Are grapes toxic for dogs?

Toxic foods for dogs - the complete list

What dogs should never eat

Max watches with big eyes when you eat grapes. Biscuit sidles up to the kitchen table, curious. Some foods that are completely harmless for us humans can be life-threatening for dogs. This list gives you a complete overview - and explains why.

Grapes and raisins: kidney failure even in small amounts

Yes, grapes are highly toxic to dogs. So are raisins, currants and grape products. Exactly what triggers the toxic effect isn't fully understood yet - but the consequences are clear: acute kidney failure.

Especially dangerous: even small amounts can be enough. There is no known 'safe' dose. A small dog that eats a few raisins can be at serious risk. Call your vet or nearest veterinary clinic immediately.

Other toxic foods

Chocolate and cocoa: theobromine poisoning. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are especially dangerous. Symptoms: vomiting, heart rhythm problems, seizures.

Xylitol (birch sugar): found in sugar-free chewing gum, some baked goods and toothpastes. It causes dangerous low blood sugar and liver failure in dogs. Even small amounts can be fatal.

Onions, garlic, leek, chives: all allium plants damage red blood cells and can lead to anaemia. This also applies to powdered forms in seasoning mixes.

Macadamia nuts: cause weakness, fever, tremors and vomiting in dogs. The mechanism is unknown, but the toxicity is well documented.

Avocado: the flesh contains persin - toxic to dogs in larger amounts. Avoid avocado products.

Alcohol: dogs are extremely sensitive to ethanol. Even small amounts can lead to unconsciousness and death.

Raw bread and yeast dough: expands in the stomach and produces alcohol through fermentation - a double danger.

Caffeine: coffee, tea and energy drinks - a racing heart, seizures, dangerous.

What to do in an emergency

If you suspect poisoning, call your vet or nearest veterinary clinic immediately, or an animal poison helpline. Write down what your dog ate, how much, and when. Don't try to make your dog vomit yourself - in some cases that does more harm than good.

When in doubt: better to call once too often than to act once too little.