Glossary

Grape and raisin toxicity

Poisoning from grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants that can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs, at amounts that are hard to predict.

Also called: grape poisoning, raisin poisoning, currants and dogs, sultanas and dogs, grape toxicity

Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants can make dogs seriously ill, and the cause of the toxicity is still unconfirmed. It is not predictable. Some dogs eat a handful and seem fine, while others become ill after only a few, so no amount is known to be safe and every case is treated as serious.

The main danger is sudden kidney failure. Vomiting usually appears within hours, sometimes with grape pieces in it. Later signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, then less urine as the kidneys fail.

Call a veterinarian or pet poison hotline right away, even if the dog seems well, because early care makes a large difference. Hidden sources include raisin bread, trail mix, cookies and cereal. Keep these foods away from dogs and tell visitors not to share them.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Chronic kidney disease A gradual, permanent loss of kidney function that causes increased thirst and urination, weight loss and poor appetite, mainly in older dogs. Xylitol A sugar substitute in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods and some peanut butters that is highly poisonous to dogs and a veterinary emergency. Chocolate toxicity Poisoning from the theobromine and caffeine in chocolate, which is more dangerous the darker the chocolate and the smaller the dog.