Oh No! My Dog Just Ate My Chewing Gum!

Add gum and mints to your list of foods that can harm a dog!

Many dog owners know that chocolate and raisins are toxic to dogs. Unfortunately, it’s much less well known that foods sweetened with xylitol (zahy-li tol) instead of sugar can be just as toxic if ingested by a dog. Over the last few years, more and more food products are being made with xylitol because it’s “natural” and can be consumed by people with diabetes. It’s most commonly used in gum and mints, but can also be used to make baked goods.

In dogs, xylitol triggers a sudden, large release of insulin into their circulation, which causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia, can cause vomiting, unsteadiness, lethargy, seizures and even death. With xylitol poisoning, severe liver damage or liver failure can result. The timing for these signs to begin is variable, but often the initial hypoglycemia occurs within 20-30 minutes.Most cases of xylitol toxicity we see at the clinic are because a curious dog followed his nose and found a pack of gum or mints in a purse or coat pocket. Spread the word!

If you discover your dog has eaten gum or another food sweetened with xylitol, call the clinic right away.