The Walking ClubShort answer: call your vet or a poison line right away, even if your dog acts normal. Xylitol can drop a dog's blood sugar fast and harm the liver.
The ASPCA says xylitol causes low blood sugar and liver injury in dogs. Low blood sugar can start as soon as 30 minutes after eating, or take up to 12 hours to appear. Signs include weakness, unsteadiness, shaking, and seizures if untreated. Liver injury may show as less appetite, lethargy, yellow skin, vomiting, and diarrhea, and may not appear for two or three days. For more on this, see Which foods are unsafe for dogs, and what should I do if mine ate one.
Check the product label for xylitol. If the item has it and your dog acts abnormal, go to a vet clinic immediately. If your dog seems normal, still call a poison line so they can judge whether the amount is dangerous. The amount differs widely between products, even between flavors of gum, so have the item, how much was eaten, and your dog's weight ready.
Gum and food are most common. The ASPCA also lists xylitol in baby wipes, sunscreen, makeup, lip balm, toothpaste, dental floss, mouthwash, breath mints, and other personal items.
Check labels when you bring something new home. Keep products with xylitol where your dog cannot reach them, and keep purses and backpacks off the floor. Do not leave your dog alone with a bag.
If your dog shows weakness, shaking, or collapse, go to an emergency vet now.
This article is general education, not veterinary advice. If your dog seems unwell, is in pain, or something changed suddenly, call your vet. If it could be an emergency, do not wait.
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