raisins may seem like a healthy option, they pose too much risk. Stick with dog-approved snacks that are nutritious and safe.
Raisin Toxicity in Other Pets
Grapes and raisins are also toxic to cats. No part of the grape plant should be given to cats. Even small ingestions can lead to kidney damage.
Other pets may also be vulnerable, including ferrets, birds, and horses. Be cautious and avoid feeding grapes, raisins, or foods containing them to any animal companion unless specifically approved by a veterinarian.
Key Takeaways
- Raisins are toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney injury and failure.
- Very small amounts, even a few grapes or raisins, can potentially be deadly.
- Vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, and loss of appetite are common symptoms.
- Prompt veterinary treatment is essential for the best chance of recovery.
- Prevention is key – keep all grapes, raisins, and foods containing them away from dogs.
- Opt for safe, dog-friendly snacks instead of raisins or grapes as treats.
The bottom line
Raisins and grapes should be kept far away from dogs. Even a few of these fruits can lead to toxicity, so avoid feeding them entirely. If ingestion occurs, rush your dog to the vet immediately. With prompt treatment, many dogs fully recover and avoid permanent kidney damage. Prevention is the key to keeping your dog safe from grape and raisin poisoning.
