Can Dogs Eat Grapes?

Grapes are toxic to dogs and should be avoided at all costs. They contain tartaric acid, which can cause illness in dogs, and consuming them can lead to grape poisoning or grape toxicosis, which can result in vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, lethargy, increased thirst, kidney failure, and death. If a dog consumes grapes, it is important to seek veterinary assistance immediately. Treatment may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, and providing IV fluids. Hospitalization may also be necessary.

One of the most common questions pet owners ask is “can dogs have grapes?” While it may seem like a harmless snack for them, grapes are actually toxic for dogs and should be avoided at all costs. In this article, we will discuss why grapes are so dangerous for dogs and what other food options you may have as an alternative.

Why are grapes bad for dogs?

So, why can’t dogs eat grapes? It’s because grapes contain something called tartaric acid; a chemical that causes illness in dogs. How sick your dog gets after consuming tartaric acid (found in grapes, raisins, and sultanas) will depend on numerous factors, including:

• How many grapes were consumed
• The amount of tartaric acid present in the grapes; this varies depending on the type of grape, it’s origin, and ripeness
• The size and weight of your dog

What are the symptoms of grape poisoning in dogs?

Grape poisoning, or grape toxicosis, is a potentially deadly condition that affects dogs when they consume grapes and raisins. Symptoms of grape poisoning in dogs vary depending on the amount of grapes consumed and the size of the dog. In general, signs of grape poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, lethargy, and increased thirst. If untreated, grape poisoning can lead to more serious conditions such as kidney failure and even death.

What to do if your dog eats a grape or grapes

If you suspect that your dog has eaten grapes or raisins, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Your vet will be able to diagnose the condition and provide appropriate treatment. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, treatment may include inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal to absorb toxins in the stomach, and providing IV fluids to flush out any remaining toxic compounds. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Alternatives to grapes

Grapes may be a sweet snack for humans, but they are toxic for our beloved four-legged friends. That being said, it is important to understand what other food options you can offer as an alternative to grapes. While it is important to note that many dogs do not need snacks in their diet, offering them a variety of healthy treats is a great way to keep them happy.

Some examples of safe snacks for dogs include:

• Cooked chicken or turkey (without the bones)
• Apples
• Carrots
• Banana slices
• Plain, cooked oatmeal

Keep grapes away from your dog

Most of us consider our pets to be members of our family. As such, it is important to ensure that they are eating safe foods and avoiding potentially dangerous items. Grapes, raisins, and sultanas should all be avoided as they can cause serious illness in dogs. If you suspect your dog has eaten any of these fruits, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Sources:

American Kennel Club, Can Dogs Eat Grapes?, November 7th, 2022

pets.webmd.com, Why Dogs Can’t Eat Grapes, January 4th, 2022

pumpkin.care, Can Dogs Eat Grapes? The Evidence Screams A Loud No!, October 15th, 2022