✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07
Can dogs eat sultanas?
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 already eaten sultanas
Risks to watch for
- Acute kidney failure
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Reduced urination
- Can be fatal without prompt treatment
Safe portion size
None.
Safer alternatives
- Blueberries
- Apple slices (core removed)
- Banana pieces
While you're checking what your dog can safely eat, make sure their flea and worm protection is up to date too.
Common questions
What happens if a dog eats sultanas?
What are the symptoms of sultanas poisoning in dogs?
How much sultanas is toxic to dogs?
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