Is Grapes, Raisins & Currants Toxic to Dogs?

Grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic compound was recently identified as tartaric acid. The amount needed to cause poisoning varies — some dogs are severely affected by just a few grapes.

Quick Answer

Yes, grapes, raisins & currants is toxic to dogs. LETHAL — even small amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs. Grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic compound was recently identified as tartaric acid. The amount needed to cause poisoning varies — some dogs are severely affected by just a few grapes. Watch for symptoms like vomiting within 6-12 hours and diarrhea and lethargy.

Emergency

If your dog was exposed, contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 immediately.

Symptoms to Watch For

Vomiting within 6-12 hours
Diarrhea and lethargy
Decreased urination
Abdominal pain
Kidney failure within 24-72 hours

Timeline

Vomiting within 6-12 hours. Kidney failure can develop within 24-72 hours.

Treatment

EMERGENCY VET — even for 1 grape
Induced vomiting if within 2 hours
Activated charcoal
Aggressive IV fluid therapy for 48-72 hours
Blood work monitoring for kidney function

Prevention

Keep grapes and raisins completely away from dogs
Check ingredient lists — raisins are in trail mix, cookies, breads
No safe amount exists — some dogs react to a single grape
Educate children not to share grapes with dogs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is grapes, raisins & currants toxic to dogs?▼

LETHAL — even small amounts can cause kidney failure in dogs. Grapes, raisins, currants, and sultanas can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic compound was recently identified as tartaric acid. The amount needed to cause poisoning varies — some dogs are severely affected by just a few grapes.

What happens if my dog is exposed to grapes, raisins & currants?▼

Symptoms include: Vomiting within 6-12 hours; Diarrhea and lethargy; Decreased urination. Vomiting within 6-12 hours. Kidney failure can develop within 24-72 hours.

What should I do if my dog ingested grapes, raisins & currants?▼

EMERGENCY VET — even for 1 grape. Induced vomiting if within 2 hours. Activated charcoal.

How can I protect my dog from grapes, raisins & currants?▼

Keep grapes and raisins completely away from dogs. Check ingredient lists — raisins are in trail mix, cookies, breads. No safe amount exists — some dogs react to a single grape. Educate children not to share grapes with dogs.