Are Raisins Poisonous to Dogs?
Vitis vinifera (dried fruit) · Vitaceae
Highly ToxicAlso toxic to cats
Raisins are highly toxic to dogs.
Why it's toxic
The toxic compounds in raisins:
- Tartaric acid
- Potassium bitartrate (acid potassium salt of tartaric acid)
Symptoms to watch for
If your dog ate raisins, watch for:
- Vomiting (often within 6-12 hours of ingestion)
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Lethargy and weakness
- Abdominal pain
- Increased thirst (polydipsia) and increased urination (polyuria), followed by decreased or no urine production
- Dehydration
- Tremors
- Uremic (ammonia-smelling) breath
- Acute kidney injury / renal failure developing within 24-72 hours, which is frequently fatal once anuric (no urine) renal failure sets in
What to do if your dog ate it
- 1Remove your dog's access to the raisins and check how much may have been eaten.
- 2Do NOT induce vomiting unless a veterinarian or poison-control expert specifically tells you to.
- 3Call your veterinarian, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888) 426-4435, or the Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 right away.
- 4Note the amount eaten, the time, and your dog's weight and any symptoms — have this ready for the expert.
- 5Follow professional guidance and go to the nearest emergency vet if you are advised to.
A consultation fee may apply to the Pet Poison Helpline. When in doubt, contact your own veterinarian or nearest emergency clinic.
Frequently asked questions
- How many raisins are dangerous for a dog?
- There is no established safe amount. Per the Merck Veterinary Manual, more than one grape or raisin per 4.5 kg (10 lb) of body weight may contain enough tartaric acid to pose a risk, and because tartaric acid concentration varies widely (roughly 0.35-2%), toxicity is unpredictable. Raisins are more concentrated than fresh grapes, so even a small handful can be dangerous. Treat any ingestion as a potential emergency and call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).
- Why are raisins toxic to dogs?
- Research published by ASPCA toxicologists (2022) identified tartaric acid as the likely toxic agent in grapes, raisins, tamarinds, and cream of tartar. Dogs lack the organic anion transporters that other species use to excrete organic acids efficiently, so tartaric acid accumulates in the proximal renal tubular cells of the kidneys and causes acute kidney injury.
- What should I do if my dog ate raisins?
- Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately, even if your dog seems fine. Early decontamination and intravenous fluid therapy started before kidney damage appears greatly improve the outcome. Do not wait for symptoms, because once renal failure develops the prognosis is poor.
Sources
Related plants & foods
This page is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Toxicity can vary with the amount eaten, your dog's size, and individual sensitivity. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian or poison-control hotline immediately.