Is Xylitol Poisonous to Dogs?

The toxic compound in xylitol:

• Xylitol (a sugar alcohol / polyol used as a sugar substitute)

If your dog ate xylitol, watch for:

• •Vomiting
• •Weakness
• •Ataxia (loss of coordination)
• •Lethargy
• •Tremors
• •Seizures
• •Coma
• •Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), often within 30-60 minutes
• •Jaundice (icterus) from liver injury
• •Bleeding disorders / low blood platelet count
• •Acute liver failure (typically 24-48 hours post-ingestion)

How much xylitol is dangerous for a dog?

Very little. Per the Merck Veterinary Manual, doses above roughly 100 mg/kg can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), and doses above about 500 mg/kg can cause liver injury. A single piece of sugar-free gum can contain enough xylitol to poison a small dog, so any known ingestion should be treated as an emergency.

What are the first signs of xylitol poisoning in dogs?

Signs of hypoglycemia often appear within 30-60 minutes (sometimes delayed up to 12-18 hours): vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, lethargy, tremors, and in severe cases seizures or coma. Some dogs skip the hypoglycemic phase and progress directly to liver injury, with jaundice and bleeding appearing 24-48 hours later.

Where is xylitol commonly hidden?

Sugar-free chewing gum is the most common source reported to Pet Poison Helpline, but xylitol is also found in sugar-free candy, breath mints, some peanut butters, baked goods, toothpaste, certain supplements, and some pharmaceuticals. Always check ingredient labels before giving a dog any 'sugar-free' or 'reduced-sugar' human product.

• Merck Veterinary Manual - Xylitol Toxicosis in Dogs
• VCA Animal Hospitals - Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs

Last updated 2026-06-25