Is Xylitol Toxic to Dogs?
Xylitol (also labeled as birch sugar or E967) is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) within 10-60 minutes.
What Makes Xylitol (Birch Sugar) Dangerous to Dogs?
Xylitol (also labeled as birch sugar or E967) is an artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause a rapid, life-threatening drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) within 10-60 minutes. Larger doses can cause acute liver failure within 12-72 hours. Xylitol is found in hundreds of consumer products including sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, toothpaste, and baked goods.
Toxic Agent
Xylitol (birch sugar, E967)
Common Sources
- •Sugar-free gum (most common source — a single piece can be toxic)
- •Sugar-free candy, mints, and breath fresheners
- •Some peanut butter brands (check labels carefully)
- •Toothpaste and mouthwash
- •Sugar-free baked goods and protein bars
- •Certain vitamins, supplements, and medications
Symptoms of Xylitol (Birch Sugar) Poisoning in Dogs
Mild Symptoms
- ▸Vomiting
- ▸Weakness and lethargy
- ▸Difficulty walking or standing (ataxia)
Moderate Symptoms
- ▸Dangerously low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- ▸Tremors and disorientation
- ▸Rapid heart rate
Severe / Emergency
- ▸Seizures from severe hypoglycemia
- ▸Acute liver failure (12-72 hours post-ingestion)
- ▸Internal bleeding (coagulopathy) and death
What to Do If Your Dog Is Exposed to Xylitol (Birch Sugar)
- 1
Remove any remaining product from your dog's reach.
- 2
Check the product label for xylitol content (mg per piece/serving).
- 3
Do NOT induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian.
- 4
If your dog is weak or trembling, rub a small amount of corn syrup or honey on their gums.
- 5
Use VetGeni's free toxin checker for immediate guidance.
- 6
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately — this is a true emergency.
When to See the Vet
Any xylitol ingestion requires immediate emergency veterinary care. Hypoglycemia can occur within 10-60 minutes and can be fatal. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
Prognosis
Good with immediate treatment for hypoglycemia alone. If liver failure develops (typically with doses >0.5 g/kg), prognosis is guarded. Early aggressive treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Check Xylitol (Birch Sugar) Toxicity for Your Pet
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How much xylitol is toxic to dogs?
- Hypoglycemia can occur at doses as low as 0.1 g/kg (about 0.5 grams for a 10 lb dog). Liver failure risk increases at doses above 0.5 g/kg. A single piece of sugar-free gum can contain 0.3-1.0 grams of xylitol — enough to be dangerous for small dogs.
- Is xylitol toxic to cats?
- Cats appear to be much less sensitive to xylitol than dogs, and clinical cases of xylitol toxicity in cats are extremely rare. However, it is still best to keep xylitol products away from all pets.
- What peanut butter brands contain xylitol?
- Several brands have used xylitol, including some "sugar-free" or "no sugar added" varieties. Always check the ingredient list for xylitol, birch sugar, or E967 before giving peanut butter to your dog. Most major brands (Jif, Skippy, Peter Pan) do not contain xylitol.
Related Pet Toxins
Emergency? Call Poison Control
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Reviewed by Dr. Christopher Tiller, DVM — Emergency Veterinarian & VetGeni Founder. This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional veterinary care. Always consult a veterinarian for specific medical advice.