Dog ate something?StrawberriesBananasApplesBlueberriesSee all: Can dogs eat?All breeds A to ZBreed selectorCompare two breedsSee all: BreedsCan my dog eat it?Dog food calculatorChocolate calculatorDog name generatorSee all: ToolsGuides

Xylitol and dogs

By Your Dog Magazine editors · Updated · How we check

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is harmless to people and dangerous to dogs. If your dog ate something sugar-free, call your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 now.

What it does

In dogs, xylitol can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and, later, liver damage. Early signs include vomiting, lethargy and loss of coordination, which can progress to seizures. Liver damage can show within 12 to 24 hours.

Where it hides

  • Sugar-free gum and mints
  • Sugar-free candy and baked goods
  • Some peanut butters: check the label before every jar (peanut butter)
  • Some "light" yogurts and desserts

Source: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, "People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets". Checked October 17, 2026.

Questions from dog owners

Got a question about Xylitol and dogs? Ask it here. We answer the useful ones on this page.

Ask a question

We can’t reply privately. Useful questions get answered here on the page.

Keep reading

Holiday foods dogs can't eatWhich Thanksgiving and Christmas foods are dangerous for dogs: turkey bones, ham, fatty scraps, stu…My dog ate chocolateDog ate chocolate? What to do right now, the symptoms, and how much is dangerous by chocolate type,…Foods dogs can't eatThe foods that are toxic or dangerous for dogs, from grapes and chocolate to xylitol, onions and ma…What fruits can dogs eat?Every common fruit checked for dogs: which are safe, which need small portions, and which are toxic…What vegetables can dogs eat?Which vegetables are safe for dogs, which to limit, and which are toxic, from carrots and green bea…My dog ate grapes or raisinsDog ate grapes or raisins? Why they cause kidney failure, why no amount is known to be safe, and wh…

Newsletter

One useful dog email a week

Food safety, feeding and breed answers, checked against vet sources. Plus seasonal warnings, like holiday foods to keep away from dogs.

Free. Unsubscribe any time. We never share your email. Privacy.