Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs

Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs: Is Your Sugar-Free Stash Putting Your Pet at Risk?

At Veterinary Specialist Services, we’ve been seeing cases of xylitol toxicity through our emergency departments, and we want pet owners to know just how dangerous this common sugar substitute can be.

A curious dog getting into a packet of sugar-free gum can quickly become a life-threatening emergency. 

What is xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is safe for humans but can be extremely toxic to dogs. It may also be listed as birch sugar or wood sugar on ingredient labels.

When a dog ingests xylitol, it can trigger a rapid and massive release of insulin, causing blood sugar to drop dangerously low (hypoglycaemia). In some cases, xylitol ingestion can also result in severe liver injury or liver failure.

Where might xylitol be hiding?

Xylitol can be found in more products than you might expect, including: