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Can Dogs Eat Chewing Gum?
Do not give chewing gum to dogs.
Is chewing gum safe for dogs?
Chewing gum and mints are small, but many sugar-free varieties are sweetened with xylitol, one of the most dangerous common foods for pets. Many sugar-free gums and mints are sweetened with xylitol, which causes a dangerous drop in blood sugar and can lead to liver failure in dogs, sometimes from a single piece.
What to do instead
- Keep purses, bags and pockets with gum or mints zipped and out of reach
- Check the label for xylitol (sometimes listed as birch sugar) on any gum, mints or candy in the house
- If your dog ate any gum or mints, call your vet or a poison hotline right away, even if it seems like a small amount
- Choose a treat made for dogs instead
What to avoid
- Sugar-free gum and mints containing xylitol
- Any dropped gum, including on walks or under tables
- Xylitol-sweetened candy, baked goods and some peanut butters
How much chewing gum can my dog have?
There is no amount of chewing gum that we can recommend for dogs. Skip it entirely.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Important: Xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar within 30 to 60 minutes, with vomiting, weakness, wobbliness and seizures, followed by possible liver failure a day or so later. This is a true emergency, so call your vet or a poison hotline immediately, even before symptoms appear.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat chewing gum?
No. Chewing gum should not be given to dogs of any age.
What should I do if my dog ate chewing gum?
Call your vet or an animal poison hotline right away, even if your dog seems fine. Tell them what was eaten, roughly how much, when, and your dog's weight. Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Is there a safe amount of chewing gum for my dog?
There is no amount of chewing gum that we can recommend, and some dogs react to very small amounts. It is best not to give any.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Chewing Gum?