Is Xylitol Bad for Dogs? How Much is Toxic?

As responsible pet owners, it's crucial to understand the potential dangers that certain substances can pose to our furry friends. Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products that has gained popularity in recent years. In this blog post, we'll answer the question, is xylitol bad for dogs? We'll also investigate how much of it is toxic to our four-legged companions.

What is Xylitol?

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that's extracted from certain plants, including various fruits and vegetables. It's become a popular sugar substitute during recent years due to its low glycemic index and dental benefits for humans. It's found in many products, and the number is ever-increasing.

Is Xylitol Bad for Dogs?

Xylitol is bad for dogs, in fact it's extremely toxic, and can make them seriously ill, or worse. Xylitol poisoning can be FATAL for dogs.

How Much Xylitol is Toxic for Dogs?

According to National Library of Medicine, a dog that ingests any amount greater than 0.1 g/kg of xylitol is at risk of developing hypoglycemia, and more than 0.5 g/kg can lead to acute liver failure.

We highly recommend you never give your dog anything that contains xylitol.

Common Xylitol-Containing Products

Some common products that contain xylitol include:

1. Sugar-free gum
2. Sugar-free candy, mints, and chocolate 
3. Peanut butter
4. Cookies and desserts
5. Oral hygiene products (only ever clean your dog's teeth using toothpaste made for dogs, or make your own)
6. Medications and supplements

What are the Symptoms of Xylitol Poisoning?

Signs of xylitol poisoning can include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• Difficulty standing
• Shaking or seizures
• Collapse

What to Do if Your Dog Eats a Product Containing Xylitol

If you suspect that your dog has ingested xylitol or exhibits any unusual symptoms, it's VITAL to act swiftly. Contact your vet, animal clinic, or pet poison advice line such as Pet Poison Helpline immediately. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance, as it may worsen the situation. 

Prevention is Key

Preventing xylitol poisoning in dogs is essential for their safety. Here are some preventative measures:

Look at Ingredients

Be vigilant and check product labels for the list of ingredients. 

Store products safely

Keep all items containing xylitol out of your dog's reach, ideally in closed cabinets or on high shelves.

Train your dog basic commands

Teach your dog basic obedience commands, including "leave it" and "drop it." This training can be lifesaving in preventing accidental ingestion.

Help to raise awareness

Firstly, ensure everyone in your household and guests are aware of the dangers of xylitol and the importance of keeping it away from your dog.

It's also beneficial to spread the word even further of the dangers, as the more people are aware of the toxicity, the less dogs are likely to suffer from xylitol poisoning. Raise awareness through word of mouth, social media, and so on. US Food and Drug Administration has an informative printable poster that can be displayed in prominent areas of a workplace.

It's important to be aware of what is safe for your pooch to eat and what foods they should avoid. Xylitol is extremely toxic for dogs. By understanding the risks associated with it and implementing preventive measures, we can help protect our dogs from this hidden danger. Try making your own dog biscuits if you want to know exactly what's going into their treats - our dog hand towels make excellent baking accessories!