Can Dogs Eat Xylitol?
Xylitol (also called birch sugar) is extremely toxic to dogs, even in very small amounts. It is found in sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, toothpaste, and baked goods. Ingestion requires immediate emergency veterinary care.
📋Nutrition Notes
A sugar alcohol used as an artificial sweetener. In dogs, it causes a rapid, massive release of insulin leading to life-threatening hypoglycemia.
🥄Serving Guidance
No safe amount. Even a few pieces of xylitol-containing gum can be fatal to a small dog. Always check ingredient labels for xylitol, birch sugar, or sugar alcohol.
⚠️Risks to Know
Can cause hypoglycemia within 10–60 minutes, leading to vomiting, weakness, seizures, liver failure, and death. As little as 0.1 g/kg body weight can cause hypoglycemia.
Emergency Contact
If your dog has eaten xylitol, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Sources
FDA Pet Safety Alert • ASPCA Animal Poison Control • Merck Veterinary Manual