PET HEALTH
Can Dogs Eat Grapes? Why You Should Avoid Them
Since the days of Ancient Greece, grapes have been a symbol of status and decadence. Every dog owner wants to treat their pooch like royalty. But, when it comes to “people” food, there are some treats that should be avoided. Can dogs eat grapes? Read on for the truth about this storied fruit.
Can Dogs Have Grapes?
No. Grapes are known to be highly toxic to dogs of all breeds, often leading to acute renal (kidney) failure.3 This can quickly become fatal, making them one of the most dangerous household items for your dog. Unfortunately, the reason for this has yet to be identified. All we know for sure is that grapes contain a substance that is deadly for dogs regardless of age, sex, or breed.
Can dogs eat raisins?
Raisins are dried grapes, so they are still toxic to all dogs. The same goes for currants, sultanas, and anything that contains grapes as an ingredient. Raisin bread, jam, and protein bars (which often contain grapes) should all be avoided.2
Why Are Grapes Bad for Dogs?
Despite ongoing research, the toxic substance in grapes has not been identified. Whatever it is remains present in grapes even if they’re peeled, dried, cooked, or processed. It’s also highly potent — as little as 0.3 ounces of grapes per your dog’s body weight could be enough to cause serious problems.2 Keep all grape-based food products away from your dog, and make sure friends and family know to do the same.
How to recognize grape poisoning
If your dog does ingest grapes, these are the symptoms to look out for:
● Vomiting
● Diarrhea
● Exhaustion
● Lethargy
● Anorexia
● Increased thirst
● Increased urination (or anuria, the cessation of urination)
● Dehydration
● Mouth ulcers
● Seizures
● Coma
Symptoms typically develop within 24 hours of ingestion. Within 48 hours, your dog may go into acute kidney failure, identifiable by abdominal pain, nausea, and a fishy odor.2
What to do if your dog eats grapes
If you observe any of the above symptoms and suspect your dog may have eaten grapes, take them to the vet right away. The vet may want to induce vomiting in an attempt to purge any undigested grape remnants. They also may want to keep your dog for monitoring in case their condition worsens.
Unfortunately, there is no antidote to grape poisoning. However, your vet may prescribe activated charcoal to minimize absorption of toxins in your dog’s digestive tract.
These Violet Delights
Grapes have been enjoyed by humans for millennia, but dogs should avoid them at all costs. Grape poisoning works fast and can quickly turn fatal. Take steps to keep grapes and grape-based products away from your pooch. If the worst should happen, contact your vet as soon as possible.
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