Can dogs eat sultanas?

No — extremely toxic

No. Sultanas are dried grapes and carry the same severe kidney toxicity. Found in many UK baked goods — hot cross buns, mince pies, fruit cake, Christmas pudding.

The full picture

Sultanas, along with raisins and currants, are dried grapes and share the tartaric acid toxicity that can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. Because they are dried and concentrated, sultanas are gram-for-gram more toxic than fresh grapes. Toxicity is unpredictable — some dogs react to tiny amounts, others eat more and appear fine — so every ingestion should be treated as an emergency. Sultanas are common in UK baking: hot cross buns, mince pies, fruit cake, Christmas pudding, scones, teacakes, spotted dick, bread pudding, and Eccles cakes.

If your dog has eaten sultanas

Call your vet immediately — this is an emergency. Inducing vomiting in the first 2 hours is often recommended. Do not wait for symptoms.

Risks to watch for

  • Acute kidney failure
  • Vomiting
  • Lethargy
  • Reduced urination
  • Can be fatal without prompt treatment

Safe portion size

None.

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Safer alternatives

  • Blueberries
  • Apple slices (core removed)
  • Banana pieces

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

One emergency visit for food poisoning can cost £500–£5,000+. Compare UK pet insurance in 60 seconds.

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Related foods

Raisins no Grapes no Currants no
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

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Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.