Can Dogs Eat Xylitol Gum? No — One Piece Can Be Fatal
This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.
Xylitol-containing gum is one of the most dangerous substances for dogs. A single piece can contain enough xylitol to cause fatal liver failure in a small dog.
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Warning Signs & Symptoms
Rapid hypoglycemia within 30 minutes. Liver failure within 24-72 hours. Vomiting, weakness, tremors, seizures, collapse, death.
If Your Dog Ate This
Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately. Life-threatening emergency.
What to Avoid
all sugar-free gum
Preparation & Serving
Call vet or emergency hospital IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait for symptoms.
Did you know?
Xylitol was first discovered in Finland in 1891 but only became commercially significant in the 1970s when Finnish research showed it prevented tooth decay. The same properties that make it beneficial for human dental health make it life-threatening for dogs.
Portions & nutrition
- Toxic dose (per kg body weight)
- 0.1g xylitol per kg causes hypoglycemia
- Serving (small dog)
- never
- Serving (medium dog)
- never
- Serving (large dog)
- never
- Calories (per 100g)
- 0
- Safe frequency
- Never
Source
What You Need to Know
Sugar-free gum contains some of the highest xylitol concentrations of any product. A single piece can contain 0.3-0.4g of xylitol — enough to seriously harm a 10kg dog. A pack of sugar-free gum left within reach is a life-threatening hazard.
Breed-Specific Notes
All dogs at risk — small dogs face acute toxicity from a single piece.
Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
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.
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