Xylitol
DangerousXylitol is an artificial sweetener extremely toxic to dogs.
Toxicity Level
10/10Why It's Dangerous
Found in sugar-free gum, candy, and peanut butter. Can cause rapid insulin release and liver failure.
The Science
Xylitol (birch sugar / E967)Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as an artificial sweetener in sugar-free products. In dogs, xylitol triggers a massive and rapid release of insulin from the pancreas — up to 2.5-7x higher than the same amount of glucose would cause. This insulin surge causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) within 10-60 minutes of ingestion. At higher doses, xylitol causes direct hepatocellular necrosis (liver cell death) through an unknown mechanism, potentially leading to acute liver failure within 9-72 hours.
Sources
- •ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
- •Journal of Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- •Veterinary Clinics of North America — Small Animal Practice
Dosage & Thresholds
Hypoglycemia can occur at doses as low as 0.1g/kg body weight. Liver failure risk begins at 0.5g/kg. A single piece of sugar-free gum contains 0.3-1.0g of xylitol, meaning just 1-2 pieces could cause hypoglycemia in a 10kg dog. A pack of gum could be lethal. Always check ingredient labels for xylitol (also called birch sugar or E967).
Symptoms to Watch For
If your dog has ingested xylitol
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal poison hotline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a vet.
callFind Emergency Vet