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HomeFoodsSugar-Free Gum (Xylitol)
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Toxic: don't feed

Can Dogs EatSugar-Free Gum (Xylitol)?

Severity
9/10Dangerous at any amount
⚕️This page is pending review by a licensed veterinarian.
Check Sugar-Free Gum (Xylitol) for your dog

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Any amount of Sugar-Free Gum (Xylitol) is an emergency: call now

Why Sugar-Free Gum (Xylitol) is dangerous

Xylitol triggers a rapid insulin release in dogs, crashing blood sugar within 30-60 min (some gums delay onset up to 12h). Higher doses cause liver damage (hepatic necrosis).

Signs to watch for

Vomiting, weakness, wobbliness, lethargy, collapse, tremors, seizures. Later: jaundice, dark stool.

What to do next

Call poison control now. Have the package ready. Do not induce vomiting unless told to.

🚨Step-by-step: what to do in the first 10 minutes →
Animal poison control

FAQ

How much Sugar-Free Gum (Xylitol) is dangerous?

~0.1 g/kg body weight for hypoglycemia risk, ~0.5 g/kg for liver injury. Example: 11 lb dog ~0.5g hypoglycemia / ~2.5g liver risk; 22 lb ~1.0g / ~5g; 44 lb ~2.0g / ~10g. A single gum piece can contain 0.3-1g+ xylitol and brands rarely list the amount, so treat any ingestion as urgent.

Can I treat this at home?

Do not wait for symptoms. Do not attempt to calculate a 'safe' amount.

When should I call the vet?

Call poison control or your vet immediately, even if the dog seems fine.

Source: ASPCA APCC xylitol guidance; Pet Poison Helpline; Merck Veterinary Manual, xylitol toxicosis.
Medically reviewed by: [PENDING] (awaiting DVM review)
This page is a general reference and not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your dog is showing symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital.