Xylitol: The Hidden Poison That Can Harm Your Dog
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What every dog parent needs to know to keep their pup safe.
Most pet parents know that chocolate, grapes, raisins, garlic, and onions can harm dogs. But there’s another danger hiding in everyday products—one far less obvious but just as deadly. It’s a sweetener called xylitol, also known as birch sugar. And I learned about its dangers the hard way.
My Scary Accident – And What It Taught Me
Toothbrushing is a twice-daily routine for my pup, Christopher. He loves it—especially his poultry-flavored toothpaste. A few nights ago, while working late, I accidentally grabbed my toothpaste instead of his. I put just a tiny amount on his brush and started brushing. He immediately turned his head away, and that’s when I realized what I had done.
I panicked.
I washed his toothbrush, brushed again with his correct toothpaste, and called our local 24-hour animal hospital. They advised me to call poison control while they prepared for a possible emergency visit.
The wait felt like forever.
A poison control specialist quickly gathered details—how much toothpaste I used, the brand, Christopher’s age, breed, medications, and weight. Then she checked the ingredients on my prescription toothpaste.
Minutes later, she returned with good news: my toothpaste did not contain xylitol. The ingredient it did contain was less dangerous, and the tiny amount I had used was unlikely to harm him. She told me what to monitor for over 24 hours, gave me a case number, and assured me that I could go to the ER with confidence if anything changed.
The call cost $75, but the peace of mind was priceless.
Thankfully, Christopher never showed symptoms. This close call pushed me to learn everything I could about xylitol. What I found shocked me, and I hope sharing it will prevent any pet parent from going through the same fear.
What Is Xylitol?
Xylitol is a sugar alcohol originally derived from birch bark and often labeled as birch sugar. Today, it’s mass-produced from corncob remnants, making it inexpensive and widely used.
For people, xylitol has several benefits:
⦿ Helps prevent tooth decay
⦿ Kills harmful mouth bacteria
⦿ Creates a cooling sensation in oral and nasal products
⦿ Has a low glycemic index
⦿ Retains moisture in cosmetics and skin care
⦿ Provides sweetness with fewer calories than sugar
Because of these advantages, xylitol is used in many everyday products—from gum to toothpaste to lotions.
But what’s beneficial for humans can be deadly for dogs.
Why Xylitol Is Toxic to Dogs
Dogs absorb xylitol much faster than humans. This rapid absorption triggers a powerful release of insulin from the pancreas, causing a dangerous drop in blood sugar known as hypoglycemia. Symptoms can begin within 10–60 minutes.
In higher doses, xylitol can also cause acute liver failure, internal bleeding, seizures, and death.
This is a true medical emergency. Time matters.
Symptoms of Xylitol Poisoning
The first sign is usually vomiting. As blood sugar drops, additional symptoms may include:
⦿ Lethargy
⦿ Weakness
⦿ Trembling
⦿ Loss of coordination
⦿ Staggering or collapse
⦿ Seizures
⦿ Coma
⦿ Liver failure
Any of these symptoms require immediate action.
What Foods and Products Contain Xylitol?
Xylitol is hidden in a surprising number of foods, medications, and household products.
Medications & Personal Care
⦿ Melatonin
⦿ Liquid prescription medicines
⦿ Gummy vitamins
⦿ Cough syrups
⦿ Mouthwash & breath fresheners
⦿ Toothpaste
⦿ Dental floss
⦿ Lip balm
⦿ Cosmetics and skincare
⦿ Baby wipes and diapers
⦿ Deodorant
Foods & Treats
⦿ Chewing gum
⦿ Candy
⦿ Sugar-free chocolate
⦿ Drink mixes
⦿ Sugar-free yogurt
⦿ Ice cream
⦿ Peanut butter
⦿ Pancake syrup
⦿ Ketchup and BBQ sauce
⦿ Baked goods
⦿ Jam & jelly
⦿ Cereal
⦿ Pudding or Jell-O
⦿ Protein bars
Always read labels—xylitol can hide under many names.
Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?
Safe peanut butter should contain one ingredient: peanuts.
Look for:
⦿ Organic
⦿ No salt
⦿ No sugar
⦿ No additives
⦿ Absolutely no xylitol
Do not assume a brand is always safe—recipes change. Check every jar before giving it to your dog.
How to Prevent Xylitol Poisoning
⦿ Always read ingredient labels.
⦿ Look for “xyl” in any sweeteners.
⦿ Store toothpaste, skincare, gum, and food items out of reach.
⦿ Never use human toothpaste for pets.
⦿ Keep purses, backpacks, and gym bags off the floor.
⦿ Take medications in a closed room so dropped pills can be retrieved safely.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Xylitol
Call immediately:
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
📞 888-426-4435
They’re available 24/7 and will guide you step-by-step. A consultation fee may apply.
Do not induce vomiting or apply home remedies unless advised by poison control or your veterinarian. Incorrect treatment can worsen the situation.
How Vets Treat Xylitol Toxicity
Depending on how much xylitol was consumed, treatment may involve:
⦿ Hospitalization
⦿ Continuous blood sugar monitoring
⦿ IV dextrose (sugar)
⦿ Liver protectants
⦿ Blood clotting support
⦿ Blood transfusions in severe cases
Early and aggressive treatment greatly improves outcomes.
Your Homework as a Pet Parent
Walk around your home and read product labels. You may be surprised at how many everyday items contain xylitol. Make a mental note of what is dangerous and ensure all items are stored safely and securely.
Important Resources
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Phone: (888) 426-4435
https://www.aspca.org/
FDA Consumer Guide on Xylitol
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/paws-xylitol-its-dangerous-dogs