Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar substitute. With so many people on low sugar diets xylitol is becoming more and more common in processed foods. Can your dog have xylitol? 

No, your dog can not. Xylitol is toxic to dogs. Xylitol is sugar alcohol. 

Even small amounts of xylitol can cause liver failure, hypoglycemia, seizures, and death. 

When humans eat xylitol the pancreas does have a response. When dogs eat it, the pancreas responds the way it would to sugar. Which in turn drops your dog’s blood sugar levels dangerously. The hypoglycemia it causes can be life threatening. It often requires immediate medical attention. 

Signs of xylitol poisoning include:

• Vomiting
• Seizure
• Weakness
• Difficulty walking
• Tremors
• Coma

If you suspect your dog has ingested xylitol contact a vet immediately.