Dogs love to snack on just about anything, and as a pet owner, it’s important to keep a watchful eye on what they’re eating. Grapes, however, are one food item that should never make it into your dog’s mouth. While grapes may seem harmless to humans, they can cause serious harm to your pet. In this article, we’ll explore the dangers of grapes for your dog, signs of grape poisoning, and what to do if your dog eats a grape.
What makes grapes dangerous for dogs?
Although the exact toxin in grapes that causes harm to dogs is still unknown, veterinarians have reported cases of kidney failure in dogs that have ingested grapes or raisins. In some instances, even a small amount of grapes can cause problems for dogs.
Signs of grape poisoning
If your dog has eaten grapes, it’s important to keep an eye out for the following symptoms of grape poisoning:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration
What to do if your dog eats a grape
If you think your dog has eaten grapes, take them to the vet immediately. The vet may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to reduce the absorption of any toxins. It’s important to seek professional help as soon as possible, as the sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of a successful outcome.
What other foods are toxic to dogs?
Grapes aren’t the only food item that can pose a danger to your dog. Other foods to be mindful of include:
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Avocado
- Onions and garlic
- Nuts, especially macadamia nuts
- Xylitol, a sweetener commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy
What should I do if my dog eats something toxic?
If you suspect that your dog has eaten something toxic, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to reduce the absorption of toxins, depending on what your dog has ingested.
How can I prevent my dog from eating toxic foods?
There are several ways you can prevent your dog from eating toxic foods:
- Keep all toxic foods out of reach of your dog, including on countertops and in trash cans
- Be mindful of what you’re feeding your dog, and check the ingredients of any dog food or treats you give them
- Don’t share your human food with your dog, as many dogs will beg for food and can accidentally ingest something toxic
- Train your dog to only eat things you give them, and supervise them while they’re eating
What if my dog already has kidney disease?
If your dog already has kidney disease, it’s especially important to avoid giving them grapes or raisins. While grapes may not necessarily cause kidney disease, they can worsen existing conditions and cause severe health problems for your dog.
Conclusion
Grapes may seem like a harmless snack for humans, but for dogs, they can be incredibly dangerous. If your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. In addition to grapes, there are several other foods that can be toxic to dogs, so as a pet owner, it’s important to be mindful of what your furry friend is eating.
Common Questions
Can one grape hurt my dog?
Yes, even a small amount of grapes can be harmful to your dog, and can cause kidney failure in severe cases.
What if my dog only ate a small amount of grapes?
While small amounts of grapes may not necessarily cause harm to your dog, it’s better to be safe than sorry and take them to the vet as soon as possible to be assessed.
What other symptoms should I look out for if my dog ate grapes?
In addition to vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, you should also look out for signs of dehydration, such as dry gums and excessive thirst. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately.
Can dogs eat any type of grapes?
No, dogs should not eat any type of grape, including organic and seedless grapes.
Can raisins be just as harmful as grapes?
Yes, raisins can be just as harmful as grapes and can cause kidney failure in dogs.
What if my dog already has kidney problems?
If your dog already has kidney problems, it’s especially important to avoid giving them grapes or raisins, as they can worsen existing conditions and cause severe health problems for your dog.
References
American Kennel Club. (2021, July 21). Are Grapes Bad For Dogs? https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-grapes/
ASPCA. (n.d.). People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
Merck Veterinary Manual. (n.d.). Grape and Raisin Toxicity. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/food-hazards/grape-and-raisin-toxicity