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🐾Is It Safe?

Can my dog eat Xylitol?

⚠️

Do not feed

TOXIC — causes severe hypoglycemia and liver failure.

DANGER

Veterinary emergency

If your dog ate this, call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 or go to your nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.

What this means

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free products, some peanut butters, gum, and candy. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and can cause liver failure. It is extremely toxic even in tiny amounts.

Key compound:Xylitol

Symptoms to watch for

vomitingweaknessloss of coordinationseizuresliver failurecollapse

Note for medium dogs (20–60 lbs)

Any exposure is an emergency. Contact ASPCA Poison Control immediately.

Reviewed against

ASPCA Poison ControlAKCFDA

For reference only — not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog's health.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat Xylitol?▼
No, dogs should not eat Xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in sugar-free products, some peanut butters, gum, and candy. It causes a rapid drop in blood sugar and can cause liver failure. It is extremely toxic even in tiny amounts.
My dog ate Xylitol, what should I do?▼
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms. Possible symptoms include: vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, seizures, liver failure, collapse.
How much Xylitol is toxic to a dog?▼
Even small amounts of Xylitol can be harmful to dogs due to Xylitol. The toxicity depends on the dog's size and how much was consumed. Contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance specific to your situation.
Is Xylitol poisonous to puppies?▼
Yes, Xylitol is especially dangerous to puppies because they are smaller and their bodies are still developing. Puppies may experience more severe symptoms than adult dogs. Contact a veterinarian immediately if a puppy consumes Xylitol.
Does my dog’s size matter when eating Xylitol?▼

Small dogs: Extremely dangerous for small dogs — even trace amounts can be fatal.

Medium dogs: Any exposure is an emergency. Contact ASPCA Poison Control immediately.

Large dogs: Still highly dangerous despite larger body mass. Seek immediate veterinary care.

Other danger foods

🍫Chocolate🍇Grapes🍇Grape🍇Raisins🥑Avocado

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