As a pet parent, you may have heard that grapes are a no-go for dogs. And it's true! While grapes are a healthy and delicious snack for humans, grapes and their dehydrated relative, raisins, are off limits for pups. But why are grapes bad for dogs? Learn more about how grapes can harm you furry family members.
According to the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, the primary internal injury in dogs from grapes occurs in the kidneys. In fact, dogs who have snacked on grapes or raisins are at risk of total kidney failure within 48 to 72 hours of eating this forbidden fruit.
Because of their decreased water content and concentrated remaining ingredients, raisins do pose a considerably heightened risk to dogs. An exact formula of how many grapes per pound of body weight are fatal to dogs has not yet been determined, but as few as four to five grapes were implicated in the death of an 18 lb (8.16 kg) dog, according to Merck Veterinary Manual.
Most affected dogs develop the first signs of toxicity within 6 to 12 hours. Clinical signs that may occur after a dog has eaten grapes include:
All dogs are susceptible to grape and raisin toxicosis — whether they're male or female, neutered or intact, Chihuahuas or Great Danes, puppies or senior dogs. Ingestion of only a few raisins can be deadly, depending upon your dog's size and other factors, many of which are not understood. Dogs with compromised kidney conditions are more at risk for grape and raisin toxicity.
Ingestion of grapes or raisins in dogs is an emergency warranting immediate veterinary intervention. If the grape ingestion has occurred within the last hour, your veterinarian will likely attempt to induce vomiting to remove the grapes from their system. If the grape recovery via vomiting is unsuccessful or if several hours have passed since the grapes were ingested, your veterinarian will likely recommend hospitalization for IV fluids and careful monitoring of kidney values. In most cases, they will recommend keeping them in the hospital through the entirety of the high risk period (i.e. roughly about 48-72 hours).
Diagnosis often involves history or evidence of ingestion is proof enough of the grape or raisin toxicity. Consistent clinical signs are valuable clues for your vet to gauge the level of damage done. It is important to remember diagnosis may take time and that there are no specific tests to confirm grape or raisin poisoning. Basic blood work and urinary tests are essential to reveal abnormal kidney function.
After your dog is sent home, periodic laboratory tests may be recommended to monitor your dog's kidney function. These tests are noninvasive and typically consist of bloodwork or urinary tests. Monitoring may be needed for several weeks, as it can take time for kidney function to return to normal.
Dogs that show no clinical signs may have a great prognosis if they're treated early. However, the prognosis may be uncertain if there is a delay in treatment or if there's a possibility for kidney failure. It may often take several days or weeks for kidney function to return to normal; however, in some cases, kidney function may never recover. Thankfully, many dogs can live healthy happy lives even with decreased kidney function, with a modification of food and supplements added to their daily routine. If your veterinarian diagnoses decreased kidney function in your dog, be sure to ask your veterinarian about potential therapeutic dog foods that help with kidney support.
Dr. Laci Schaible is a small animal veterinarian, veterinary journalist, and a thought leader in the industry. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University and her Masters in Legal Studies from Wake Forest University.
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
A delicious complement to the superior nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a small bite size.
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Learn how to properly feed and treat your little or small breed dog to keep their weight under control to avoid any weight-related health issues.
Learn important pool safety tips for your dog, including how to get them familiar with the pool, and supplies like life vests and ramps that can help.
Is turkey meat safe for dogs? Learn whether it's OK to feed your dog turkey and important info about certain spices, turkey skin & turkey bones.
Learn the underlying causes behind excessive dog farting, signs that gas problems may be a larger health concern, and how to help manage these issues.
Learn how to spot bullying behavior in dogs, including signs like being pushy, aggressive and stealing other dogs' food, and tips for putting a stop to it.
Before adopting an adult dog from a local pet shelter, be sure to consider this list of questions to ensure you are ready to properly care for them.
Learn more about if female dogs can have periods, when they can happen and a lot more about their estrus cycle.
Learn why your dog wants to escape your backyard, their clever ways of getting out, and tips for keeping them from escaping.
Learn how to provide your puppy the care he needs in his first 3 months to grow up stong, healthy, and social.
Discover helpful tips for managing a dog who's afraid of water, how to handle bath time, and how to get them more comfortable with swimming.
Learn important considerations for choosing the right leash, collar or harness for your dog, including factors like their breed, size, age & energy level.
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
Parvovirus in dogs, especially puppies, is a devastating illness that can be fatal. Learn the facts about parvo & what to do if your dog has been exposed.
Obesity can cause serious canine health issues, but following these 4 steps to achieve and maintain a healthy weight for your adult dog can help.
Learn how to tell if your dog might be too skinny, common reasons why they could be underweight, and tips for getting them to a healthy weight.
Learn why your dog likes to dig and what steps you can take to prevent him from digging in the future.
Learn why your dog's muzzle might be going gray earlier than expected, including whether it's just a sign of aging, stress, or an underlying health issue.
Concerned about a heart murmur in dogs? Learn more about what might be causing it and what you can do to help your dog.
Wondering why your dog is constipated? Or why he has diarrhea? Learn more about these common gastro issues in dogs, and tips for managing them at home.
Learn why grapes & raisins are poisonous for dogs, how to manage the situation if they've eaten them, symptoms to watch for, and when to go to the vet.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool