Is xylitol toxic to dogs?
🚩 When to see a vet
- Your dog ate gum, mints, candy or any product that may contain xylitol
- Vomiting, tiredness or wobbly walking
- Seizures or collapse
In an emergency, call your vet or nearest emergency animal clinic.
🚨 Poison emergency: call now
- Trouble breathing
- Collapse
- Seizures
- Bloated belly or retching with nothing coming up
- Suspected poisoning (chocolate, xylitol, lilies for cats, grapes)
- Heavy bleeding
- Male cat straining to pee
- Pale gums
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 (a fee may apply)
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a fee applies)
Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (a fee applies)
Yes. Xylitol is a sugar free sweetener found in gum, mints, candy, baked goods, toothpaste and some vitamins. In dogs it can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar, sometimes within 10 to 15 minutes, and liver failure. If your dog eats anything with xylitol, call your vet or a pet poison hotline right away.
What the sources say
Xylitol is found in sugar free gum and mints, candy, puddings, sauces, syrups and jams, toothpaste, mouth rinses, chewable vitamins and other supplements, some nasal sprays and even makeup. [1]
The amount varies widely between products. Even different flavors of one gum brand can contain different amounts. [1]
If enough is eaten, xylitol can cause life threatening low blood sugar, sometimes within 10 to 15 minutes, and acute liver failure. [1]
Early warning signs are throwing up, low energy and unsteady walking. Seizures may follow. [2]
Liver damage can happen within 12 to 24 hours and can lead to abnormal bleeding. [2]
FAQ
How fast does xylitol work?
Fast. Pet Poison Helpline says blood sugar can drop within 10 to 15 minutes, so call as soon as you know.
Can I use my own toothpaste on my dog?
Some toothpastes contain xylitol, so use a pet toothpaste your vet recommends.
Sources
- Pet Poison Helpline: Xylitol, checked Oct 13, 2026
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control: People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets, checked Oct 13, 2026
We summarize these sources in our own words. Dosing or home treatment amounts are never given here. Ask your vet.
