CautionVet Reviewedsweetener

Can Dogs Eat Erythritol? Caution — Safer Than Xylitol But Not Recommended

This food requires caution. Read the details carefully before feeding.

Erythritol is one of the safer sugar alcohols for dogs — it does not cause the same liver toxicity as xylitol. However it still causes mild digestive upset in large amounts.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Mild digestive upset: vomiting and diarrhea in large amounts — much milder than other sugar alcohols.

If Your Dog Ate This

Monitor for digestive upset. Lower risk than xylitol but call vet if large amount consumed.

What to Avoid

large amounts, intentional feeding

Preparation & Serving

Never give intentionally. Monitor for mild digestive upset if in low-sugar product.

Did you know?

Erythritol occurs naturally in small amounts in many fermented foods including beer wine cheese and soy sauce. Unlike most sugar alcohols 90% of consumed erythritol is absorbed in the small intestine before reaching the colon which is why it causes far less digestive upset than sorbitol or maltitol.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog)
never intentionally
Serving (medium dog)
never intentionally
Serving (large dog)
never intentionally
Calories (per 100g)
20
Safe frequency
Never intentionally

Source

Source: AKC

What You Need to Know

Erythritol does not appear to cause the dangerous hypoglycemia and liver toxicity that xylitol causes in dogs. However it still causes digestive upset in large amounts and should not be deliberately fed. Increasingly used as a xylitol replacement in many products.

This food requires care — if your dog has eaten a large amount read our emergency guide

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety quiz to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety quiz

Related Foods

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.