Raisins, sultanas, and currants are toxic and must never be given to dogs. Dried apricots and dried cranberries are safer but high in sugar; avoid entirely if possible.
Why Dried Fruit Needs Caution
Different dried fruits pose different risks:
Raisins, sultanas, and currants are highly toxic: These contain unknown compounds that cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic mechanism is not fully understood, but even small amounts (1–2 fruits for small dogs) can trigger severe, potentially fatal kidney damage within 48–72 hours.
No safe threshold identified: Unlike other toxins, there is no safe dose of raisins/sultanas for dogs. Individual sensitivity varies dramatically; some dogs develop kidney failure from a single raisin, while others may tolerate more. This unpredictability makes them absolutely non-negotiable to avoid.
Dried apricots, dates, and figs: These are safer than raisins but extremely high in natural sugars (15–25 grams per serving). High sugar intake causes obesity, diabetes, pancreatitis, and dental decay. Choking risk is also higher due to the sticky texture.
Dried mango, pineapple, and papaya: These are lower in toxins but still high in fibre and sugar. Large amounts cause digestive upset and diarrhoea.
Mix-ins and added sweeteners: Many dried fruit products contain added sugar, honey, or xylitol (in "sugar-free" varieties), all of which are dangerous.
Never give your dog raisins, sultanas, currants, or any grape-based dried fruit under any circumstances. Check ingredient lists on all baked goods, granola bars, and trail mix—these often contain hidden raisins. Even a single raisin can poison a small dog.
How Much Dried Fruit Can Dogs Eat?
RAISINS, SULTANAS, CURRANTS: Zero amount safe—avoid entirely.
Dried apricots: Small dogs: zero (avoid). Medium dogs: maximum 1 small piece once per month. Large dogs: maximum 2 small pieces once per month (not recommended).
Dried cranberries: Small dogs: 1–2 berries once per week. Medium dogs: 3–5 berries once per week. Large dogs: 5–8 berries once per week. Only if dog tolerates without vomiting/diarrhoea.
Dried mango, pineapple, papaya: Similar to dried apricots—very limited amounts, once per month maximum.
Dogs with pancreatitis, diabetes, or kidney disease: Avoid all dried fruit entirely.
How to Serve Safely (Not Recommended)
Dried fruit is not recommended for dogs. If you choose to offer safe varieties:
- Avoid raisins, sultanas, currants entirely. Check all packaged foods for these.
- Choose dried apricots or cranberries only. Verify no added sugar or xylitol.
- Offer tiny pieces. Cut dried fruit into quarters or smaller.
- Soak in water first. Soften dried fruit for 30 minutes to reduce choking risk and improve digestibility.
- Offer occasionally only. Once per month maximum; they provide minimal nutritional benefit.
- Monitor digestion. Watch for diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort within 4 hours.
Better alternatives:
- Fresh apricots (pit removed), small amounts
- Fresh cranberries (very small amounts due to tartness)
- Banana slices (low sugar fruits are preferable)
If you want to offer a dried fruit treat, dried apple or dried pear (unsweetened) are safer choices than stone fruits. However, fresh fruit is always preferable to dried.
When to Avoid Dried Fruit
Do not give dried fruit if your dog:
- Has kidney disease or has previously consumed raisins/sultanas
- Has pancreatitis or diabetes
- Is prone to obesity or digestive upset
- Is a puppy (under 6 months) with developing kidneys
- Is a senior dog (over 10 years) with compromised kidney function
- Has a history of choking or difficulty chewing
Symptoms to Watch For
After consuming raisins/sultanas (12–72 hours):
- Within 12 hours: Vomiting, diarrhoea (often bloody), loss of appetite, lethargy
- Within 24–48 hours: Abdominal pain (hunched posture, whining), anorexia, depression, decreased urine output
- Within 48–72 hours: Severe kidney dysfunction, oliguria (minimal urination), uraemia (kidney failure), dehydration, rapid deterioration
- After 72 hours: Acute renal failure, potential death without treatment
After consuming dried apricots/other safe varieties (within 4 hours):
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
If your dog ate raisins/sultanas, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately—do not wait for symptoms. Early veterinary intervention significantly improves survival rates. Bring the raisin package or label to the vet.
SafeBowl checks any food in seconds—personalised to your dog's breed, weight, and allergies. Download SafeBowl free.