Xylitol and dogs: the hidden poison in sugar-free products

The short answer: Xylitol causes severe hypoglycemia and liver failure in dogs — doses as low as 50 mg/kg are toxic

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol sweetener found in sugar-free gum, candy, baked goods, peanut butter (some brands), toothpaste, nasal sprays, and "keto" products. In humans it is harmless. In dogs, it triggers a massive insulin release within 30 minutes, causing life-threatening hypoglycemia, and at higher doses causes acute liver necrosis. Cats appear less sensitive.

Toxic doses in dogs

• >50 mg/kg: hypoglycemia within 30–60 minutes
• >75–100 mg/kg: hepatotoxicity (acute liver failure)
• >500 mg/kg: frequently fatal without aggressive treatment

One piece of sugar-free gum contains about 0.3–1 g of xylitol. Depending on brand: just 1–2 pieces can cause hypoglycemia in a 10 kg dog.

Common sources to check

• Sugar-free gum (Orbit, Trident, Extra, etc.)
• Sugar-free mints and candies
• "Keto" baked goods, cookies
• Certain peanut butter brands (Nuts 'N More, Go Nuts Co, Krush Nutrition, P28) — always check the label before giving peanut butter to your dog
• Children's vitamins and chewable medications
• Toothpaste, mouthwash (xylitol is added for cavity prevention — don't share with pets)
• Medication syrups and cough drops
• Nasal sprays

Signs of xylitol poisoning

Within 30 minutes to a few hours:

• Hypoglycemia: weakness, lethargy, wobbliness, collapse, vomiting, seizures
• Delayed hepatotoxicity (may appear 24–72 hours after, even if initial hypoglycemia is treated): jaundice, clotting disorders, elevated liver enzymes