Xylitol Toxicity Calculator for Dogs

Hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar) occurs at doses of 50-100 mg of xylitol per kilogram of body weight, and liver damage occurs at doses above 500 mg/kg. Because some sugar-free gums contain 1 gram (1000 mg) or more of xylitol per piece, a single piece can be dangerous for a small dog. Xylitol is roughly 100 times more toxic to dogs than chocolate on a per-gram basis — always treat ingestion as a potential emergency.

Xylitol is found in sugar-free gum, mints, peanut butter, baked goods, toothpaste, mouthwash, some vitamin gummies, and sugar-free desserts. It can also appear in chewable supplements, melatonin gummies, and even some skin creams. Importantly, xylitol is also labeled as "birch sugar" on ingredient lists — always check for both names. If you share any human food (especially peanut butter) with your dog, verify the label every time you buy a new jar.

Symptoms develop rapidly — usually within 10-60 minutes of ingestion. Early signs of hypoglycemia include vomiting, weakness, stumbling or uncoordinated movement, tremors, and seizures. Liver failure signs may appear 12-48 hours later and include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes/gums), bruising, lethargy, and clotting problems. If hypoglycemia signs appear while en route to the vet, rub honey or corn syrup onto your dog's gums to rapidly raise blood sugar — this can be life-saving while you travel.