Sweeteners
Can dogs eat xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy)?
If your dog ate this, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately.
In dogs, xylitol triggers a sudden flood of insulin that can crash blood sugar within the hour, so any ingestion is a true emergency.
Toxic principle: xylitol-induced insulin surge (hypoglycemia)
Watch for
- vomiting
- weakness
- loss of coordination
- collapse
- seizures
- with larger ingestions, liver failure
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-12
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy)?
In dogs, xylitol triggers a sudden flood of insulin that can crash blood sugar within the hour, so any ingestion is a true emergency.
What should I do if my dog ate xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy)?
Contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
What symptoms should I watch for with xylitol (sugar-free gum/candy) and dogs?
vomiting, weakness, loss of coordination, collapse, seizures, with larger ingestions, liver failure. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian.
This page is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian about your pet's diet and health.
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