health
Can Dogs Eat Raisins? NZ Safety Answer
13 June 2026
Can dogs eat raisins in NZ? No. Raisins, sultanas and currants are unsafe for dogs and can damage kidneys.
Quick answer
No. Dogs should not eat raisins, sultanas, currants or foods that contain dried vine fruit. Treat raisin exposure as a vet-call situation, not a wait-and-see treat mistake.
Why
Pet Poison Helpline lists grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants as toxic to dogs, with stomach upset followed by kidney injury. ASPCA's people-foods list also groups grapes and raisins among foods to avoid for pets, and VCA's fruit-and-vegetable guidance tells owners to avoid raisins. In NZ homes, likely sources include lunchboxes, trail mix, muesli, hot cross buns, Christmas cake, fruit mince pies, cereal and baking scraps.
If your dog ate it
Contact your NZ vet, after-hours emergency clinic, or SPCA for advice, especially if the food contained a known toxin or your pet seems unwell.
Safer alternatives
Safer options are your dog's normal complete food, a dog-safe treat, or a plain prepared food already covered by a reliable pet-safe source. Keep human leftovers, sauces and seasoned scraps out of reach.
Related reading
References
- Pet Poison Helpline, Grapes, checked 2026-06-13: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/grapes/
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, checked 2026-06-13: https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/aspca-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
- VCA Animal Hospitals, Can you feed pets certain fruits and veggies, checked 2026-06-13: https://vcahospitals.com/resources/preventive-dog/nutrition/can-you-feed-pets-certain-fruits-and-veggies
Important notice
*General food-safety information for NZ pet owners, reviewed against ASPCA/VCA/SPCA guidance.*
Free PetMall tools
Related guides
petmall.co.nz
Shop at PetMall
The products below are practical support items for your pet. PetMall ships across New Zealand.
- Dog FoodStart with food that matches your dog's life stage and activity level — and change brands slowly over 7–10 days.
- Dog TreatsTraining rewards and everyday treats — small, soft pieces work best for consistent reinforcement.
- Dog ToysA small rotation of chew, fetch, and puzzle toys usually works better than buying a large variety at once.
- Dog GroomingA gentle brush and the right shampoo make maintenance easier — especially for dogs that get muddy on walks.
- Leads & HarnessesComfort matters: padded contact points and adjustable fit help reduce rubbing on longer walks or tramping weekends.
- Flea & Worm TreatmentFor NZ conditions, look for protection that fits your routine (monthly vs longer-lasting) and your dog's weight range.