Why it is dangerous for dogs
Xylitol, also sold as birch sugar, is a sweetener added to sugar-free chewing gum, sweets, baked goods, some nut butters and toothpaste. In a dog it triggers a sudden release of insulin, so the blood sugar level drops fast. It can also damage the liver.
The amount that causes harm differs from dog to dog and cannot be judged at home. Weakness can begin quickly, while liver damage may only show later.
If your dog ate anything containing xylitol, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if your dog seems well. Tell them what was eaten and when, and take the packaging with you.
What to watch out for
- Blood sugar drops suddenly: the dog becomes weak, staggers or collapses.
- Vomiting and dullness can follow.
- Seizures can develop.
- The liver can be damaged, and this sometimes shows only after a while.
- Xylitol turns up where you do not expect it: chewing gum, sweets, toothpaste, nut butters and baked goods, so always read the ingredients.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Blueberries Yes, blueberries and bilberries are fine for dogs: give a few washed, unsweetened berries as an occasional treat. Safe
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Watermelon Yes, watermelon is fine for dogs: give small pieces of flesh without seeds or rind, especially as a cooling treat on a hot day. Safe