Can Dogs Eat Grapes? How Grapes Affect Dogs

Grapes are a toxic substance for canines, and pet owners should never feed their dog grapes. While your pooch can consume some human foods—including tofu and ginger—ingestion of grapes (even a single grape) can lead to acute renal failure for all dog breeds of all sizes. This includes grape products like raisins, currants, seedless grapes, and grape juice.

Due to their toxic nature, dog owners need to store grapes in a closed fridge or somewhere your dog cannot access them. Ensure any products that contain grapes (raisin bread, trail mix, some cereals) are out of reach. Ask house guests to refrain from feeding your dog human food, especially grapes. If your dog consumes any amount of grapes, take them to the veterinarian immediately.

Grape consumption can seriously damage a dog’s kidneys and even lead to acute kidney failure. Early-stage signs of grape poisoning or raisin toxicity—including vomiting, trouble breathing, and abdominal pain—can arise within two and twenty-four hours of ingestion. More advanced symptoms indicative of kidney failure typically occur within seventy-two hours of consumption. These include dehydration (indicated by a dry nose and excessive thirst), loss of appetite, and irregular urination patterns.

If your dog ate grapes, follow these instructions:

1. 1. Call your vet. If you catch your dog eating grapes—or if you suspect they did—call your veterinarian immediately. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center helpline is another helpful resource to understand whether your pet is having a toxic reaction.
2. 2. Take your dog to see a vet. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog is experiencing symptoms of grape toxicity. Take them to a veterinary emergency room if needed.
3. 3. Treat them immediately. Most vets will induce vomiting if your dog eats grapes, followed by an activated charcoal treatment to decontaminate and prevent absorption. The veterinarian may also use intravenous fluids to reduce kidney damage.
4. 4. Run tests. Your veterinarian may run a urinalysis (or a urine test) and blood tests to determine kidney damage.
5. 5. Take your pet to the hospital. Your dog will likely stay in the veterinary hospital for a few days following treatment for grape poisoning, so the veterinarian can keep an eye on them. They’ll continue to do blood work and monitor your pup’s recovery.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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