🍬
Can Dogs Eat Xylitol?
Verdict
Toxic — do not feed
Why it is toxic
In dogs, xylitol triggers a rapid release of insulin, which can cause a sudden, dangerous drop in blood sugar (hypoglycaemia). Some dogs also develop severe liver damage. It is harmless to people, which is why it turns up in so many household products. On labels it may also appear as birch sugar, wood sugar or birch bark extract.
Symptoms to watch for
Signs can start within 30 minutes to a couple of hours: vomiting, weakness, wobbliness, collapse and seizures. Liver damage can follow later. Treat any suspected ingestion as an emergency — don't wait for symptoms, and don't make your dog sick unless a vet tells you to.
Xylitol for dogs at a glance
| Verdict | Toxic — do not feed |
|---|---|
| How much | None — don't feed it. |
| If your dog eats it | Call your vet now (UK: Animal PoisonLine, 01202 509000). Don't wait for symptoms. |
Sources
Always consult your vet. If your dog has eaten something you're worried about — or shows any unusual symptoms — call your veterinarian immediately. In the UK, pet owners can also call Animal PoisonLine (run by the Veterinary Poisons Information Service) on 01202 509000, a 24-hour paid triage service. This page is editorial guidance, not emergency advice for an individual animal.
Frequently asked questions
Related foods
See also
Get one plain-English dog nutrition email a month
New safe-food checks, feeding guides and seasonal hazards. No ads, no affiliate links.